Carried Away

Chapter 7

His father sat up in bed, still weak but Rain doesn't fear for his life now. Although he has never been an affectionate man, now he holds Rain's hand and refuses to let go.

"You are really alive." the king says for what feels like the hundredth time.

Rain gives him a smile, "I really am."

"Your uncle said that you were dead and that it was...that it was my fault." His father chokes on the last part. "I know that I have never been a good father to you or your siblings, but I promise I never wanted you harmed."

"I know. Uncle Aran has been plotting everything from the beginning." Rain says, patting his hand. "Father, you should rest. You are still recovering. Phayu and Prapai will be back tonight and we will discuss what to do tomorrow."

"You like this Phayu? I have seen how you look at him." It feels strange discussing his love life with his father. Actually it feels strange discussing anything outside politics and the running of the country with his father. Even when Rain had been young he had been learning politics and diplomacy from his father. If he wanted to speak of private matters or had a hurt he needed to be healed that's what the servants had been there for.

He recognizes that his father is trying, even if it is awkward. "I do," Rain says. "Maybe more than like, maybe a lot more."

His father nods. "That's how I felt with your mother."

Rain's eyes go wide with shock. He has never once heard his father mention his mother. The servants didn't talk about her either. He only knew that she had died giving birth to Rain.

His father's other omegas had treated Rain kindly but like with his siblings closeness with them wasn't encouraged. It's the reason Sky had been his companion since they were children to alleviate Rain's loneliness from not having a family.

"What was she like?" Rain asks.

His father gives a fond smile and says, "A lot like you actually. Young and full of sunshine and kindness." Rain never realized his father saw him that way. "Also like you, she was kind and beloved by all the citizens."

"I wish I would have known her." Rain says.

"I wish you would have too." His father answers, "Maybe this would have been different if Artcha had lived."

Rain tries to imagine it. Perhaps the three of them would have been more of a family.

Rain sighs, it doesn't do much good to wonder about what might have been, he just hopes they can have a better relationship now.

Sky brings in porridge and the king's medicine. Rain helps his father to eat, then encourages him to sleep after he drinks the medicine.

Rain motions for Sky to follow him outside.

"Sky, the king seems so much different, could it be because of the witch's dream?" Rain asks. Rain likes the change in his father, but part of him is concerned that it just a sign that the king is still suffering from side effects from the drug his uncle gave him.

Sky considers, then says, "It's possible, but if you want my opinion, the king was affected by the thought of your death. It seems to have shaken him."

Rain decides to change the subject. "Do you think Phayu and Pai will be able to convince the council to help?"

The alphas had gone today to meet with the council, which Ple had helped set up. Rain reminds himself to give her and Som titles and a government position if they want it. Both have proven to be clever and invaluable.