Page 114 of My Knotty Mountain Men

A wide grin takes over my face. “Give me your hands,” I say, grabbing them and placing them on my belly.

I watch as all three of their eyes widen in awe as they feel our baby moving for the first time.

“Holy shit,” Aiden says.

“Wow,” Thomas whispers.

“Damn, they have a good kick.” Nolan chuckles.

“Amazing, isn’t it?” I ask, still grinning like crazy.

“Best feeling ever.” Aiden murmurs.

Thomas gets down to his knees and presses his cheek to my belly. He chuckles a moment later. “So strong.” He turns his head. “Love you, Little Bean.”

“Fitting name. They’re like a little jumping bean in here.” Nolan chuckles.

With my heart so full, we all stay in this moment for a little while, not moving until the baby stops.

This is everything I’ve ever wanted, and I thank the lucky stars for bringing me my dream pack.

Seeing my friends again has been amazing. We spent the night staying up late, talking, watching movies, and just having girl time.

They obsessed over my belly, unable to keep their hands off it. Normally, I don’t like anyone but my pack touching my belly, but in a way, they're part of my pack. They’re my family and nothing has ever felt more right.

I told them what happened with Sylvia, and let’s just say it took everything in Jenny not to go out and find where she lives so she could, and I quote, ‘Beat that crazy bitch’s ass’.

Rylee wanted to set her house on fire. That got her a few shocked looks. But my Omega bestie is a little on the crazy side.

Poor Jenny has her hands full with that one.

I see a change in them. The way Jenny looks at Rylee more when Rylee isn’t looking. If I didn’t know any better, I think my Alpha bestie is starting to realize some things about herself. Whatever happens, I'm here for them both and want nothing but happiness for them.

The house is filled with family, and I stand back, watching our guests with a smile. Aiden’s mom, dads, and sister are here. As well as her daughter, Aubrey. Aiden’s been on Aubrey patrol because the little cutie-pie kept trying to get into the cupcakes.

Now she’s running around, laughing her head off as Aiden chases her. I might have given her one of the cupcakes without anyone knowing. But come on, how was I going to say no to her cute little face?

And the girl knows how to pull at my heartstrings. She called me Auntie Vi. There was no hope for me after that. I had to. It would be a crime if I didn’t.

“How are you doing, sweetheart?” I look over to see Aiden’s mom, who’s coming to stand next to me.

“Good,” I tell her honestly. Today has been the best day. We played games, laughed, talked, and just enjoyed each other's company. “It’s all new, you know?” I tell her, looking out at the group of smiling faces. “I’m not used to this. My parents passed when I was a teenager, and my nana not long after. Apart from my best friends, I’ve been alone most of my life. I don’t have any siblings; no aunts, uncles, or cousins that I know of. So my family was just those girls.” I turn back to smile at her. “Until I met your son's pack.”

She smiles back. “Apart from those men, you're the best thing that's ever happened to him. You're everything he dreamed of.”

My throat clogs with emotions. “Same goes for the pack with me.” I rub my belly. “None of this happened how I thought it would. But apart from... well, you know.” I sigh, anger bubblingwithin me as I think about Sylvia. “I wouldn’t change it.” Okay, so maybe being away from them for those three months could have been done without, but I can’t change the past, nor will I focus on that.

“We’re lucky to have you as a part of the family. And once those men stop hogging you so much, we would love to spend more time with you.” Her laugh is carefree, making me smile.

“I would love that.”

“Alright, Sweets. Are you ready to find out what we’re having?” Nolan asks as he joins us.

“Yes!” I grin brightly. “Let’s go.”

He chuckles as I pull him towards the door.

“Alright, everyone, outside!” Aiden shouts. “Let’s find out!”

---