Emma's POV As we stepped into the mage's house, I was immediately enveloped in a thick, acrid smell of black dust. Steam wafted from various tubes and contraptions scattered around the room, creating an eerie atmosphere. Gabe's grip on my hand tightened, his overprotective nature surfacing once again. I wanted to roll my eyes, but the mage's presence commanded my attention."Welcome to my territory," the mage said, her words dripping with a lovely, exotic accent. Each syllable was enunciated with precision, making her speech sound almost musical. "What can I do for you?"Her gaze locked onto mine, piercing and intense. I felt a shiver run down my spine as I explained our situation, trying to keep my voice steady. "My children are missing. I need your help to track them down."The mage's expression remained unreadable, but her eyes sparkled with interest. She nodded slowly, her dark hair bobbing with the motion. "I sense a great disturbance in the energy surrounding your children. It
Emma's POVAs we stepped into the warehouse, a chill ran down my spine. I couldn't shake off the feeling of dread that had been building up inside me. I knew the mage's words were always laced with truth, but what if... just what if he was wrong this time? What if we were walking into a trap, or worse, what if we were too late?The thought of the triplets, innocent and helpless, sent a wave of fear crashing over me. What if we didn't make it in time? What if they were already... gone? The mere thought made my heart skip a beat. I couldn't bear the idea of living with the guilt of not being able to save them.I felt a gentle squeeze on my hand, and I turned to see Gabe offering me a reassuring smile. His eyes locked onto mine, and I felt a small sense of calm wash over me. But it was short-lived, as the creaking of the old warehouse door and the faint rustling of unknown noises sent my anxiety soaring again."Let me go get Alex from the other side," Gabe said, his voice low and steady,
Gabe's POV I rushed through the warehouse, my heart racing with adrenaline. We had found Emma's kids, but now we had to find the person who had taken them. I could feel my anger burning inside me, fueling my determination to bring this person to justice."April, keep watch!" I called out, as I turned a corner. She nodded, her eyes scanning the area, her gun at the ready.Augustine was searching every nook and cranny, his face set in a fierce expression. "I've got something!" he called out, as he disappeared into a side room.I followed him, my gun drawn. We had to be careful, we didn't know what we were up against.As we searched, I couldn't help but think of Emma and her kids. They had been through so much, and now we had to make sure they were safe."Found something!" Augustine called out again, as he emerged from the room. He held up a small piece of fabric. "This was caught in a nail. It looks like our guy was in a hurry."I took the fabric, examining it. It was a piece of a blac
Emma's POV I stared at the tied figure on the wooden chair, my eyes fixed on the person who had betrayed me in the worst possible way. Disappointment was etched on my face, my expression a mixture of shock and disgust. Every atom of love and trust I had once felt for this person had been replaced with disappointment, anger, and a deep sense of hurt.As I looked at them, I couldn't help but think about how they had deceived me, how they had manipulated me and used me for their own twisted purposes. My mind was racing with questions, with thoughts of how and why they had done what they did.But most of all, I felt a deep sense of sadness. Sadness that someone I had cared about could do something so heinous, so cruel. Sadness that my trust had been broken, and that my children had been put in harm's way.I took a step forward, my eyes locked on the figure in the chair. "Why?" I whispered, my voice barely audible. "How could you do this to me, to my children?” I felt like I had been pun
Emma's POVIn blind fury, I remembered everything I went through. The masked men who came to attack me, the terror I felt as I fought for my life. The endless days and nights I spent searching for my kids, my heart heavy with worry and fear. The sleepless nights, the tears, the desperation.It all came flooding back, and with it, a wave of anger and hatred towards Angelo. I remembered the feeling of helplessness, of being at the mercy of my attackers. I remembered the pain, the fear, the uncertainty.And now, I realized that Angelo was behind it all. He was the mastermind, the one who had orchestrated my suffering. The one who had taken my children, who had threatened to hurt them.My vision blurred, my mind consumed by rage and fury. I took a step forward, my hands clenched into fists. "You," I spat, my voice low and venomous. "You did this to me. You took my children, you hurt me, you destroyed my life."Angelo smiled, but I saw a flicker of fear in his eyes. He knew he had unleashe
Emma's POV I sat down in the chair next to Gabe, my mind racing with thoughts of what to do next. We had taken care of Angelo, but we still had to get our kids back.Gabe put his hand on my knee, his eyes filled with concern. "We need to think this through," he said. "We can't just rush in without a plan."I nodded, taking a deep breath. I knew he was right. We had to be smart about this."Okay," I said. "Let's think. What do we know?"Gabe pulled out a piece of paper and started scribbling notes. "We know they want us to come to the old warehouse on 5th and Main. We know they have the kids."I nodded, my mind racing. "And we know they're willing to kill. We can't trust them."Gabe's eyes met mine. "We need to come up with a plan that assumes they'll try to double-cross us."I nodded, a plan starting to form in my mind. "I think I have an idea," I said.Gabe raised an eyebrow. "What is it?"I smiled, a sense of determination growing inside me. "Let's give them what they want," I said
