CIAN
The next morning, sunlight filtered through the curtains, warming the room. I woke with Fia still tucked against me, her breathing soft and even. My hand remained on her stomach, protective even in sleep.
She stirred, turning to face me. Her eyes fluttered open, and a sleepy smile curved her lips.
"Morning," she murmured.
"Morning." I kissed her forehead. "How are you feeling?"
"Good. Really good, actually." She stretched, then winced slightly.
"Sore?"
"A little." Her cheeks flushed. "But in a good way."
I grinned. "Good."
We took our time getting ready. Fia showered while I checked my phone for any urgent pack business. Nothing that couldn’t wait until after breakfast.
When we finally made it downstairs, the dining room was already set. The smell of bacon and fresh bread filled the air. My mother sat at the table, a cup of tea in her hands.
Her eyes lit up when she saw us walk in together. The knowing smile on her face told me she’d noticed our moods immediately.
"Happy night, I see," Morrigan said, her tone teasing.
Fia’s blush deepened, but she was smiling. She glanced at me, then back at my mother.
"Actually," Fia said, her voice bright with barely contained excitement, "there’s something we want to tell you."
Morrigan set down her tea. "Oh?"
"I’m pregnant."
The words hung in the air for a heartbeat. Then my mother’s face transformed. Pure joy radiated from her as she stood up so quickly her chair scraped against the floor.
"Oh, Fia!" She rushed around the table and pulled Fia into a tight embrace. "Oh my goodness, this is wonderful! This is the best news!"
I watched them, warmth spreading through my chest. My mother pulled back, holding Fia at arm’s length, her eyes shining with unshed tears.
"How far along? When did you find out? How are you feeling? Do you need anything?"
Fia laughed. "Not very far. Just a few weeks. I found out yesterday, and I’m feeling okay so far."
"This is such a blessing." Morrigan pulled her in for another hug. "Such a gift."
We sat down at the table as the Omegas began bringing in breakfast. Platters of eggs, bacon, sausages, fresh fruit, and pastries were laid out. My mother couldn’t stop beaming.
"I hope it’s a girl," Morrigan said, reaching for the teapot. "A sweet little girl to spoil."
"I hope so too," Fia agreed, her eyes sparkling.
"It’s a boy," I said confidently.
They both looked at me.
"You don’t know that," Fia said.
"I know."
"You can’t possibly know."
"Alpha instinct."
Fia rolled her eyes, but she was still smiling. My mother laughed, pouring tea for all of us.
I scanned the room as the Omegas continued serving. Something felt off. I counted the familiar faces, and then the other seats, checking who was present.
Of course, Aldric and Ronan were missing. Now that they were dead, and Uncle Gabriel was not present yet. But I had a feeling he was adjusting to his newfound freedom and would come around. The thing was... Elara was missing.
I frowned. Mostly because Elara did not miss a breakfast gathering when she was around, and the glaring aspect was what she was going through right now with her father’s execution by my hand.
I was worried for her.
I caught the eye of a sentinel standing near the door and gave him the signal to come. He approached immediately.
"Yes, Alpha?"
"Where is Elara?"
"I haven’t seen her this morning, Alpha."
Unease prickled at the back of my neck. "Go check on her. Make sure she’s alright."
"Yes, Alpha." He left quickly.
I hated that the worst thought kept piling inside my head. But I did my best not to think the worst.
I turned back to the table. Mother was still talking, her hands moving animatedly as she discussed nursery ideas with Fia. I integrated myself into their bubbly conversation to get rid of the gnawing, eerie feeling that did not leave me.
"We could convert the room next to yours," my mother said. "It has wonderful natural light. Perfect for a nursery."
"That sounds lovely," Fia said.
"And we’ll need to start thinking about colors. Neutral tones would be safest if we don’t know the gender yet, but if it’s a girl, I’m thinking soft lavenders or creams with gold accents. If it’s a boy—"
"It’s a boy," I interjected.
Fia kicked me lightly under the table. I grinned at her.
The sentinel returned, but instead of Elara with him, he carried a folded piece of paper. My stomach dropped.
"Alpha." He approached and handed me the letter. "I found this on her bed."
I unfolded it, my eyes scanning the neat handwriting.
Cian,
I need to leave for a while. I can’t explain everything right now, but I need space to process what’s happened. Please don’t worry about me. I’ll be safe.
I’m sorry I didn’t say goodbye in person. I couldn’t face it.
Thank you for everything you’ve tried to do for me.
Elara
I read it twice, my jaw tightening. This didn’t sit right with me. Elara wouldn’t just leave without telling anyone, not after everything.


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