KEEPING THE SECRET

The days following Elena’s revelation were filled with a new kind of tenderness between her and Damien. Every moment they spent together was precious, as if they were guarding a beautiful secret between them. Damien’s protectiveness over her grew stronger, though he did his best to maintain their normal routine around the pack to avoid arousing suspicion.

They shared fleeting glances at meals, secret touches when no one was watching, and at night, Damien held her close, his hands often resting over her growing belly as they lay in bed. The bond between them seemed deeper now, a quiet promise of the family they were creating.

One evening, while they were alone in the pack’s private garden, Damien sat with Elena under the stars. His fingers laced with hers as they talked about the future.

“Have you thought about names?” he asked softly, looking over at her with a gentle smile.

Elena chuckled, leaning into his side. “I’ve thought about it a little. But we don’t even know if it’s a boy or