Emma's POVI stepped into the dimly lit warehouse, my heart racing with every creak of the old wooden floorboards beneath my feet. Gabe's grip on my arm tightened, his eyes scanning the shadows as if he sensed the danger lurking within. I tried to shake off the feeling of unease, but it only seemed to intensify with each step."Where are they?" I whispered, my voice barely audible over the pounding in my chest.Gabe's response was a gentle tug on my arm, leading me deeper into the warehouse. The air inside was thick with dust and the stench of decay. I could feel eyes upon us, boring into my skin like cold, calculating fingers.Suddenly, Gabe stopped dead in his tracks, his head cocked to one side as if listening to a sound I couldn't hear. My mind began to spiral with worst-case scenarios. What if this was a trap? What if we were walking into a nightmare from which we'd never awaken?"Gab—"His warning glance silenced me. My heart skipped a beat as I strained to hear what had caught
Emma's POVI took a deep breath and nodded, trying to keep my voice steady. "Okay, I'll do what you want. Just please, let the children go."The gaunt man smiled, seeming to savor the moment. "Very well, Emma. You've made the right decision."He walked over to the Triplets, Carly and Lucas, who were still tied up and gagged. He removed their gags and began to untie them, but only partially. They were still trapped, locked in a small cage-like structure in the corner of the warehouse.Gabe's eyes narrowed, his face twisted in anger. "This wasn't the agreement," he growled. "You said you'd let them go, not lock them up like animals."The kidnapper chuckled. "Oh, but this is exactly what we agreed on, Gabe. You see, Emma agreed to cooperate, and this is the result. The children are safe, for now."I felt a surge of fear at his words. What did he mean by "for now"?Gabe struggled against his restraints, his face red with rage. "You lied to us," he spat. "You'll pay for this."The kidnappe
Emma's POVI slipped out of the car, my heels clicking on the pavement. Time to pick up my babies. I smiled, anticipating their chatter.As I approached, the triplets noticed me and waved enthusiastically. Rosaline rushed to the front passenger seat, buckling up beside me. Camilla and Lucien settled into the backseat."Hey, kids! How was school?" I asked, starting the engine.Rosaline launched into a detailed account of her day, from math lessons to lunchtime gossip. "And then, Mommy, Tommy asked me for answers during the exam!"I raised an eyebrow, concerned. "Did you handle it okay?"Rosaline nodded vigorously. "Yes, Mommy. I told him I couldn't help him."I beamed with pride. "That's my smart girl!"Camilla chimed in from the backseat. "My exam was simple, Mom. No worries."Lucien shrugged. "Mine was fine, too."I glanced in the rearview mirror, meeting their eyes. "Last exam before summer break, huh?"The triplets cheered in unison."We're done, Mom!" Camilla exclaimed."Till next
Emma's POVI woke up to the warmth of Gabe's body beside me, his gentle breathing a soothing serenade. Last night was magical, a world of our own creation. As I slipped out of bed, Gabe stirred, his eyes fluttering open."Morning," he whispered, his voice husky."Good morning," I replied, smiling.I dressed quickly, my mind already on breakfast. The kitchen was my sanctuary, where love and nourishment blended.As I cooked, the aroma of freshly baked pastries and brewing coffee filled the air. The pack would gather soon, eager to help Carly with her mating ceremony preparations.But I wouldn't join them. Baking was my solace, my way of showing love.The triplets were at school, their exams looming. My babies. My heart swelled with pride. No matter what, I'd always love them.Gabe entered the kitchen, his presence wrapping around me like a warm hug."You're amazing," he said, stealing a kiss.I blushed, my heart skipping a beat."Just making breakfast," I replied, waving a flour-dusted
Gabe's POVI left my office, eager to return home. The evening air was crisp, carrying the scent of blooming flowers.As I entered my house, the silence enveloped me. Everyone was likely indoors, retired to their rooms.I glanced around, confirming my suspicion. Camilla and April were probably out for ice cream, giggling over flavors. Rosaline had tagged along with Augustine to the supermarket, eager to help with shopping.And Lucien... He was likely with Krisdana, lost in their own little world.That left me alone in the house, with Emma.A thrill ran through me as I climbed the stairs, my footsteps quiet on the carpet.I reached Emma's room, my heart beating faster. I pushed open the door, finding her sitting on the bed, lost in thought."Hey," I said softly, not wanting to startle her.Emma looked up, her eyes locking onto mine. A hint of a smile played on her lips."Hey," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.I stepped inside, closing the door behind me. The world outside
