Having My Ex's Baby After Divorce

By Dalianegra

Prince, after discovering that his partner had cheated on him, divorced without any hesitation, taking it for granted that the love the Alpha had sworn to him had evaporated, since he doesn't object to signing the divorce and leaves. Two months later, he finds out he's pregnant and months later the Alpha learns that he is a father, causing a lot of situations to start happening between them.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Noveltoon
• Release date: Mar 6, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224313280

Book preview

When the Roses Wither

Chapter 1

Alright, here are the divorce papers. I need you to sign here and here.

Prince stood up to grab a pen and quickly signed to get everything over with, as his only wish was to stop seeing the egotistical, dark, black-haired, and strong Alpha's face.

Having done so, he returned to his seat and the Alpha rose to do the same. His hand didn't shake at all, and after placing the pen aside, he shot a brief glance at the Omega to see him with arms crossed, a serious face, and looking away—a clear sign that he wanted nothing to do with him, not even in pictures, let alone in his dreams. Knowing him well, he was aware that the Omega often behaved whimsically, gave too many orders, and always wanted control, which he was sure had exhausted him and had been the reason for the deceit.

The man seated at the head of the table cleared his throat because the tension was thick enough to cut with a knife, and he was afraid to say something, lest they both lash out at him.

Good, he whispered with a smile, but neither of them even glanced his way. In the next few days, you will receive your documents officially declaring your divorce. However, as you married without a prenuptial agreement, so...

I want nothing from him, the Omega spoke firmly. I have all I want and can have more. Let all used things be given to the other; I like being charitable from time to time.

The man swallowed, unsure how Prince could be so bold to speak to him that way without breaking eye contact or faltering.

Okay, he said, laughing nervously and loosening his tie a little, but I'm afraid it's the law, and so you must decide who keeps the house, two of the four cars, the southern cabin, and fifty percent of the bank's contents. Additionally, I must remind you, Mr. Maiston, that you transferred one of the Delta Hotels into your spouse's name.

What a pity, it's too much for him; he'll never manage, Maiston teased, looking at Prince with a smirk.

Just like you couldn't manage your one-night entanglements.

The man swallowed again, sensing they were almost ready to fight right over him.

Alright, then the Nissan and Chevrolet will belong to you, young Prince, is that acceptable?

No, I want the Camaro and the Ferrari.

I like those, Maiston interjected.

Too bad. You never asked if you could sleep with someone else, so I don't plan to ask or consider any of your objections. I want those, end of story, Prince said, turning to the man.

The man simply nodded.

I have to leave. Should any issues arise, my lawyer will handle them. I have a hotel to take care of.

No, wait, young Prince, you need to hear what I'm about to read no...

Watching him leave through the door, the man sighed, having never been assigned a divorce as difficult as theirs. Whenever he saw them, he could only imagine one of them ending up dead with a knife stuck in their neck.

Fine, I'll read it to your lawyer then, he announced, looking at the man who had sat by his side the entire time, as well as Maiston's lawyer.

The Alpha lingered for a moment longer before simply departing.

Arriving at the hotel where he was staying, Prince sighed, feeling tired. He thought about turning on the TV for a distraction but regretted it instantly, as the news was only discussing his divorce. Both were powerful individuals with their own businesses, investments, and recognition, making it impossible for their names not to be splashed across magazine covers and newspapers.

Maiston was renowned for his oil companies that shipped worldwide. His company, Infinite Petroleum, was number one and favored by all its clientele. His grandfather had started the business many years ago, which was passed down to his father and eventually to his name when his father died ten years ago. The company had topped the industry rankings for thirty consecutive years. In addition to oil, he also had experience in hospitality, owning Delta Hotels across the city and in three different countries. At thirty, he was a respectable man, except for the scandal of his infidelity to his now ex-spouse.

Prince owned a clothing brand: Unicx, with stores in ten different countries where his garments were bestsellers. He designed clothing that the finest tailors and seamstresses in the world crafted. His clothing line was mostly cotton and available in sizes for all. He also had a high-end, sought-after lingerie line under the same name. At only twenty-five, he held a tremendous amount of power in the palm of his hand. His name, like Maiston's, had been at the top for five straight years.

Neither could criticize the other, as both boasted wealth, fame, power, and their own accomplishments.

