Page 89 of The Reluctant Alpha

"Now I'm trying to survive supernatural politics and pregnancy hormones." I propped myself up on one elbow to look at him. "But I wouldn't change it. Not any of it."

His expression softened, and he pulled me down for a gentle kiss. "Neither would I."

"Even the part where I'm going to eat everything, get enormously fat, and blame you entirely?"

"Especially that part." He grinned. "You'll be beautiful carrying our cub."

I rolled my eyes but couldn't hide my smile. "You're biased."

"Completely," he agreed without hesitation.

We fell silent for a while, comfortable in each other's arms. “I need to contact the school tomorrow. Theres a good chance I have to work through my notice.” I thought about that. “Unless I can get a sick note. Didn’t Em have a shifter doctor? Can’t he do something?”

Bayer pulled me closer, pressing a kiss to my temple. "You're brilliant, you know that?"

"I have my moments," I conceded with a yawn, snuggled against his hard body. I doubt if I was even awake while Bayer cleaned us up.

Chapter twenty-two

Danny

When I woke the next morning, Bayer was already up, his side of the bed still warm. I stretched, feeling a pleasant soreness from our reconciliation last night. Twice.

"Morning," Bayer's deep voice came from the doorway. He was carrying a steaming mug that smelled like herbal tea rather than coffee, thank fucking holy goodness.

"Is that ginger tea?" I asked, cautiously propping myself up on my elbows.

He nodded, crossing to sit beside me on the bed. "Esther said it might help with the morning sickness."

"So thoughtful," I murmured, accepting the mug. "And yet I notice you're keeping a safe distance in case I projectile vomit on you."

His lips twitched. "Tactical positioning."

I sipped the tea, pleased when my stomach didn't immediately revolt. "So, what's on the alpha agenda today? More planning for the supernatural summit?"

"Phoenix is handling most of that." Bayer's eyes studied my face, searching for any sign of discomfort. "I thought we might do something else."

"If you're about to suggest bed rest, I will throw this tea at you."

He laughed, the sound warming me more than the hot drink. "Actually, I was thinking we could look at the school space with Emery. Start planning what you'll need."

My heart gave a little skip. "Really?"

"Really." His expression turned serious. "I know yesterday was...a lot. But this is something positive we can focus on. Something for our future."

The simple sincerity in his voice made my throat tight. I set the tea aside and reached for his hand.

"I'd like that," I said softly. "Though fair warning—once you get me started on educational supplies, I might never stop."

"I'm counting on it." Bayer squeezed my hand gently. "There's something else we should discuss too."

"The revenant?" I guessed, my momentary lightness fading.

"The Gathering," he corrected. "There are...protocols. Things you should know."

I nodded, sitting up straighter. "Hit me with the supernatural etiquette lesson."

"First, each species has their own customs and expectations. Wolves are direct, bears value strength but also restraint, mountain lions prize diplomacy, and jaguars..." He hesitated.