Luna Aurora (Alpha Fenrir)

Chapter 19

Aurora awoke to a dull ache in her lower back and the lingering haze of exhaustion that had become all too familiar. She sat up slowly, pressing a hand to her stomach, where a faint stirring seemed to echo the unease she carried. Morning sickness had become her

constant companion, a reminder of the powerful lives growing within her.

Lila was already awake, brewing tea and humming softly as she worked. She glanced over when Aurora entered the kitchen. "You need to eat something, even if it's just dry bread," she said gently. "It'll help with the nausea." "I'll try," Aurora murmured, though her stomach twisted at the thought of food. She sat at the table, resting her head in her hands.

Lila placed a cup of tea in front of her and sat down. "You can't keep this up," she said, her tone firm. "Cassian's watching you, and so are the others. If you collapse in the middle of the gardens, they'll know something's wrong." Aurora groaned softly. "I don't want to think about it right now."

Her mother reached across the table, taking her hand. "Aurora, you're not alone in this. Whatever happens, you have me. And I see the way Cassian looks at you. He's not Fenrir. He won't tear you down the moment things get difficult." Aurora stiffened, her throat tightening at the mention of Fenrir. "I can't take that chance," she whispered. "Not again."

Lila sighed but didn't press further.

***

welcomed for its solitude, but the strain of standing for hours left her feeling lightheaded. She leaned against a crate, trying to steady her breathing. The door creaked open behind her, and she turned to see Cassian stepping inside. He

he said, his tone neutral but

composed. "Just finishing up the inventory," she said,

"You've been quieter than

racing for an explanation. "I wasn't feeling

"Nothing serious, but enough to leave your work

damp. "I didn't want to risk

her for a long moment, and she could feel the weight of his scrutiny. Finally, he nodded. "You've done more than enough for now. I'll have someone else finish the

stopped when she saw the firm set of his jaw. "Thank you,

mind buzzed with unease. Cassian's concern felt genuine, but it only made her more aware of the

***

the window that evening, staring out at the darkened forest. Lila

barely above a whisper. "I don't