So, two months passed after the separation when Prince had spent a week feeling unwell. It didn't matter whether he ate or not; nausea struck him incessantly, and dizziness even kept him from working properly. He had to present a new clothing line by the end of the month, and his ailments were thwarting his progress.

Just like I told you on the phone, doctor, I'm quite tired and I haven't done much exertion.

The man in the white coat nodded as he typed on the computer, noting down the symptoms.

Is there a particular food, or is it with everything?

With everything, especially if I smell chicken. I can't stand it, he said, feeling queasy at the mere thought.

Alright, lie down on the exam table so we can take a look. Any part of the abdomen causing discomfort?

Prince shook his head; it wasn't pain but revulsion towards food and ceaseless dizziness.

The doctor touched his abdomen a bit, checking for certain things and considering others because his stomach was hard. After the examination, he took notes on a piece of paper and asked:

How's your heat cycle?

Normal. The last one was three months ago.

Did you spend it with your partner?

Oh, yes, he said, reluctantly, the recollection stirring up an even stronger urge to vomit. With that bastard.

He muttered the last words under his breath, but the doctor heard him loud and clear.

I'm not sure, but you might be in the early stages of pregnancy. I'll send you to the midwife to get everything confirmed.

Prince looked at him and grabbed the paper to stand up, only to have everything go dark, blur, and fall into eternal silence.

Chapter 2

Prince opened his eyes slowly, believing that it had all been just a nightmare. He intended to make himself comfortable to continue sleeping soundly when he noticed the bed was too hard, cold, and foreign, while his own was warm, soft, and perfect.

He heard footsteps and stayed still, looking around and seeing everything as foreign to his room. Then he jolted upright.

Take it easy, move carefully, a nurse suggested.

He stared at her because he had never seen her before and was afraid to ask questions. Nevertheless, he asked:

What happened to me?

You fainted and were unconscious for two hours. You need to make movements slowly. Dizziness during pregnancy is complicated and…

He stopped hearing her as everything began to spin again and darkness returned. When he reopened his eyes, blinking a few times, he swallowed and brought his hand to his aching head. He let out a groan and heard a male voice.

Are you alright?

Please tell me it was just a dream, he pleaded because he could not be pregnant.

He completely refused to accept being pregnant in a situation like this. He thought he was about to touch fame, only for a baby to complicate everything, especially when he had been divorced for two months without having exchanged a single word with his ex-husband, the dark-haired man.

He sat on the bed, releasing a sigh.

Well, I'd like to say I'm good at making jokes, but that would be lying. You're definitely pregnant, the doctor said, showing him a paper that confirmed it.

How did this all happen?

Well, as you know, when two people love each other, they often show their love by…

I know how it happened! he exclaimed, looking angrily at the doctor, who recoiled.

Of course, that's why I said you know.

Everything was fine, he mumbled to himself. How am I supposed to get out of this?

It's best that you go home and rest. You have an appointment scheduled for tomorrow where you'll find out how many months along you are, but, from what you've told me, it should be around two.

He did not want to move and wished he could stay on that gurney forever, feeling miserable. He had avoided thinking about that Alpha for the two months that had passed and felt that he had been managing quite well. Now he realized that, in addition to having left him cheated on, with his reputation tainted and watching as thousands of people talked about the infidelity, he had also left him pregnant.

He left the hospital and put on sunglasses and a cap to cover his brown hair. The last thing he wanted was for a paparazzo to see him and start rumors.

He got into the car, staring ahead and thinking about where to go and who he could tell everything that was happening to him. He closed his eyes to think about the last time they were together because he was certain they had used protection. His certainty started at a hundred percent then dropped to ninety, then eighty-five, to seventy, forty, and finally, he was left with a ten percent certainty.

And he wanted to cry because he could not be pregnant when he had so many plans to achieve. Frustration overwhelmed him, and he closed his eyes, thinking about how he was going to be alone. He would have his mother and his best friend, but he would still be without that person who made him feel safe.

He felt stupid after a few seconds and just turned on the car.

He drove to the city center, leaving the car parked on the curb. He got out, covering his face and looked both ways before crossing the street, as the last thing he desired was to be run over as an addendum to everything happening in his life.

He saw a florist shop named:

Love Roses.

Upon opening the door, he saw a chestnut-haired woman arranging roses. He saw some gray hairs in her hair that hung down her back. Her hands touched the roses gently, and she lifted her gaze to see her son entering. She smiled because she had just been thinking about him. She walked over to hug him and caress his cheeks tenderly.

