Page 66 of Bonding with the Beta

The sound of Ava screaming bellows into the hall, and I flinch. I hate knowing how distressed she is, but at least she’s with Jaxon now. Soon, they’ll welcome their baby girl into the world, and this will all be a distant memory.

I slip my fingers from Kayden’s, but I immediately miss the warmth of his touch. I straighten in my seat, and he does the same.

“Is this a really shallow moment to say that I’m really glad I’m not a woman?” he asks.

I roll my eyes at him. “Most men wouldn’t be able to last five minutes trying to give birth.”

“You’re probably right.” He chuckles.

“I’m always right,” I say and pin him with a stare.

He narrows his eyes. “Not with the bet. Remember?”

“Of course.”

“I’m going to win,” he drawls cockily.

I scoff. “Not going to happen. I’ve known Ava since I was a child. I know her better than anyone.”

“We’ll see.” He winks.

We wait for another hour or so until the door in front of us cracks open, and Jaxon emerges. From the outside, he looks like a tough guy, but right now, with his bloodshot eyes and red circles, my heart strains, wondering if something has happened to Ava.

Then he smiles, and I finally take a breath. Kayden leans forward as I do with anticipation.

“Do you want to come and meet her?” he asks, his voice sounding fragile.

We both nod. “If that’s okay with you guys.”

Jaxon cracks another smile. “Of course.”

I’m on my feet as I speed towards the maternity room. Jaxon steps aside as I poke my head in to find their baby between Ava’s arms. She glances up at me and smiles weakly.

“How are you doing?” I ask as I reach the side of her bed.

Kayden congratulates Jaxon behind me.

Ava nods with teary eyes. “Really well,” she breathes, glancing down at their precious baby between her arms.

My throat tenses when I look down at her perfect little face. I gasp and hold my hands to my chest, keeping my tears from falling. “Oh, my goodness,” I gasp. “She’s so beautiful.”

“I know.” Ava sniffles as Jaxon settles by her other side and kisses her temple.

Kayden stands behind me and nods in agreement. “She’s adorable, guys.”

Ava’s finger traces her cheek gently.

“What are you guys going to name her?” I ask curiously.

Kayden’s eyes flick to the side of my face for a long moment.

“Aurora Lilly Harper.”

My heart aches at the cutest name I’ve ever heard, and I grin back at them with joy. “It’s perfect,” I whisper. “Congratulations, guys. I’m so happy for you. Ava, you’re a superwoman.”

Jaxon hums in agreement. “She did so well.”

“Actually…” Ava trails off as she flicks her eyes between us. “We wanted to ask you guys something.”

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