Page 71 of The Alpha's Auctioned Pregnant Mate

Articus couldn't help but feel a sense of unfinished business, a nagging feeling that this chapter wasn't truly closed.

He knew that as long as places like that existed, as long as there were those who saw others as nothing more than commodities to be bought and sold, there could never truly bepeace between the territories. His wolf growled at the thought, demanding justice, demanding change.

But that was a battle for another day. For now, he had Wren back in his arms, their unborn child safe and sound. And he silently vowed that he would do whatever it took to keep them both safe, to create a world where their child could grow up without fear.

The city lights faded behind them, replaced by the rugged landscape of Cassius's territory. Wren relaxed against Articus, her breathing evening out as she fell asleep, exhausted by the ordeal. He marveled at her strength, at how she could find peace even after all she'd been through.

He pressed a gentle kiss to the top of her head, his mind racing with all that had happened. The revelation of her pregnancy, the misunderstanding that had driven her away, the terror of thinking he might lose them both... it was almost too much to process.

But as he held her close, feeling the steady beat of her heart against his chest, Articus knew one thing with absolute certainty—he loved this woman. And he would spend the rest of his life making sure she never doubted that again.

The car wound its way through the darkened streets, carrying them toward Cassius's fortress. Articus gazed out at the passing scenery, allowing himself to hope. Hope for forgiveness, for understanding, for a chance to build the family he never knew he wanted.

There would be explanations to give, wounds to heal, and trust to rebuild. But for now, in this quiet moment with Wren safe in his arms, Articus felt a peace he hadn't known in days.

They approached the imposing gates of Cassius's fortress, the guards quickly recognizing their Alpha and waving themthrough. Articus gently shook Wren awake as they pulled up to the main entrance.

"We're here," he murmured softly.

She blinked up at him, momentary confusion clouding her features before recognition set in. "Oh," she said softly. "I... I thought it might have been a dream."

The vulnerability in her voice tugged at his heart. "No dream," he assured her, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "You're safe now. I've got you."

He helped her out of the car, keeping a supportive arm around her waist as they made their way into the fortress. The few pack members milling about at this late hour cast curious glances their way, but a warning look from Cassius kept them from approaching.

Abigail and a petite woman with kind eyes and graying hair hurried toward them. "Alpha Cassius," she said, bowing her head slightly. "You're back. Is this—"

"Yes, Elara," Cassius interrupted gently. "This is Wren. She needs medical attention."

The woman—evidently Cassius's pack healer—nodded briskly. "Of course. Follow me, please."

She led them through the winding corridors of the fortress to a well-equipped medical wing. Articus hesitated at the door of the exam room. "Do you want me to stay?" he asked Wren softly.

She bit her lip, indecision clear in her eyes. Finally, she nodded. "Please. I... I don't want to be alone right now."

Relief flooded through him. He took her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze as Elara began her examination.

The next hour passed in a blur of medical tests and gentle questions. Articus never left Wren's side, offering silent support as Elara confirmed what they already knew—Wren was indeed pregnant, about six weeks along.

"The baby looks healthy," Elara assured them with a warm smile. "And you're in good shape, too, Wren. I'm a bit dehydrated and in need of a good meal, but otherwise, I’m fine. I want you to take it easy for the next few days, though. Your body's been through a lot of stress."

Wren nodded, her hand unconsciously moving to rest on her still-flat stomach. Articus felt a lump form in his throat at the gesture.

Elara finished up, giving them some pamphlets on prenatal care and instructions for follow-up care. Articus finally allowed himself to relax fully. Wren was safe. Their baby was healthy. They had weathered this storm.

But he knew they weren't out of the woods yet. There were still so many things left unsaid between them, so many misunderstandings to clear up.

They left the medical wing, and Articus turned to Wren. "Are you hungry? I could have the kitchen prepare something for you."

She shook her head. "Honestly, I'm exhausted. I just want to sleep in a real bed."

He nodded, understanding. "Of course. Cassius has prepared a room for us."

Cassius led them to a luxurious guest suite, assuring them they were welcome to stay as long as they needed. The room was spacious and comfortable, with a large bed dominating the center.

"Do you want me to run you a bath?" Articus asked, suddenly feeling awkward. "Or I could get you some tea?"

Wren shook her head, a small smile playing on her lips. "Art, stop fussing. I'm okay, really. I just need some sleep."

---