Darling, I was just thinking of you, she murmured happily until she noticed his face.

He removed his sunglasses to reveal his red and swollen eyes from crying.

What happened, Prince?

Mom, can we talk?

The woman nodded without hesitation and hurried to change the open sign to closed. They walked to the back to sit down, and she noticed he looked worried and pale. She did not know what was happening, but it was clear he was not taking the separation well. He was usually strong, independent, and happy, but she knew him too well to recognize it was a facade.

He had not hesitated to leave the Alpha after finding out about the infidelity from the news and the papers. Still, this did not mean that his love for him had disappeared from one moment to the next with a snap of the fingers.

What's happening, my prince?

He looked at his mom and let out a long sigh before saying:

I'm pregnant, mom.

She wanted to be happy because that was the reaction she would have had at any other time. She had no other children and had always wanted to be a grandmother, but she could see in Prince's face that he was not happy but scared. She wanted to say something, but nothing came to mind because she did not know what to say at a moment like this.

Oh, honey…

What am I going to do? he asked, and his tears started falling down his cheeks again.

Don't worry, my prince. You know I'm always with you. We are an unstoppable duo.

She caressed his cheeks, drying those tears, and moved closer to embrace him. He clung to her because his mind was in turmoil. He knew that pregnancy was complicated, but everything was easier when you were with that special person, and he did not have them. He closed his eyes tightly, and his mother's caresses on his back were more than perfect because they eased his anguish a lot.

She tried to think of a way to help him and let him know he was never alone, but it was difficult when going through situations like his son's. She felt sad and closed her eyes, feeling her body almost trembling. She did not like to see him like this and wanted to absorb all his fear and give him all her strength.

When she moved away, she took a handkerchief to dry his tears and gave him a smile, hoping he would feel better.

She knew that pregnancy was not as simple as adding one plus one and that being alone naturally made everything much more complicated. She had her partner by her side and even though they were both Betas, companionship during pregnancy was crucial.

I'm scared. I thought everything was fine, I felt pain inside, but I assumed it was all calming down, and now I find out about this. What am I supposed to do now?

She took his cheeks.

Listen, dear, you must not be afraid because I know you very well, and I know you're strong. What does it matter if you don't have that second-rate Alpha by your side? You're not losing anything because he has lost everything.

But he has someone now, and I have no one, he murmured.

Nobody? You have me, you have your best friend, and more.

Prince closed his eyes and let out a sigh.

I don't want to…

No, don't say that, Prince. Don't say you want to get rid of that baby.

She could see desperation in his face, in his green eyes.

I'll be alone, mom, what do you want me to do?

Fight. You're strong and you've achieved thousands of things. You have your father's intelligence and much of my determined character. Did you need anyone to become famous? Did you need anyone to learn drawing? You've achieved everything alone, and that Alpha was a fool. Listen, I can't force you to keep it, but you need to think about your ability to handle many things.

Prince became pensive upon hearing those words. He knew they were not bonded and there was no mark between them that tied him to Maiston. He knew the decisions about the marriage had been hasty and imagined, just like every previous day, that Maiston had never loved or even wanted him, and that he was the only one who had felt anything.

He wanted to hold his head high, free his mind from bad thoughts, and stand up.

He knew that time would continue to move forward and that his body was going to change. Things were going to become known, and news would spread everywhere that he could not stop. One thought dominated his mind: he did not want Maiston to know.

He took a deep breath and dried his cheeks, looking at the woman in front of him, letting him know she would always be by his side no matter what. And he felt that was enough and smiled.

So, are we together?

Of course, my prince, she confirmed with a smile. We were an unstoppable trio with your father, but now we are an unstoppable duo.

What will I do when it shows? I don't want Maiston to know anything.

Of course not, you have no need to ask him for anything, not even in his dreams. You have enough money to be a single mother without any fear or lack of the basics.

He smiled, knowing it was true, but he had never prepared for a situation like this. No one prepares to be a parent, and it often happens that babies come out of nowhere.

He looked down at his stomach, which still showed no sign, but that was going to change because someone was there. His thoughts of aborting had dominated his mind, but he realized that, even if he had been poor, he would not have been capable of ending a small, pure, and innocent life in light of everything that was happening. He was not happy, he was sad about many things, his heart was not at a hundred percent, and most of his wounds were fresh and hurt him daily.

