85

TEDDY

The car slowed as we approached the Monroe estate, my pulse hammering in my ears. Phin parked, and the realization hit hard. We were about to see our baby for the first time. The sonography machine, the one Kael insisted on getting, was waiting inside. I clenched my fists, trying to contain the rush of excitement clawing its way through me. This was it.

Beside me, Cassy stared out the window, her hand resting absently on her stomach. She'd been quieter than usual lately, her thoughts drifting somewhere I couldn't follow. As much as I wanted her to share my enthusiasm, I understood why she didn't. Being the Moon Goddess, an Alpha, and now a mother.

Her world was heavier than mine. So I bit down my joy, keeping it tempered. But it wasn't easy.

The moment we stepped out of the car, Cassy's mother wasted no time. She swooped in, collecting Cassy and Vivi along with the other women. "Come on, girls," she said, ushering them toward the healers.

I glanced over at Phin, who stood besi