Page 16 of Forbidden Bliss

IarriveatEthan’sbirthday dinner, my chest heavy with dread. The whole Wolfe pack should be here at The Blake Lake Las Vegas, along with their spouses—Ethan and Ava, Fiona with Jonathan, and Devin and Maya. Even Zack and Bianca said they’d come.

I’m the only sibling who’s arriving alone. The isolation gnaws at me, making the vibrant chatter at the upscale restaurant feel loud and mocking.

Ethan strides across the lobby of the restaurant, his tailored Italian suit stressing his muscular frame. A wide, welcoming smile softens his sharp features as he claps a hand on my shoulder. “Tristan! There you are!”

After handing him a wrapped present, I give him a solid embrace. “Happy Birthday, brother.”

From outside on the veranda, Fiona’s bright smile catches my eye as she waves at me, her hand moving gracefully through the air.

The veranda is lit with twinkling lights and lanterns, creating a cozy, magical atmosphere. The lake glistens in the moonlight, reflecting the stars above.

Fiona is wearing a flowy floral dress, her hand holding tightly onto Jonathan’s as they stand close together. They look happy and inseparable. “Come join us!”

I force a smile, moving towards everyone. Part of me is happy to see them, but the other part would rather pull a blanket over my head.

How can I face my family after my failed trip? I feel like I’m coming back with my tail between my legs instead of providing a home for Willow and my daughter.

The atmosphere is warm with laughter and the soft clinking of glasses, but it doesn’t calm my nerves.

Ethan pulls out a chair for Ava, who’s already outside. She giggles and leans into him. Her growing belly looks slightly bigger than the last time I saw her.

As I stand with them, I struggle to make small talk. My questions lack creativity and enthusiasm. “So, when are you due?”

Ava holds her round belly and glances between me and Ethan. “December 2nd.”

I nod, trying to mask my discomfort with a forced smile. “Ah, a Christmas baby. How ideal.”

As I gaze at Ethan, a pang of envy hits me. He gets to experience the miracle of childbirth and be there for his child’s first breaths—something I never got to do. Averting my gaze, I hide any trace of pain.

Devin and Maya sit close together, their faces animated as they discuss their latest eco-project. Their eyes are bright with excitement and their hands are clasped together over a menu.

As I lean in towards my brother and his wife, I notice the way their hands are intertwined on the tablecloth, their fingers fitting together perfectly.

Devin’s navy-blue shirt fits snug against his muscular frame, and he looks happy and relaxed. It’s a rare sight for him. Maya’s expression is soft and full of adoration as she gazes at my brother like he’s the only person in existence.

My teeth grind together before I clear my throat. “Hey, brother. Hi Maya. How are you two doing?”

Devin pushes up from the chair and stands tall, his smile wide as he pulls me into a hug. “Never better. Good to see you!”

Maya’s eyes sparkle as she stands up to greet me too. “I hear you took a trip up north. Isn’t it gorgeous up there?”

A flush sweeps across my cheeks as my chin dips. “Yes, absolutely. It’s uh… great.”

I move on to greet Zack and Bianca, who are chatting about a wild night at one of their clubs, their faces glowing. Bianca’s red lipstick stands out against her tan skin, and Zack’s dark hair is slightly disheveled—perhaps from having fun all night. Their hand gestures and animated expressions add to the visual energy of their conversation.

Zack’s bright smile stretches across his face as he jumps up from his seat to greet me. His arms open wide. “Brother!”

We do a quick man-hug before Bianca, his new wife, laughs and pulls me into an embrace. “I’m so glad you came. I haven’t seen you in forever!”

Her smile is bright, revealing straight, pearly white teeth. Smoothing down her perfect hair, she lifts her chin and turns to the family members with poise. “Everyone has arrived. Let’s celebrate!”

I slip into my seat—the only empty one at the table—and try to immerse myself in the conversation, but it’s hard. Every laugh and every shared glance between couples reminds me of what I’m missing.

The tablecloth is a rich red, and the lighting casts a warm glow over the Wolfe pack as they continue to share more laughter and stories.

It’s ironic. I’m here, surrounded by family, but I’ve never felt more alone.

When the appetizers arrive, the dinner starts with the usual banter, but the conversation quickly shifts to me.

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