He tried to breathe deeply a couple of times and hugged his mom again.

I miss dad; if he were here, everything would be simpler, wouldn't it?

Of course, my dear, but as long as we are happy and together, then he will be happy as well. We've always helped each other in everything, so there's nothing we can't do. You know I'll help you with everything, and you have a friend who will help you with everything, too.

Tomorrow I have an appointment with a midwife. I don't want to go alone.

Then we'll both be there, she assured him with a smile. We'll see how this little baby is doing.

Prince stood up, and they were the same height.

I have to deliver a new clothing line by the end of the month. I need to be able to concentrate and find something that inspires me. I have almost everything ready, but I still need some pieces.

Don't worry, darling, you always find a way to get inspired. You have the most beautiful and vibrant clothes of all. That's why you've been on the fashion runway so many times.

Okay, he said, taking one of the roses that were there to smell them and smiled because it always made him feel better. Just seeing a rose brightened his days. I have to go. I have some meetings and more, but tomorrow I will pick you up with my chauffeur at home at nine.

She nodded and watched him leave. She let out a sigh and knew that her son was strong and hoped he would remain that way.

Prince got into the car. He didn't think any further and just turned on the car to start moving down the road until he reached his workplace. It was where he spent most of his time making sure everything was in order. There were other managers, but he was the boss of everyone. He always wished for the clothes to be created with delicacy and love, so he checked everything thoroughly. The stores where the clothes were presented were all Unicx, but where they were created was at a clothing factory called Unisex Equation. It was not so close to the city center, but it was recognized worldwide and the entrances were always guarded by security personnel where only authorized personnel could enter.

Chapter 3

The oil industry encompasses global processes of exploration, extraction, refining, transportation typically by oil tankers and pipelines, and the marketing of petroleum products. The highest volume products of the industry are fuel oil and gasoline. Petroleum is also the raw material for many chemical products, including pharmaceuticals, solvents, fertilizers, pesticides, and plastics.

There are typically three main divisions within the oil industry:

\Upstream: Exploration, extraction, and production.

\Midstream: Transportation, processing, and storage.

\Downstream: Refining, selling, and distribution.

Oil is an essential commodity for many industries, and it is vitally important for the sustenance of industrialized civilization, making it a critical industry in most nations. Maiston spent a lot of time drilling these facts into his mind. From an early age, he had watched his grandfather and later his father handle great responsibilities. Both had discussed with him what their work meant, including its advantages and disadvantages. Nevertheless, they always clung to the benefits, disregarding the drawbacks because they avoided them at all costs.

Their industry never faced downturns; it just kept soaring upward, raking in significant profits. Its distributions were on a grand scale, and sales were shooting higher every day.

The three phases were the first things he learned at the age of ten, and he delighted in them. He always enjoyed learning everything because he admired his grandfather and father. He had been a kind and decent boy for most of his life. Elementary school, high school, and college were a breeze for an alpha like him because he'd never had to repeat a year and always secured top marks.

For him, everything was simple and boiled down to the well-being of his family, power, and wealth. In a nutshell, he was the type of person who believed that money equated to happiness and that with money, one could have anything without much trouble.

He knew many things because knowledge was paramount to him. Having a mind brimming with information about even the smallest details was of the utmost importance. An intelligent person meant everything to him, someone who could hold their ground with sound arguments and didn't need to resort to insulting others to win was someone who would undoubtedly earn his respect.

However, there came a point where being smart and wealthy lost its importance. He had been used to obtaining everything with money, but one day that changed. Upon meeting a particular omega with brown hair, green eyes, and pale skin, his life became more complicated than ever. The omega was beautiful and vain. Controlling and seductive. Intelligent and sweet.

It wasn't necessary to impress him with expensive gifts, as he could afford anything on his own. For the first time, he had met someone who wasn't dazzled by wealth because they had their own substantial fortune, albeit slightly less than his. Winning over Prince had taken months of effort, five months to be exact, whereas others Omegas would have been in his bed within a week.

He couldn't quite recall all he had done for him, but what he did remember left him tired and exhausted. He had been convinced that he loved him, which was why he went through with the marriage. As time went on, he realized things weren't as he had imagined.

Prince wasn't simple and didn't behave like all the other omegas because he demanded respect, equality, freedom of speech, and everything to be in control, orderly, and extremely clean.

