Ella’s POV Six months later. I shifted in my chair, trying to find a comfortable position. My belly was enormous now, stretched to its limits with the twins. Every movement felt like an effort, and my back ached constantly. But I couldn’t afford to show weakness. Not here. Not now. “Are you sure you’re up for this?” Alexander’s voice rippled through the bond. “The due date was a week ago, and you look like you’re about to pop.” “I’m fine.” “Ella…” “I’m fine, Alexander.” I could hear his mental sigh, but he understood the reasons for my stubbornness today. The conference room was packed with Alphas from packs across the territories. One slip–up could leave a stain on Stormhollow and Ashclaw’s reputations forever. Alexander was beside me, his hand resting on the table close to mine. He had been my constant support over the past six months as I worked to rebuild Stormhollow. The pack was still separate from Ashclaw–I was an Alpha in my own right now, not just his Luna–but we remained close allies. Some days, it felt like I was juggling several full–time jobs. Being a mother to Lucien. Leading Stormhollow. Carrying twins who seemed in no rush to enter the world. It was exhausting, but fulfilling. I’d made more progress than I expected just in the past six months. Stormhollow’s infrastructure was slowly being repaired. More and more pack members trusted me. The financial records had been sorted out, and we were finally operating in the black again. There was still so much work to be done, but I was hopeful. “As I was saying,” Alexander said, his voice cutting through my thoughts, “the experimental treatment we’re proposing has shown promising results in early trials. The regenerative properties in Ella’s blood seem to target cancer cells specifically while leaving healthy tissue intact.” One of the Alphas scoffed. “And we are just supposed to take your word for it? How do we know this isn’t another one of your elaborate schemes?” noveldramaI straightened in my chair. “The doctors have documented every step of the research process. We have lab results, medical reports, peer reviews from independent oncologists. Everything is available for your review.” I gestured to the reports laying in front of the Alphas. “That’s all well and good,” another Alpha said, “but I still find it hard to believe that your blood is as special as you claim. Rebirth? It sounds like something out of a fairytale.” “Like I said,” the first Alpha added, folding his arms, “another elaborate scheme.” I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. Convincing people, especially elder Alphas stuck in their ways, that I was truly Ella and not an imposter, was an uphill battle. 4 +25 Bonus “Look. I’ve provided all the DNA evidence I can,” I said evenly. “I have documentation. Testimonies from reputable sources. Three highly respected doctors have corroborated my story. What else do you want from me?” “Perhaps nothing will ever be enough for some people,” Alexander said before the Alphas could respond. “But that doesn’t change the fact that this treatment could save lives. Refusing to endorse it because of personal doubts about Ella’s identity is a bit short–sighted, don’t you think?” One Alpha bristled. “We’re not refusing anything. We’re simply being cautious.” “Cautious is one thing,” I said. “Obstructive is another beast entirely.” The room fell silent. Several Alphas exchanged glances. I opened my mouth to say something else, but the words lodged in my throat as a sharp pain lanced through me, stealing my breath away. I gasped, pressing my hand to my belly. The pain faded after a moment, leaving behind a dull ache. “Ella?” Alexander’s mental voice was low and full of concern. “Are you alright?” “I’m fine. Continue the-” Another pain hit before I could finish the thought. I gritted my teeth, trying not to make a sound. But my hand tightened on the armrest, and one of the Alphas leaned forward. “You’re not going into labor, are you?” My face flushed. “No, I-” “She’s going into labor.” Another Alpha shot to her feet and pointed. “I know that look. It was the same one I had when I was trying to hide my untimely contractions during my first pregnancy!” “I’m not-” “We’re going to the hospital.” Alexander stood, already moving to help me to my feet. 2/2 adminSara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.