Page 43 of Accidental Orc Daddy

"You need to keep up your strength for the little one," she says, her voice filled with concern. "You can't afford to get sick right now."

I know she's right, but I can’t make myself go along. My stomach is in knots and I can't imagine being able to eat anything.

Elora nods in agreement, placing a hand on my shoulder. "Your mother is right. You need to take care of yourself and the baby. Let us take care of you."

I hesitate for a moment, but then nod reluctantly. I know they're only trying to help, and I don't want to be a burden.

My mother and Elora jump right up to cook something for me, while my father walks me to the sofa. I sit down, feeling drained and exhausted. The past few hours have been a whirlwind of emotions, and I can barely think straight.

My father sits down next to me and takes my hand. "We're going to find him," he says, his voice filled with determination. "We'll do whatever it takes."

I nod, tears pricking at my eyes. I want to believe him, but I can't shake the fear that something terrible has happened to Mustaf.

My mother and Elora bring me a plate of food, but I can barely stomach the thought of eating. I force myself to take a few bites, knowing that I need to keep up my strength for the baby.

As I eat, my mind races with thoughts of Mustaf. I can't help but think of all the times we've spent together, all the happy memories we've shared. I can't believe that he might be gone forever.

I take a deep breath, trying to push those thoughts aside. I need to focus on the present and do whatever I can to help find Mustaf.

I finish my food and stand up, determined. "I'm going to go out and help with the search," I say, my voice steady.

"Absolutely not," Elora snaps, crossing her arms. "You're in no condition to go out there, Meiko. You need to stay here and rest."

"No!" I reply stubbornly. "I can't just sit here and do nothing. I have to help find Mustaf."

Seger tries to guide me back into the seat, chuckling when I refuse. "Just as stubborn as your fiance," he says with a shake of his head.

But I'm not in the mood for jokes. I can feel the tears welling up in my eyes again. "I love him," I say, my voice breaking. "I need him. I can't lose him."

My parents and Mustaf's parents exchange a worried glance. I can see the concern etched on their faces, but I don't care. I'm not backing down.

"Please let me go," I beg, my voice trembling.

"Meiko, no," my mother says, her voice firm. "You can't go out there. It's too dangerous for you and the baby."

I sit back down on the couch, feeling numb. I can't believe this is happening. I can't believe that Mustaf is missing and I’m helpless to do anything about it.

CHAPTER 25

Meiko

I sit hunched on the couch, exhaustion seeping into my bones. A brisk knock precedes Mustaf's mother sweeping into the room. She surveys my worn state with her typical mix of orcish bluntness and maternal care.

"Meiko, you must eat and rest properly," she admonishes. "You cannot let yourself waste away, not with my grandchild depending on you."

I look down at my lap. "I'm trying, but it's so hard not knowing if Mustaf..." My voice hitches with a sob.

She places a sturdy hand on my shoulder. "You underestimate my son's strength. He’ll come back to you, have faith." Her voice softens. "And know you are not alone in this."

I clutch her hand, taking comfort in its solid warmth. "Thank you," I whisper. "I just feel so helpless, sitting here waiting."

"I understand, child," she says gently. "But we’ll find him. The search parties are working tirelessly."

I nod, blinking back tears. "Has there been any news at all?"

She hesitates before answering. "They located the site of the avalanche. It was… extensive. But we must keep hope alive that Mustaf survived."

My heart constricts at her words. I know she's being realistic yet kind.

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