While reading a newspaper, which included an article about a parade scheduled for the end of the month, he sighed.

Just reading his name or seeing his face gave him a headache. He ran his hands through his hair, feeling free after such a long time. He had always thought the omega exerted too much control over him, sending him around like a mere dog, or at least that's how he saw it. There was a meeting in a few minutes, but he found it strange that for months now, he hadn't been featured in any photos or interviews. Just his name and some old photos. It had been five months since the divorce, and it seemed even more peculiar that he had never called or sent any messages to annoy him.

He looked up as the door opened.

Come on, Maiston, you've got the meeting with the people from France. Don't dawdle because then they'll start insulting us in French, and I'll get the urge to insult them back. Get your ass up quickly.

He nodded, aware of this, but didn't immediately rise to his feet as he was intensely focused on something else.

What's the matter? You look odd, the Alpha inquired.

They had been friends from childhood, attended the same elementary and high school, and university, so they knew each other's darkest and most embarrassing secrets. They were the same age, but his friend had fairer skin. Theirs was a childhood marked by numerous pranks played together and rescuing each other from trouble.

Nothing, Jim, just looking at a magazine featuring the richest celebrities of late. And when they mention Prince, there's an old photograph.

His friend chuckled.

Who cares?

Maiston knew it mattered little whether it was an old photo or a new one, yet the issue arose because he knew the omega well enough to understand his aversion to repetitive photos being published. It was something that irked him and soured his mood.

It seems you're still worried when all you wanted was to be free to be with the omega you found. What are you going to buy him today? A helicopter so he can't get away?

I don't know what you're referring to, he said, standing up.

You'll learn the hard way that people can't be bought with money or material things.

He ignored his friend and they left the main office to head to the conference room. It wasn't a long walk, just down the hall. The automatic doors swayed open, and they entered, adjusting their ties.

There weren't many people; with the two of them, there were six. They had been discussing investments and more for some time and were only two meetings away from finalizing a deal that would yield greater expansion and more profits. Maiston took the head of the table, his friend to his right, while the others were silent after exchanging greetings.

They waited as the brunette looked over some papers that had been distributed to everyone. These included some expenditure reports, documents for signature, and other items he set aside to review later as there was no urgency.

Alors commençons la reunion, he announced, looking ahead, and everyone nodded in agreement.

Comme stipule, ces secteurs de vente, one of the men said, rising to walk to the projection screen.

The presentation was educational and straightforward to grasp, so they each nodded in acknowledgment of both the positive aspects and the few negatives. Maiston nodded, passing some papers to his friend to look at meanwhile.

La chute de ces secteurs ne nous concerne pas, Jim stated with an authoritative voice; he was the enterprise's vice president and in Maiston's absence, often took charge — C'etait un pour cent, ce qui n'est rien pour nous, messieurs. Nous gagnons un milliard de pesos chaque mois, un million de pesos perdus est quelque chose d'insignifiant pour l'entreprise.

We do not wish to lose a single peso, one of them warned, looking at Maiston sternly.

The man merely nodded, accepting some papers handed to him.

Sur cette feuille, que je veux que tout le monde voie, vous pouvez verifier les gains de cette semaine. Les niveaux ne font que monter. Ne pensez pas que nous faisons affaire avec n'importe qui. Je prends toujours le temps de voir combien vaut l'entreprise avant tout et combien d'actions elle possede, he explained calmly, being quite used to striking deals with various parties.

A hush fell as the men inspected the documents and conferred among themselves. Jim and Maiston shared a knowing smile, confident of securing a new contract that would only increase their wealth.

After verifying everything, the men stood up at the meeting's conclusion, scheduling another for the following week. They shook hands and departed. The alphas exchanged a high-five and headed back to Maiston's office to relax, appearing as if they carried not a single care on their shoulders and had their whole lives sorted out.

Did you see the looks on their faces? I'm sure they've never seen so many zeros in their damned lives, Jim remarked with a laugh.

Don't get too excited; we still have two meetings to go.

Maiston, those guys aren't fools, they won't say no, not even in their dreams.

He remained silent, seating himself in his chair, looking over a few more documents before passing them to his secretary to be sorted.

Minutes later, Jim headed to his office to carry on with his duties and Maiston was left alone. He was reviewing some matters on the computer, his neck aching, but it was the last task before moving on to other issues that demanded his presence. Glancing at the corner of his desk, he saw the magazine he had been perusing hours earlier.

