115

115
Isla’s POV

I jolted awake, my hand instinctively moving to caress the small bump that graced my abdomen. A wave of relief washed over me as I discovered Baby Luke slumbering in his crib, oblivious to the commotion. As I settled back into bed, the door creaked open, unveiling Celeste's concerned face peeking through.

"Luna Isla, I hope you had a restful sleep. I felt the need to check on both of you. Is everything alright?" Celeste's voice was filled with genuine care. Caught off guard, my brows furrowed in confusion, but I quickly composed myself, offering a reassuring smile as I nodded in response.

"Yes, of course, I was just awakening. But will Luke be alright, considering he wasn't expected?" I asked, my voice filled with a hint of worry, my legs dangling over the edge of the bed as I stretched my tired body.

Celeste's gaze softened, releasing a gentle breath of reassurance. "Rest easy, Luna Isla. Baby Luke was full-term and perfectly healthy. It seems you were unaware you were carrying him all along?"

My breath hitched, a mixture of shock and disbelief flooding my senses. How had I not known? The signs now became glaringly obvious, but at the time, they slipped past my radar, masked by other distractions in my life.

"I... I didn't realise," I stuttered, attempting to comprehend the truth. "There were hints, perhaps, but I dismissed them, attributing them to other causes. I never expected something as life-altering as this."

Celeste's expression softened as she approached me, a look of concern in her eyes. "It's not uncommon, Luna Isla. Sometimes, women don't immediately realise they are pregnant, especially if they're experiencing irregular cycles or their bodies don't exhibit the typical signs."

I couldn't ignore the overwhelming love and protectiveness that surged within me for my unborn child.

"Is the baby healthy?" I asked, my voice filled with maternal instinct and worry.

Celeste smiled warmly. "Yes, Luna Isla. Baby Luke is doing just fine. He's healthy and strong, and from what I can tell, he will be a fighter just like his mother."

"Thank you, Celeste," I whispered, gratitude lacing my words. "Thank you for being here and taking care of us. I never expected this, but I'm ready to embrace it and give my all to my baby boy."

Celeste nodded, her eyes glistening with fondness. "I do not doubt that you will, Luna Isla. You're stronger than you realise, and I'll be here every step of the way to support you. Now. Alpha Aaron is tied up with things at the moment, but he will be back here soon. In the meantime, I will keep you company.”

My thoughts were racing, and a flurry of questions filled my mind. It had been some time since I last tapped into any of my hybrid abilities, let alone shifting to my Wolf form. However, an overwhelming intuition told me that a profound event was about to unfold, one that Celeste was keen on safeguarding me from.

“I need to be down with Aaron and by his side. Things need to be put right.” I said.

"Isla, it would be unwise to rush into anything. You just gave birth," Celeste protested, concern etched across her face.

Respecting her advice, I acknowledged her words but asserted my position, "Celeste, with all due respect, I am the Luna and a hybrid. I am more than capable of handling any situation that may arise. Tell me what is happening."

A deep sigh escaped Celeste's lips as she deliberated before finally divulging, "Alpha Aaron discovered his father's betrayal. He has been working in cahoots with Mrs Jenkins. Sasha discovered this, and your mother and Jameson will confront Alpha Leon. He won't be getting with anything, don't worry. Your Alpha knows he needs to tread carefully on this subject. He is understandably hurt that his father could betray him.” Celeste pushed her hair from her face and frowned.

Cleo growled in my mind, and I pushed her back down. I needed to try and process this news. Alpha Leon had never liked hybrids after losing his mate to one.

This revelation hit me like a thunderbolt. Instantly, I understood why Aaron had most likely heightened security to keep me out of harm's way. He was worried about my well-being. Anger surged within me, fueled by the fact that I had not been informed of this development.

As a strong Wolf and hybrid, my healing abilities were exceptional, and Aaron should have known that.

"Celeste, take me to this warlock. I need to set things right. My responsibility is to redeem myself for allowing this injustice to persist for far too long. I should have taken action much sooner," I declared, determined to make amends.

Celeste shook her head, but I could see she understood the fire that burned in my eyes. "Isla, I admire your determination, but please understand that Alpha Aaron wants to protect you. He worries for your safety and the safety of the pups. Let us handle this for now. We will bring justice to those involved, but you must prioritise your recovery and the well-being of our family."

Her words resonated with me, reminding me of my responsibility as the Luna and a mother. The intense need for vengeance still smouldered within me, but I knew patience and strategic thinking were essential.

“Yes. You're right, Celeste," I conceded reluctantly. "The safety of our pack and the pups must be the priority. But promise me that you will keep me informed. I need to be involved in the decisions that impact us."

Celeste nodded solemnly, "I understand, Isla. We will not keep you in the dark. Your voice will be heard. Now, how about I have Carrie brought up to you and meet her baby brother?”