Luna Aurora (Alpha Fenrir)

Chapter 18

The sunlight spilled through the window, catching the edge of the cup in Aurora's hands as she sat at the table, staring at the swirling tea leaves. Her mother bustled quietly around the small cottage, moving with the ease of someone who had long since learned to make a home out of temporary spaces. Aurora lifted the cup to her lips, but the warm liquid did little to ease the roiling in her stomach. She had woken early, already lightheaded and queasy, and the nausea only seemed to grow worse as the day progressed.

"You're running on fumes, Aurora," Lila said, setting down a small plate of bread and cheese. "It's not just morning sickness. You're wearing yourself thin."

Aurora placed the cup down carefully, her trembling hands betraying her. "I can't stop now. The moment I pull back, someone will notice."

Her mother sighed, sitting across from her. "And what happens when they do? You're not just carrying children, Aurora. You're carrying the weight of an entire history. One mistake, and all the work you've done to blend in will come undone."

Aurora's fingers tightened around the edge of the table. She hated that her mother was right. Every interaction, every conversation felt like walking a tightrope. Cassian's kindness only made it worse. His watchful gaze, the way he seemed to sense her fatigue without prying-it all made her feel as though he could see the secret she fought to keep hidden.

"They're strong," Lila continued, her voice softer now. "Your children. They're drawing from you, even now. It's a sign of their power. But you need to protect yourself if you're going to protect them."

Aurora let out a shaky breath, her hand unconsciously moving to her abdomen. "What if I can't?"

"You will," Lila said firmly. "But only if you stop trying to do everything yourself."

***

They were a cheerful group, full of laughter and jokes that lightened the air, but Aurora

the younger wolves, a boy named Elias, noticed her pause and

forced a smile. "I'm fine. Just taking

tossing

this time. She turned back to her work, keeping her expression

felt a shadow fall over her. She turned to find Cassian standing

too hard," he said, his voice

her apron. "I'm fine, Alpha. I

nothing. "You've been pale for days," he finally said. "And you're not as steady as you think you

just adjusting to the workload," she

ask. This pack

forcing a small smile. "Thank you, Alpha. I'll keep

studied her for another moment before stepping back. "Good. And

"Yes?"

you can come to

though her throat tightened at his words. She watched him leave, her hands trembling. His kindness was both a balm and a burden, making her more aware of the secret she carried and the weight of what would happen if it ever