6. Negal

It was late, or rather early, since it was about two oclock in the morning, and the smart thing to do would be to head back to his cabin and go to sleep, but Negal was still buzzed from being around Margo most of the day and the two kisses they had shared.

Negal shook his head.

Hed bedded hundreds of females, goddesses, and those of created species, but here he was, excited about sharing two kisses with a female and counting himself lucky and blessed for the privilege.

If he went to his cabin right now, he knew what he would be doing. He would get in the shower and repeat what he had done the day before. It wasnt a bad idea, and it would definitely ease some of the pressure building up inside of him, but it would also leave a bad taste in his mouth, and not because of his venom or the towel he would have to bite.

On some level, it was disrespectful to Margo.

Not that he would mind in the slightest if she pleasured herself while thinking about him. He would be the smuggest guy on this ship if she did. But he had a feeling she wouldnt, and therefore, he shouldnt either.

Besides, he needed to check on Karen.

He hadnt heard anything about how her transition was progressing, and since she wasnt young in human terms, the process was supposedly dangerous for her, and she might need a blood transfusion from him.

The question was how to do it without anyone knowing. Kian was adamant about keeping the power of a gods blood a secret, so it would have to be done in a way that wouldnt arouse suspicion.

Gilbert was no doubt sitting by his mates side, and Negal was sure that the guy wouldnt agree to leave her alone with him no matter what.

He could get into Gilberts mind and thrall him to forget that he was there, but then he would also need to do something about the security camera, and he wasnt an expert on that like Dagor.

Well, the obvious solution was to ask Dagor for help.

When he arrived at the clinic level, Negal was relieved to see Gilbert outside by the coffee machine.

He hadnt texted the guy to ask for permission to visit his mate, and knocking on her patients room in the middle of the night was not really appropriate for someone who wasnt an immediate family member.

Hearing his approaching footsteps, Gilbert turned to look at him. Negal. What brings you here?

Im worried about Karen. How is she doing?

Bridget says that shes doing fine. Shes sleeping, but shes conscious. I wake her up from time to time to make sure.

Thats good news. Negal took Gilberts place in front of the machine, put a cup under the nozzle, and pressed the button for an Americano. Do me a favor. He removed the paper cup and lifted it to his lips for a quick sip. Let me know if anything changes.

Gilbert nodded. I will. Thanks for checking up on Karen.

Negal smiled. For better or worse, Im in part responsible for what shes going through.

I know what you mean. Gilbert chuckled. When Karen gave birth to Idina and then to the twins, I felt guilty for getting her pregnant. It was absurd since we both wanted to have those children, and Karen didnt blame me, but I couldnt help it. He took a sip from his coffee. Nothing worth having comes without a struggle, though. So, there is that.

Negal understood what Gilbert was trying to say. With a few exceptions, thats mostly true. You didnt have to struggle to bring the children into the world like your mate did, but Im sure you faced other struggles while raising them.

Gilbert huffed out a laugh. They are a daily challenge but also the joy of my life.

I believe you. Negal clapped him on the back. Text me if Karens situation changes.

Gilbert frowned. I get it that you feel responsible, but what can you do for her if she gets worse? Youll just join me in worrying.

Not knowing will make me worry all of the time, but as long as I dont get a text from you, I will know that Karen is okay.