Gabe's POVI stood in my office, gazing out the window at the bustling pack grounds. As Alpha, I couldn't always be with my family. Duty called, and I had to answer.My mind wandered to Camilla and the kids. I missed their laughter, their smiles. But I knew I had to put the pack first.My assistant, Ryder, knocked on the door. "Alpha, we have a meeting with the border patrol in an hour."I nodded, focusing on the task at hand. "Let's review the reports."The meeting was productive, but my thoughts kept drifting to Luca. I needed to talk to him, apologize for my past mistakes.Luca's mating ceremony with Carly was approaching, and I wanted to clear the air. My pride had kept me silent for too long.As I worked, the hours ticked by. Finally, I heard the door open, and Luca walked in."Gabe," he said, his expression neutral."Luca," I replied, standing up. "Thanks for coming."Luca took a seat, his eyes locked on mine. "What's this about?"I took a deep breath. "I want to apologize. For
Camilla's POVFinally, everything was perfect. Our family was whole again. Lucien and Krisdana's relationship had brought a new sense of joy to our lives. I'd never seen Lucien so happy, so carefree.Their love story was one of redemption and forgiveness. Lucien had forgiven Krisdana for her past mistakes, and she'd proven herself worthy of his trust. I admired their strength, their commitment to each other.But what brought me the most relief was April's recovery. No more addiction, no more terrible nightmares, no more fear in her eyes. She was herself again – vibrant, kind, and full of life.I remembered the dark days, the sleepless nights spent worrying about April's well-being. The helplessness had been suffocating. But now, with April's smile radiant once more, our home felt truly happy.Last night's sleepover with Lucien and Rosaline had been the cherry on top. We'd giggled, shared secrets, and reaffirmed our bond. Our family's love had conquered all.As I walked downstairs, the
Lucien's POVI settled into my bed, phone pressed to my ear, and Krisdana's sweet voice filled my senses. "Hey, baby," she said, her tone husky."Hey," I replied, grin spreading across my face."How's your day?" Krisdana asked."Better now," I said, closing my eyes. "Just needed to hear your voice.""Aww, Lucien," Krisdana cooed. "You're making me blush."I chuckled. "That's the plan."We talked about our days, sharing stories and laughter. Krisdana's voice was music to my ears.As we chatted, my mind drifted back to the recent drama with Tyler. Guilt pricked at my conscience."Krisdana?" I said, my tone serious."Yes?""I'm sorry," I began, "for almost suspecting you with Tyler. I was blind, stupid."Krisdana's soft laughter calmed my nerves. "Lucien, it's okay. I know you were worried.""No, it's not okay," I insisted. "I should've trusted you. You'd never betray me.""Lucien, stop," Krisdana said firmly. "You were hurt, scared. I get it.""I promise, Krisdana, I'll never doubt you
Rosaline's POVAs I gazed around the room, warmth filled my heart. Everyone was smiling, genuinely happy. Lucien, my usually brooding brother, looked relaxed, laughing with April. Her return had brought joy to our family, especially to Camilla.That little ball of energy was beaming, her eyes sparkling whenever April was near. Their bond was special, and I was grateful April was home, better and stronger.Carly's happiness was contagious, and even Augustine couldn't hide his smile. His reserved nature made his rare displays of emotion all the more precious. Mum's radiant smile told me Dad was happy too.It was a chain reaction of love and happiness, each person's joy amplifying the others. Our family had faced struggles, but we'd emerged stronger.I watched Mum, her eyes shining with tears as she listened to April's stories. Her love for our family was unwavering.Dad, our Alpha, sat amidst our gathering, his presence a steady anchor. His love for our family was palpable.As I soaked
Augustine's POVI watched my family laugh and share stories, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction. Finally, everyone was coming together, bonding over love and shared experiences."Family bonding," I murmured to myself, a small smile creeping onto my face.Carly's happiness was contagious. I'd never shown it, but her joy filled me with pride. As her brother, I'd always prioritized strength and control, hiding my emotions behind a stoic mask.But today, surrounded by loved ones, I allowed myself a moment of vulnerability. My eyes lingered on Carly, her smile radiant as she talked about Luca.Gabe caught my gaze, nodding in understanding. He knew me too well.I cleared my throat, addressing the room. "It's good to see everyone together. We've been through a lot, but our bond remains unbreakable."Emma's eyes met mine, warmth and gratitude shining within them.Rosaline, Lucien, and Camilla chattered excitedly, their energy infectious. April's newfound happiness was a balm to our family's
April's POVI zipped my suitcase, excitement coursing through my veins. Finally, I was leaving the rehab center. My two-month program was done, and I felt reborn.The memories of my time here were bittersweet. I had struggled, cried, and fought my demons. But with every passing day, I found strength, hope, and inner peace.I thought of Camilla, my little niece, and my heart swelled. If not for her, I might still be trapped in the darkness of addiction. Her innocent smile and loving gaze had awakened something within me.I envisioned the warm welcome awaiting me at home. Rosaline's nurturing embrace, Lucien's reassuring smile, Gabe's protective hug, Emma's gentle kindness, Carly's infectious laughter, and Augustine's wise guidance.My journey to sobriety wasn't easy, but it was worth it. I had discovered a new purpose: to live for myself and those I loved.As I wheeled my suitcase out of the room, a sense of freedom filled me. I was ready to start anew, to cherish every moment with my