THE NEXT MOVE

Damien stood in the grand foyer of the new house, the walls echoing the weight of the moment. The house, still echoing with the sounds of construction, was now a sanctuary for Elena and their unborn child, a place he hoped would be safe from the chaos brewing in the outside world. He had made sure it was fortified, with every measure taken to protect his mate and their future, but as he looked at Elena, doubt seeped into his mind.

Elena stood before him, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. The morning light filtered through the large windows, illuminating her face and highlighting the worry etched in her features. She was radiant, even in her vulnerability, but it broke his heart to see the fear lurking beneath her brave facade.

“Promise me you will come back to me and our child,” she said, her voice trembling slightly as she grasped his hand tightly.

Damien felt the weight of her words wrap around him like a shroud. He would fight, he would do whatever it took, but the thought of