Chapter 32
**Zoe**
I fall asleep quickly after the meeting and wake up in the Garden of Eve, though this time I am alone. I sit down beside the waterfall and dip my feet into the water. My heart feels heavy from the meeting with Jackson; I never like discussing the night my mother died. Suddenly, I feel someone touch my shoulder. When I look up, I see my mother. I am not sure if this is a dream or the real Garden of Eve.
“Mom,” I say, reaching out to touch her.
I pull her into a hug, and my disbelief transforms into overwhelming emotion. I can’t believe she’s here and that I can actually touch her.
“Your absence has been a void in my life, “I confess, my voice trembling. She cups my face, her touch a balm to my soul, and apologizes for leaving me so soon.
She also reveals her own powers as a Fey witch, a fact that both fascinates and intrigues me. I wonder if one day, I too could bring my brothers and sister to the Garden of Eve to see her.
“I am so proud of you,” she whispers, her eyes shining with admiration. She marvels at my powers, a testament to her unwavering faith in me. She embraces me once more, affirming that I did the right thing by reporting my father. And then, with a solemn tone, she urges me to never hesitate to protect my mate and family, even if it means confronting my father.
After waking up from the Garden of Eve, I feel revitalized and excited to share the details of our meeting with Mom. Once I’m ready, I join Katelynn and Beth for a shopping trip to prepare for Aliza’s baby shower. We have a wonderful morning exploring various gender-neutral items and eventually settle on the perfect decorations for the surprise baby shower.
Jackson is in the dining room. He hands me a cup of coffee and kisses me on the forehead.
“Morning, beautiful. I let you sleep because I thought you might need some rest. You had a very fitful night,” he says.
“Did you have a bad dream?” he asks.
“Actually, no,” I reply. “I had a great dream.” I sit down with my plate of food and tell Jackson about my mom and the Garden of Eve.
He gently kisses me and says, “I’m happy you saw your mom.”
Then, I tell him that I have to go because Katelynn and I are going shopping with Beth for the baby shower.
Before I can walk away, he turns and kisses me deeply and passionately.
Dustin and Max will drive us to the store and accompany us while we shop. I enjoy spending time with Max; his serious yet funny demeanor reminds me of my brother, Tyler. He’s rarely serious unless it’s necessary. He drapes his arm around me and asks if I can spend the day with him.
I tell Katelynn and Beth about my dream in the Garden of Eve. Katelynn hugs me with tears in her eyes and expresses her hope that I can take her to see Mom someday.
My powers are increasing, and with what I’ve learned, I should be able to take my siblings to the Garden of Eve. I have been practicing the meditation exercises Belinda gave me, and I can now light candles and move small objects with the wind. I am not incredibly powerful yet, but I am gaining better control. Belinda is coming over later today to help me with more exercises. She says I am progressing very well.
We make our way to the store, the air buzzing with excitement, as we begin our search for the perfect decorations. The aisles are filled with vibrant colors and festive items, each one sparking joy as we imagine how they will transform the space for the upcoming celebration. Alongside the decor, we carefully select some adorable baby items for Danny and Aliza, envisioning the sweetness they will bring when the little one arrives.
Beth is practically glowing with enthusiasm; after all, this is her and Eric’s first grandchild. It’s heartwarming to see her already showering the baby with love, picking out tiny clothes and toys, even though the little one isn’t here yet. What brings us even more comfort is knowing how supportive Beth will be for Aliza. Her nurturing spirit shines through, and we all feel a deep sense of reassurance that she will be an incredible help when the baby arrives. That thought wraps around us like a warm blanket, filling us with happiness and anticipation for the joyful times ahead.
As we carefully collect all the items we need, I can feel a buzz of excitement in the air. We head towards the car, our bags in tow, filled with decorations, delicious snacks, and thoughtful gifts. This weekend is the baby shower, and I can hardly contain my anticipation. I can already envision the joyful atmosphere, the laughter of friends and family, and the look of surprise on Aliza’s face when she walks in. It’s going to be a day to remember!