Blinking back tears, I turn away from the window and from the memories of the past. I knew coming back here would be hard, but I never dreamed that it would take this much out of me. I know I did the right thing, though. Leaving this place all those years ago was the bravest decision I ever made. Coming back was the hardest. It was still right.
I wipe my eyes and follow the smell of bacon, pancakes, and fresh coffee downstairs. When I reach the bottom step, I can see everyone gathered around the island in the kitchen. Paul is standing over the stove, trying to keep the bacon grease from spattering his arms. Those arms. Those beautifully tattooed arms that really once saved my life.
Aiden is pouring a glass of orange juice for his mate, Teagan. She’s a sweet girl who will make my baby very happy. He loves her. That makes me happy. Regardless of whether or not he becomes the alpha here, he will never have to choose between loyalty and love. He will get to have both.
Paul and our daughter Alli laugh as he tries to a stick a piece of burnt bacon into her mouth. As he wrestles her into a headlock, he sees me. My knees still go all wobbly when he smiles at me that way. That rock-star smile lights up his face and reaches all the way up into those swimming-pool-blue eyes of his.
“Help me, Mom,” Alli screeches as she tries to wrestle away, which she could easily do if she really wanted, what with her werewolf strength and all.
Seeing them together and knowing that our children grew up loved and cherished made all the suffering and heartbreak of my past worth it. I gave up my life here nineteen years ago for a new one full of happiness and unconditional love with Paul, and I have never, ever regretted it. Whatever comes next with the boys and Marcus, no matter what our future holds, I never will.