His gaze settled on Prince's old photograph, recognizing it from a year ago. He involuntarily picked up the magazine once more, examining Prince's visage.

Narrowing his eyes, something didn't add up for him. It was incomprehensible that the omega would consent to the use of an outdated image when he knew how much that irked him. He swallowed hard and his phone began to vibrate, displaying the name of the new omega with whom he had engaged post-divorce. Smiling, he picked up the phone, believing this one to be his ideal match.

They agreed to have dinner that night, which pleased him. He couldn't remember the last time he had dined with Prince, but he knew most of their dinners had ended dismally.

Being as renowned as him, paparazzi were always lurking, never allowing them any peace. Sometimes he wondered if that had also contributed to his exhaustion, their near absence of privacy.

Chapter 4

For Prince, the days were not hard. He had been working exclusively from home, using the pretext that he was suffering from a highly infectious and potentially deadly virus.

His best friend and his mother took care of picking up and delivering everything he requested.

And he was tired. Six months had passed, and the terrifying thought of the baby's imminent birth troubled him; he would have no one by his side. He stared out the window as the sun set. The days were, in a way, simple; it was the nights that caused him distress. The bed was large, too large for him alone, and despite his reluctance, there were still traces of the one he had shared it with. What angered him most, though, was that he missed them, felt alone, and lacked someone to embrace him and make him feel secure.

His mother's hugs and his friend's kind words were insufficient. He moved to get into bed, and sometimes he felt fear, panicking, thinking he was in danger, and he was terrified of moving from the bed.

These feelings filled him with anger and made him want to scream, yet he did nothing. He didn't want to feel this way because he knew that Maiston was living a much happier life. Magazines and television spoke of new ventures with France. He didn't want to feel happy about it, but he did anyway, and that just fueled his rage.

He shifted in bed and reached out to grab a jacket. Maiston hadn't taken all his things, and although he had flung them at him in anger, he felt relieved that some items had been left behind because they were the only things that brought him tranquility and a bit of peace during the long nights.

He placed his hands on his large belly, knowing he needed to think of a name, but nothing came to mind. He had never been good at naming his dogs or even the goldfish of his childhood.

He closed his eyes, trying to think of something beautiful. A special name because it was going to be a girl.

He thought about the stars, the moon, the sun, and he wanted something simple, short, and unforgettable. Then he remembered the constellations that Maiston would sometimes talk about. He knew that, despite being happy in that company and carrying out all those tasks, Maiston had once aspired to study astronomy. He enjoyed it when Maiston spoke about it because it made for lovely stories.

Tears filled his eyes. He hated these memories. He hated these beautiful memories because they destroyed him. His heart was small, and it ached every time he thought about that Alpha.

He brought the piece of clothing to his nose, feeling the nearly extinct scent of coffee that belonged to his pheromones. He liked that scent; it wasn't strong, but it was perfect for him. And he wished he had him there, clutching the garment to his chest, and he cried in silence. Because at night he broke down, crumbled, and sobbed, but by day he appeared decisive and capable of anything.

Hi, hi, I'm here, someone said, opening the door. It was his best friend: Taylor, who walked in, smiling and cheerful as always.

Prince watched as Taylor came in with bags of food and smiled as he approached him. They talked happily because they cared for each other and had been friends for a long time. Taylor was a kind and funny guy, so they always enjoyed a good laugh. He was never angry or upset with anyone. He had never seen him argue or insult anyone, and he had never left him alone.

He was simple, hardworking, kind, amusing, and flirtatious when he liked someone. As a Beta, he attracted a lot of attention due to his visible attractiveness and modeling career. His black curly hair was popular with both guys and girls, and that was why he'd had many girlfriends and boyfriends. His brown eyes sparkled beautifully in the sunlight.

Here, I have sweet rolls with manjar and jams, just how you like them.

Prince smiled, taking the bag and savoring the fragrant delicacies.

You shouldn't eat too much, or you'll keep gaining weight. You're almost size eighty, Taylor joked as he sat down.

Under other circumstances, Prince might have responded, but he was too delighted with the taste of the treats. He sat on the couch, relishing each bite and making sounds that demonstrated his craving.

Did you finish the patterns? Taylor asked, watching him eat joyfully.

Yeah, they're over there on the table.

