Page 42 of Hainn

“I wish I’d had time to get the crib set up in the new room MARL created for us at the residence,” Jezari said.

“We’ve got the cradle Yonn carved for us and we’d be keeping Therron in our room for the first few weeks anyway,” Hainn said reasonably. “It’ll all come together, don’t worry.”

“I can’t help it,” she said, tears flooding her eyes. She wiped them away impatiently. “Damn hormones! I thought I’d be past their effects after I gave birth.”

Hainn sat on the bed, folding her and the baby into his arms with great care. “No Badari has ever been as happy as I am right this minute,” he said in a soft voice. “You’ve given me everything.”

“In this we’re equals,” she said, resting her forehead against his and breathing deeply of his scent. “I love you.”

All too soon there was a gentle knock and Dr. Garrison stuck her head in. “I can’t keep the Alphas out much longer.”

Hainn and Jezari checked with each other over the baby’s head and both smiled. “It’s fine, let them come in,” she said. “It’s time for Therron to start meeting his packmates and as he’s not crying right now, they’ll have a great first impression.”

“I’ll be right back.” Megan ducked out into the hall.

“Are we ready for this?” Hainn asked, drawing a shaky breath

“Together we can handle anything, from giant waves to Badari Alphas,” Jezari said with a chuckle. “It’s going to be those middle of the night diaper changes and feedings that’ll test our fortitude.”

They were laughing together, unconsciously presenting the perfect picture of what they all hoped the future could be for the Badari someday as the Alphas strode into the room. As theAlphas and their mates exclaimed over the robust child, Jezari sent a grateful prayer of thanks to the Great Mother and asked for continued help and guidance now she was embarked on motherhood.

All will be wellsaid the musical voice in her mind.You’ve done exceptionally well, Daughter, and happy are all the paths I foresee ahead of you. Rest now, enjoy your family and the company of your brothers and sisters and be content, for you’ve found a home and a mate and a place to be in the universe. A man or woman can ask for no more.

Jezari looked at her room full of well wishers and nodded to herself. The Great Mother was right—her path to this point had been a struggle at times but the end result was worth everything she’d endured.

Hainn put his arm around her and stroked the baby’s cheek. “Happy?”

“More than you’ll ever know.”

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