Chapter 0364

I realize instantly that Evelyn, Seraphina, and I would have been sisters even without the Guardian bond. Our personalities differ, but our core values align perfectly.

I share stories about our pack—how every member came from abusive backgrounds. Their eyes widen at the sheer number of refugees and the multiple packs they originated from.

"How could any Alpha and Luna neglect their pack like that?" Evelyn asks, fingers tracing circles over her rounded belly. "Protecting them is their sacred duty."

Seraphina nods sharply. "Exactly. I nearly lost control when I thought Sebastian was tolerating omega abuse. My aura forced the entire pack to their knees in pain before he restrained me." She exhales. "Leadership is a partnership. When emotions run high, the mate bond stabilizes everything—not just for us, but for the pack's survival."

"Honestly, I used to despise the mate bond," I admit. "Watching my mother suffer for years, chained to a man who didn't love her... I swore I'd never want it." My chest tightens. "Then I met Victor. The bond isn't the problem—it's the people in it. When both partners cherish it..." I smile, remembering Victor's hands framing my face. "It becomes something breathtaking."

Evelyn leans back, cradling her stomach. "My father always said the mate bond was life's greatest gift." Her voice softens. "He never took another mate. Not even considered it." She meets my gaze. "Now that I have Adrian... I understand. No one else could ever compare."

"Music to my ears, darling." Adrian's deep chuckle precedes his arrival. He scoops Evelyn onto his lap. "How are my girls?" He nuzzles her neck.

"Perfect," she murmurs as his palm glides over her bump.

"When are you due?" I ask just as Sebastian emerges, hauling Seraphina onto his lap despite her eye roll. He buries his nose in her dark curls.

"Six weeks," Evelyn answers.

Seraphina shifts under Sebastian's grip. "I'm a month behind her—midway through."

"Do you know the genders?" I already sense the answer through Aurora's enhanced perception.

Evelyn swats Adrian's arm playfully. "A girl. This one's insufferably proud he detected her scent first."

"A boy," Sebastian states. "And Adrian's right—I knew before the doctors confirmed."

My gaze flicks toward the house. "Where's Victor?"

"Filing paperwork to legitimize your pack," Adrian explains. "My father's assisting. They're leaving the name blank for your input."