Emma's POVI stood at the head of the table, surveying the dinner setup. Everything was perfect, but the atmosphere was far from it. My triplets, Camilla, Rosaline, and Lucien, sat in their usual spots, each radiating distinct energies.Rosaline's icy demeanor pierced through me. Her eyes seemed to hold a thousand unspoken words, her jaw clenched in a tight line. Lucien's sadness tugged at my heartstrings. His usual bright smile was nowhere to be found, replaced by a somber expression. Camilla appeared lost in thought, her gaze drifting off into the distance.Gabe, my partner, stood at the window, his back to the room. His siblings, Augustine and Carly, exchanged venomous glances. The tension between them was palpable, their animosity infectious. April, Gabe's sis, looked scared, her eyes darting between her feuding siblings."Dinner's ready," I announced, trying to sound cheerful despite the heavy atmosphere.Gabe turned, his expression guarded. Augustine and Carly continued their si
Emma's POVCamilla's soft voice cut through the strained silence."I have something to say," she announced, her eyes scanning the table.The room fell quieter, as if everyone held their breath. April's eyes widened, Augustine's brow furrowed, and Lucien's tears paused mid-stream. Rosaline's gaze snapped to Camilla, interest sparking in her icy demeanor.Gabe's expression turned wary, his anger still simmering from the argument with Carly. Carly herself looked down, her submission still evident.Just as Camilla opened her mouth to speak, a fork clattered onto the plate. The sound echoed through the silence like a bell, making everyone jump.Everyone's eyes turned to the culprit, Lucien. His face flushed, and he apologized in a whisper, "Sorry.""Camilla took a deep breath and continued, her voice steady."I've been noticing some things... and I think we need to talk about it."The table leaned in, anticipation hanging heavy in the air. What would Camilla reveal?April's voice cut throu
Emma's POVRosaline's icy facade shattered, her eyes blazing with fury. But what stunned me was her target – Lucien, her brother."Can you just stop sobbing loudly in my ear? It's becoming annoying!" Rosaline shouted, her voice piercing.Lucien, taken aback, didn't respond. He quietly wiped away his tears, his eyes cast downward.I felt like I'd entered a nightmare. Rosaline, always composed, was yelling at her brother. The tension had reached a boiling point."Rosaline, stop," I intervened, trying to calm her. "What's wrong?"But Rosaline wouldn't be silenced. "He's always crying, always so weak. It's pathetic." Her words cut deep, Lucien's eyes welling up with fresh tears.Gabe's expression darkened, his anger redirected at Rosaline. "That's enough, Rosaline. Apologize.""April's eyes widened, shocked by Rosaline's outburst. Camilla's gaze turned thoughtful, as if piecing together a puzzle. Carly watched, her expression guarded.Lucien's silence was heartbreaking. He didn't defend h
Gabe's POVI trudged down the hallway, exhaustion weighing me down. The family dinner had been a disaster. Rosaline's outburst still echoed in my mind.As Alpha, I couldn't show weakness. But as a father, I felt helpless. My family was fracturing, and I didn't know how to mend it.I stopped outside Rosaline's room, taking a deep breath. Time to put on my Alpha face.I knocked softly, and Rosaline's muffled voice bid me enter.I opened the door to find Rosaline sitting on her bed, her eyes red-rimmed from crying. Camilla was nowhere to be seen, but I sensed she'd been here recently."Hey, kiddo," I said gently, sitting beside her.Rosaline looked up, her gaze searching mine. "I'm sorry, Dad."I pulled her into a hug. "No apologies necessary. We'll work through this."But Rosaline's words spilled out, a torrent of emotion. "It's just... Lucien's always talking, thinking about Krisdana. And April's hiding something. And Camilla's always defending them."I listened attentively, my Alpha i
Gabe's POV I stood outside Lucien's door, taking a deep breath. Confronting my son about his involvement with Krisdana wouldn't be easy, but necessary. Rosaline's words still echoed in my mind – Lucien dating Krisdana, the queen bee bully. I needed to know the truth.I knocked on the door, and Lucien's voice called out, "Come in."I entered, finding Lucien sitting on his bed, his eyes cast downward. "Hey, son," I said gently, taking a seat beside him.Lucien looked up, his gaze searching mine. "Dad, I know what this is about.""Rosaline told me about Krisdana," I began. "What's going on, Lucien? Is it true? Are you dating her?"Lucien's expression transformed, a soft smile spreading across his face. "Krisdana... she's different, Dad. She really likes me."My brow furrowed. "Likes you? Rosaline said Krisdana's a bully, that she's been tormenting our family."Lucien shook his head. "That's not true, Dad. Krisdana's just... misunderstood. She's been through a lot."I studied Lucien's fa
Camilla's POVI slammed my bedroom door, tears of frustration welling up in my eyes. Why did April do this to me? Why did she make me promise to keep her secret?April, my favorite aunt, the one person who truly understood me. And now... now she's hiding a monstrous secret. Drug addiction. I couldn't believe it.I paced back and forth in my room, anger and helplessness swirling inside me. April's plea echoed in my mind: "Please, Camilla, don't tell anyone. I'll handle it."Handle it? She's not handling it! She's drowning in it!I thought about all the times April cancelled plans at the last minute, all the times she seemed distant or preoccupied. It all made sense now.But why did she make me promise to keep quiet? Didn't she trust Mom and Dad to help her?I stopped pacing and collapsed onto my bed, burying my face in my pillow. This wasn't just about April's secret; it was about our family's dynamics. We're always so perfect, so put-together. But now... now I see the cracks.April's
Camilla's POVI sat beside April on the couch, our conversation earlier still weighing heavily on my mind. She fidgeted with her hands, avoiding eye contact."April, look at me," I said softly.She lifted her gaze, vulnerability etched on her face."I never begged to be a drug addict, Camilla," April began, her voice cracking. "It just... sort of happened."I nodded, encouraging her to continue."I was stressed, overwhelmed. Life felt suffocating. And then... I tried it. Just once, I told myself. But once became twice, and twice became..." April's voice trailed off.I took her hand, offering a gentle squeeze. "You're not alone, April. We'll get through this together."April's eyes welled up with tears. "I'm so ashamed, Camilla. I've let everyone down.""No, April, you haven't," I countered. "We love you, no matter what. And we'll support you through this."April sniffled, wiping away tears. "I feel like I've lost control. Like I'm drowning."I listened intently, my heart aching for he
Camilla's POV"I'm planning to announce April's addiction at dinner tonight," I say, determination in my voice.Rosaline's eyebrows rise. "Why?""Because it's necessary," I explain. "No one in the family knows yet, and we need to get her help."Rosaline's expression turns concerned. "Cam, think about how that will affect April. Don't you think it'll break her heart?"I take a deep breath. "April's heart is already broken because of her addiction. This is the only way to heal it."Rosaline's eyes fill with empathy. "I understand your intentions, but are you sure this is the right approach?""I've thought it through," I assure her. "We can't keep enabling her secrecy."Rosaline nods slowly. "If you truly feel what you're about to do is right, then who am I to stop you?"She pauses, collecting her thoughts."But promise me one thing: be gentle. April's fragile right now.""I will," I promise. "I just want to help her."Rosaline's voice is soft. "I know, Cam. We all do."Rosaline's expres
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