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."

***

afternoon at the communal gardens, where the younger wolves worked alongside her. They were a cheerful group, full of laughter and jokes that lightened the air, but Aurora struggled to keep up with their energy. The act of bending and planting herbs left her dizzy, her vision swimming

named Elias, noticed her pause and called out, "You okay, Aurora? You've been moving a little slow

a smile. "I'm fine. Just taking

working hard, though," he said, tossing a grin

not from her nausea this time. She turned back to her work,

to their next tasks, she felt a shadow fall over her. She turned to

yourself too hard,"

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

a moment, he said nothing. "You've been pale for days," he finally said. "And

just adjusting

duties, you only have to ask. This pack isn't built on pushing people to their breaking point. It's built

small smile. "Thank you,

another moment before stepping back. "Good.

"Yes?"

you ever need something, you can come

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