It isn't uncommon for alphas who must be absent to make arrangements with their omegas. Especially in the lower classes -- omegas who are rich or noble often must simply suffer through, in the privacy that their homes afford them, but for an omega crowded in with many others, waiting out a lengthy heat isn't an option.

"On St. Nevis," says Hamilton, "it was quite ordinary to have these agreements. Alphas were often away at sea, and voyages can be so long, so it was called a half-marriage, un demi-mariage -- a way to ensure that the paternity of any child would be known, and that someone trustworthy would be there." He takes a seat next to Burr, on the bed. "Sometimes the demi would live with them, and I remember being fascinated, wondering if the alpha and the demi ever touched one another. I thought, if I was the alpha, that I might want that."

Such things aren't spoken of, like that, not in America. It would be quietly accepted if a relative of the husband, or a trusted friend, helped -- but it would not be formalized. It would not be legitimized. Better that they all pretend that all children of an omega are from the same alpha. And children of such unions are sometimes abandoned, Hamilton knows, as the alpha is unable to accept them.

At least he is sure he wouldn't have that problem.

"Then we will ask him," Hamilton resolves. "Together."