Ran Away Pregnant Came Back Alpha Heiress (Amelia and Damien) novel Chapter 31

**Night Whispers Forgotten Names – Colin Shah 31**

**Chapter 31**

**Claire POV**

“Alright,” Victoria declared as we pulled into the bustling parking lot of the mall. Her tone was a mix of excitement and determination. “This is it. Are you prepared for what’s about to unfold?”

I felt a flutter of anticipation in my stomach, the fabric of my carefully chosen outfit hugging my curves just right. Each morning, I had taken great care to dress in a way that highlighted my growing bump, a testament to the hard work I had invested in this new chapter of my life. The attention I was receiving, the status that came with this pregnancy—it was all a reward I felt I had earned. But now, there was one final loose end to tie up, a thread that needed snipping.

With a confident smile, I replied, “Oh, I’m more than ready.”

**Amelia POV**

Lillian had been absolutely right about needing to escape the confines of my home. Shopping was not just a distraction; it was a necessary reprieve from the relentless cycle of anxiety that had taken root in my mind. While I cherished the comfort of my surroundings, the constant worry about my situation had begun to weigh heavily on me.

And honestly, I was in dire need of new clothes. The baby was on the way, and I hadn’t even begun to gather the essentials. Not a single item was in my possession.

As I wandered through an upscale baby boutique, my eyes roamed over the exquisite array of tiny garments crafted from the softest, most luxurious fabrics. The sight of delicate onesies and charming accessories began to ease the tension in my shoulders. For the first time in what felt like ages, a wave of warmth and tranquility washed over me.

Engaged in conversation with Lillian, I found myself debating the merits of a blue onesie versus a green one, and pondering how many bottles would be necessary for the impending arrival. In the midst of this light-hearted banter, my thoughts drifted back to my childhood.

I had been such a lonely child, devoid of any real family connection. Then, the joy of being adopted had filled my heart with hope. I had longed for the love and sense of belonging that had always eluded me.

Barely able to articulate my fear, I leaned in closer to her and whispered, “That’s Claire. She’s the one carrying Damien’s ‘real’ heir. And the woman with her is his sister, Victoria. They—they absolutely despise me.”

My voice trembled as I spoke the truth I had been holding inside, the painful realization that members of my husband’s family had played a significant role in the unraveling of my life.

Now, not only was I anxious about their presence and the potential trouble they could stir, but I also worried about Lillian’s safety. If anything were to happen to her, it could ignite a fierce conflict between our packs.

But Lillian, with her experience as a Luna, was quick to act.

“Quick, hide in here,” she urged, pushing aside a few garments and ushering me behind them. We were standing next to a circular rack of clothes, and there was just enough space for me to squeeze in without being seen.

I held my breath, convinced that Victoria and Claire had spotted me. Yet, to my surprise, they strolled right past. They paused to examine a nearby rack, their voices carrying just enough for me to catch snippets of their conversation.