Taylor walked over to inspect the sheets. He wasn't knowledgeable about drawings; modeling was his forte. He was one of the key models featured in Prince's apparel collections, but he did know that his friend always created amazing things.

He looked over them until he came to a sheet at the end. Taking it in his hands, he saw clothing, like on the other sheets, but from different perspectives. It was clearly infant clothing, tiny and dainty. He said nothing for a few seconds, never having seen such designs from Prince, who usually produced seductive lingerie and daring, exotic attire. What he was seeing now was tender, sweet, and beautiful.

He looked back at his friend who was nearly choked up with the abundance of food. He knew Prince was not having an easy time and would sometimes stay with him overnight just to hear him cry.

And he wanted to help. That's what they always did for each other because, more than friends, they loved each other like brothers. They had been through a lot together, including a time when they dated, but they realized how foolish that was and that they were projecting feelings where there were none. They decided to erase that episode from their lives because they were friends and that was all that mattered.

He approached Prince, watching him finish off everything he had bought. He was no longer surprised because it was typical for Prince to devour everything as soon as he received it.

What's this?

Prince glanced in his direction to see what Taylor was holding.

Uh... it's baby clothes, he answered the obvious.

I can see it's baby clothes, but what do you plan to do with them? Are you thinking of launching a new clothing line for babies or something?

I don't know, murmured the Omega. I just realized I'll have to buy clothes for the baby. I always wear my own designs, mom does too, and you as well. But then I realized there's no baby line in my stores.

Do you want to sell them?

He nodded.

Yes, I want the baby to wear nice clothes.

Don't you think it'll be odd? Anyone who knows will immediately wonder why, and you don't want Maiston to find out, Taylor reminded him.

Prince processed his words, noting his friend's point.

He looked at him for a few seconds, his brown eyes wide but always kind, offering him the confidence to speak freely because he knew he had his trust and, above all, his affection.

He swallowed what was in his mouth and lowered his gaze for a moment.

Well, I hadn't really thought about that.

I'm not saying it's wrong, Prince, but people will start to talk when they see you suddenly have baby clothes when your usual designs are extravagant, daring, and exotic.

He let out a sigh, feeling his appetite vanish. So many things were going to happen. He could no longer remain concealed forever because speculation never stopped. Nor could he keep pretending to be afflicted by various viruses because everyone would assume he was on the verge of death. He found no way to silence all the press or to make the paparazzi leave the apartment he was staying in. He hadn't even visited the house registered in his name, nor had he taken the time to manage the hotel.

He wanted to do everything right so Maiston would see that he was as capable as ever and that Maiston's company didn't matter to him, but it wasn't going well because while he was pregnant and hidden, he saw on the news and everywhere that Maiston was enjoying life elsewhere with that new Omega.

And that was enough to make him sad.

Taylor didn't know what to do when he saw Prince cry. He didn't know if he had blurted out something stupid again or what.

Prince, don't cry, what's wrong now? I promise not to mention again that you're fat or that you look like a pig or a whale.

Hearing that, Prince felt an even stronger urge to cry.

Hey, don't cry, okay? Don't think about sad stuff, just keep enjoying the rolls you love. If you want more, I'll go buy it or tell Mrs. Sarah to come over. Should I call her?

He passed a handkerchief gently over Prince's cheeks and listened to him sob. With a nod, Taylor stood up to dial his mom's number on his phone. She arrived quickly, always attentive to her son and ready to leave everything to see him at a moment's notice.

I'm here, darling, what's going on?

She hugged him and arranged his hair behind his ear, looking closely to understand what had made him cry.

Taylor said I look like a pig.

I didn't say that, Taylor defended himself, distancing himself just in time to avoid a hit with a handbag.

I've told you not to say such things to him, Taylor.

I'm sorry! What's in her bag? Rocks? he asked while rubbing the shoulder where the bag had forcefully struck.

You don't want to find out, young man. Come on, my prince, let's get you some rest. It's nearly four in the afternoon, and you've been working hard. Remember what the doctor said about resting because of your back pain. Is everything ready? I can take care of it so you don't have to worry about anything. Taylor! Please take this if you're leaving.

Hey, you said you'd take it. Why offer and then delegate the task, Mrs. Sarah?

He groaned when another hit from the bag landed and then silently took the stuff to leave it where it belonged.

Baby clothes? That sounds wonderful! he exclaimed with a smile.

