WHAT IF

CHAPTER 16

In the morning, Babe was the first to wake. He carefully slipped out of bed, making sure not to disturb Charlie, who was still peacefully asleep. He made his way to the bathroom, feeling the cool tiles under his feet. The soft light of dawn filtered through the window, casting a gentle glow in the room.

He got in the shower, letting the warm water wash over him, taking his time to enjoy the soothing sensation. After drying off and getting dressed, he headed to the kitchen to prepare breakfast for both of them. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon soon filled the air, adding a cozy warmth to the morning.

While busy at the stove, he felt arms wrap around him. A smile tugged at his lips as he said, 

"Morning."

Charlie nuzzled into his neck, breathing in his scent. "Morning, mama," he murmured softly. Babe chuckled softly, enjoying the warmth of Charlie's embrace. "Did you sleep well?" he asked, flipping a pancake on the stove.

"Better than ever," Charlie replied, tightening his hold for a moment before releasing him. "Anything I can help with?"

"Just keep me company," Babe said, glancing back with a smile. "Breakfast is almost ready."Charlie leaned against the counter, watching Babe expertly move around the kitchen. "I love mornings like this," he said, his voice filled with contentment. "Just the two of us, no worries, no interruptions."

Babe nodded, plating the pancakes. "Me too." He handed Charlie a plate, and they sat down at the small kitchen table, enjoying their breakfast and each other's company.

Midway through their breakfast, Babe suddenly remembered something important. His expression changed, and Charlie immediately noticed. "What's wrong?" Charlie asked, concern in his voice.

Babe put down the sandwich he was holding. "I just remembered something... or rather, someone," he began. "You see, back then, after everything happened... someone helped me get 

here."

Charlie leaned in, fully attentive. This was a sensitive topic for Babe, and Charlie knew how important it was to handle it with care. "Who helped you?" he asked gently.

Babe took a deep breath before continuing. "Back then, I didn't have money or my phone. A lady I met that day helped me. I want to visit her and thank her properly."

Charlie nodded, understanding the significance of this request. "Of course," he agreed immediately. he also needed to thank her for what he did for babe because if she didn't 

intervene they wouldn't be where they are right now. 

They finished their breakfast quickly, eager to find the lady. After clearing up the dishes, they got ready and set off to find her.

They took the train to their destination, and when they got off at the stop, Babe suggested they shouldn't go empty-handed. They found a store and picked out a thoughtful present. Babe led the way to the pharmacy, and as they walked, memories from that difficult night came flooding back. He recalled walking through the harsh wind in just a tank top, the relief he felt when he saw the lights of the pharmacy, and how the owner welcomed him with open arms, caring for 

him and providing the necessary help without asking for anything in return.

As they approached the pharmacy now, Babe felt a surge of emotion, but he stayed strong. The lady at the counter welcomed them with a professional smile. As they walked towards her, both Babe and Charlie greeted her with deep respect, bowing their heads.

At first, the woman looked surprised, but then recognition dawned on her face. "Oh, it's you! How have you been?" she asked with a warm smile.

Babe smiled back, though his eyes were a bit watery. "I've been better, thanks to you," he said sincerely. "I came back to thank you properly. You helped me back then, and I can never forget your kindness."

The woman looked touched. "I'm so glad to see you doing well. You don't have to thank me; it was the right thing to do."

Charlie stepped forward, holding out the gift. "We wanted to give you this as a token of our 

appreciation," he said.

The woman accepted the gift with a grateful smile. "Thank you so much. It's not necessary, but I 

appreciate it."

Babe and Charlie spent a few more moments talking with her, expressing their gratitude and 

sharing a bit about their journey since that night. 

"when you left I remembered that I didn't tell about..."the lady had started but babe stopped her " About me being being an omega...I was meant to find out later anyway so don't worry" But the lady still apologized.

Before they left, the lady took their hands in hers, her eyes filled with wisdom and warmth. "I'm so glad to see you both doing well," she said softly. "But remember, life is full of challenges. You must face them together, with love and understanding. Always communicate and support each other, no matter what comes your way."

She looked at Babe, her gaze gentle but firm. "And you, young man, have been through so much. Never forget your strength and resilience. Use it to help others who may be struggling as you did. Your experience can be a beacon of hope."

Turning to Charlie, she added, "And you, take care of him. Be his rock and his shelter. But also, let him take care of you. Relationships are about mutual support and growth."

They both nodded, absorbing her words. "Thank you," Babe said, his voice thick with emotion. 

Charlie squeezed the elderly lady's hand gently. "We'll take your words to heart. Thank you for 

everything."

With one last smile and a warm farewell, Babe and Charlie left the pharmacy, feeling lighter and more connected. 

When they stepped outside, Charlie noticed Babe's expression. He pursed his lips together, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. Seeing this, Charlie pulled him into a warm, tight hug, murmuring soft words of comfort as he patted his back. The tears Babe had been holding in came rushing out, streaming down his cheeks.

"It's okay, Babe," Charlie whispered, his voice soothing. "Let it out."Babe clung to Charlie, his body trembling with the force of his emotions. Charlie held him tighter, his own eyes misting over with empathy and love.

As the waves of emotion subsided, Babe took a deep breath and pulled back slightly, wiping his eyes. "Thank you, Charlie. For everything."

Charlie smiled, brushing a stray tear from Babe's cheek. "Always, Babe. Let's go home."