Page 64 of Sun's Roar

Tyanna led them to a reserved table in the corner—the best in the house with a perfect view of both the dining room and the open kitchen where Marco was orchestrating culinary magic.

“How’s Alina working out?” Helena asked, easing herself carefully into the chair Sol held for her.

“Your pack member is a godsend,” Tyanna gushed. “The organizational skills of that woman! Our profits are up fourteen percent since she took over management.”

Helena beamed with pride. Creating connections between her two worlds had become her specialty over the past nine months. “I knew she’d be perfect.”

Sol’s hand remained on her shoulder as he scanned the restaurant with the vigilance of an alpha protecting his pregnant mate. His green eyes missed nothing, cataloging exits and potential threats with military precision. Helena had long stopped finding his overprotectiveness annoying—especially since she’d learned the pack tradition that dictated pregnant Lunas were never to be left unguarded.

Marco emerged from the kitchen, wiping his hands on his apron. “The queen returns!” he announced, bending to kiss Helena’s cheek. “And looking like she swallowed a watermelon—or two!”

“Watch yourself,” Sol growled, though there was no real heat behind it. He’d grown accustomed to Helena’s former colleagues and their familiar ways, even if he still bristled at other men touching her.

“Ignore him,” Helena laughed. “The closer we get to the due date, the more wolfish he’s becoming.”

Marco grinned. “I’ve prepared something special for you—no spice, I promise.” He winked and disappeared back into the kitchen.

Helena settled against the cushioned chair, contentment washing over her. The twins shifted restlessly inside her, responding to her emotions as they always did. Nine months ago, she couldn’t have imagined this life—mated to a wolf prince, carrying his children, and balancing her culinary passion with leading a supernatural pack. Now, she couldn’t imagine any other path.

“Feeling happy today?” Sol asked softly, his thumb tracing circles on her shoulder.

“Completely.” Helena tilted her head back to look at him. “Though I’m looking forward to not waddling everywhere and being able to see my feet again.”

Sol’s smile was predatory and possessive. “You’re beautiful like this. Round with my pups.” His hand slid to her belly, warm and strong. “My Luna, my world.”

A sharp twinge made Helena gasp, different from the usual kicks and stretches. Sol tensed immediately, his nostrils flaring.

“What is it?” His voice dropped to that familiar authoritative tone.

“Nothing,” Helena assured him, though uncertainty flickered through her. “Just practice contractions. Dr. Lyra said they’re normal.”

Sol looked unconvinced but relaxed marginally. “We’re heading back after lunch. No arguments.”

“Yes, Alpha,” Helena teased, though privately she agreed.

Helena savored the last bite of the wild mushroom risotto, letting the earthy flavors linger on her tongue. Marco had outdone himself, putting together a feast that catered perfectlyto her pregnancy cravings while still showcasing his culinary artistry. Though she had left this life behind, she appreciated how her old world and new one had begun to intertwine.

“That was incredible,” she sighed, dabbing her lips with the napkin. “I’ve missed his cooking.”

Sol’s fingers traced lazy patterns on her wrist. “Not as good as yours though.”

Helena smiled, knowing he meant it. She’d begun cooking again three months into her pregnancy, unable to stay away from the kitchen. The pack had been enthusiastically supportive, especially when she’d started incorporating her fire magic into her techniques.

Tyanna emerged from the back, holding a small package. “A little something for the babies,” she said, handing it to Helena. “From all of us.”

Helena unwrapped the gift to find two tiny chef’s hats embroidered with flames and the restaurant’s logo. Her eyes welled with tears.

“Damn these hormones,” she laughed, wiping her eyes. “Thank you. We’ll hang them in the nursery.”

Sol settled the bill despite Tyanna’s protests, leaving a tip that made Helena’s eyebrows rise. For someone centuries old, he’d adapted remarkably well to modern customs—especially generous tipping.

After final hugs and promises to bring the twins for a visit once they arrived, Sol guided Helena outside to where his gleaming fire-red convertible waited. Helena still got a little flutter in her stomach every time she saw him with the car—all that raw masculine power behind the wheel made her wolf purr with appreciation.

“Need help?” Sol asked, his hand steady at her lower back.

Helena shook her head. “I’ve mastered the art of lowering this whale-sized body into a sports car.”

Sol growled playfully as he helped her in any way. “My beautiful Luna.” His eyes darkened with desire as he leaned in to steal a kiss.

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