Taylor said I should think it over because it will lead to questions.

The mother wanted to tell her son that, as many times before, his friend was just talking nonsense, but that wasn't true; Taylor had a point.

Well, he's not lying. You know how people are; they'll want to find out why. They're always trying to figure out what's happening with you, and hardly anyone believes the temporary virus story anymore. They're even talking about a mutated virus now.

Prince smiled at that nonsense and couldn't help but think of zombies.

But, I want to do it. I want my baby to have many beautiful clothes just for her.

The mother smiled, knowing that although Prince had initially wanted to rid himself of the baby, now he was eagerly anticipating its arrival, albeit with a hint of fear about having to deal with the situation. She had everything prepared. For the birth, she would stay with her son for the first twelve months to assist him in every way.

Have you thought of a name?

She saw him nod with a smile.

I want to name her Cassiopeia. I'll tell Taylor later.

That's a beautiful name, and she'll surely be the prettiest baby of all, and I'll be the happiest grandmother in the world. Just a few months left, and you'll officially be a mother, and I'll be a grandmother. Don't worry; mom is here for you, and you're as strong as I am.

Chapter 5

Do you understand, darling? It's not complicated; just practice a bit with the doll, and you'll see that you'll get used to it.

Prince nodded and tried to put a diaper on a doll.

He had been attempting this for nearly an entire day, but he still found it challenging, and worst of all, it wouldn't be the same with the baby because it would be moving and possibly crying at the same time.

His mother watched him handle the doll with almost excessive care. She smiled and stroked his back before walking away. Only a week remained, so they were preparing everything in case the birth came early. They planned to go to the clinic at night, hoping there would be no one outside or waiting to start gossiping. They had a bag packed with clothes, and it was an entirely private clinic, so everything was accounted for, and all that was left was to act.

Once Prince accomplished the task, he looked at his phone and realized it had taken him ten minutes. He sighed with exhaustion. His stamina for standing that long was gone. It was just a baby, but it felt like he was carrying an extra ten kilos, and his back, shoulders, and feet ached. He figured that the baby was going to be big, perhaps too big for a girl. He wasn't surprised, given she was Maiston's daughter, and he stood at one-eighty-nine with a large, strong frame.

Just the thought of Maiston made him curse. He tried not to think of him, but it always happened. He told himself it was just the pregnancy and that it would all extinguish once the baby was born.

He closed his eyes while caressing his belly. He tried to plan how to get back to his pre-pregnancy weight, but he was sure it would be difficult. He was clear that he had eaten like a pig during the pregnancy, so he couldn't blame anyone but himself and the baby's constant cravings.

He checked his phone's calendar where he had marked the due date. He smiled, feeling happy. He thought about how he wasn't the only one. Many women were single mothers, and he, as a male Omega, wasn't the exception.

He wanted to do it well, to make many proud by proving that it didn't matter whether you were a woman or a man to be a mother because everyone had the strength for it. He carefully got up and walked over to some roses his mother had brought him from the florist. They were red, and he loved them. He felt that others didn't have the same aroma. White or pink roses were pretty, but he loved the red ones.

Do you want some? Dessert's ready.

He turned, nodding, received what was offered in a small dish, and tasted it—an exquisite flan. He savored the homemade caramel and closed his eyes, feeling like he was in paradise.

Savory foods didn't fare well with him, but sweets he adored and craved at all hours.

He sat at the table when his phone vibrated. He always received calls from the places he managed. He watched the phone screen show the manager's name and sighed.

Tell me, Angela.

Hello, boss, how are you doing with the virus?

I'm fine, close to recovery. What's up?

There's an issue with some fabrics. They didn't arrive in good condition and we'll need to request a refund.

Prince closed his eyes, sighed, the last thing he wanted to hear. He swallowed and ran a free hand through his hair.

Why weren't they checked? You're supposed to handle this, Angela. You've done it a thousand times.

I'm so sorry, I checked them and was sure they were fine, but now they've been taken out of inventory and we noticed the issues. It was an oversight and...

Of course, it was an oversight! he exclaimed. Refunds are problems we can't afford!

I'm very sorry…

You know the limit is six days, and it's been almost two weeks! The money won't be returned.

He paced while continuing the conversation, his mother trying to calm him from the background; the last thing he needed was stress or anger.

Prince, wait a bit, honey, and...

"No, mom, I won't