Page 79 of Plus-Size Bullied Mate

Caleb eventually sobers, and his expression becomes more serious. “You’ll be a good father, Hunter.”

The words are simple yet honest, and the teasing fades naturally.

I look around at the men standing beside me, who have fought by my side numerous times and have always shown up for me. It’s what we do for one another, and I never thought I’d have that.

“Thanks.”

Zane clears his throat. “That was enough sincerity.”

“Agreed,” Dominic says.

“But if it feels more like normalcy, Hayes is still out there somewhere,” Zane says, reminding us about the thing left unfinished.

I pull in a breath, aware of how the mood shifts slightly, but not into dark territory at least. “That he is… but he’s been quiet so far.”

“It’s anyone’s guess how long that will last,” Caleb adds.

“But, I imagine he’ll have a lot to answer for now,” I murmur, able to see clearly in my mind how unsettled the other Wraith Peak wolves seemed when he lost.

Hayes didn’t just lose, though. His challenge failed, and his authority suffered as a result. His reputation took a hit that no alpha can afford, and if he doesn’t do something, they’ll start challenging him just like they did to his father.

“His wolves will be questioning him,” Luke says.

“As they should,” Dominic mutters.

“He’s going to have his hands full,” Caleb hums, not looking concerned whatsoever.

“Then I hope he’s ready to face it. I’m just glad it’s him and not one of us.”

They all nod their agreement, and for the first time in months, I’m not filled with dread at the thought of him.

Hayes is still dangerous and unpredictable, which likely won’t ever change. But he’s no longer the center of my life, and I refuse to let him dictate my future.

I have better things to focus on… much better things.

***

Hours later, the gathering begins winding down, and the hall gradually empties. Laughter fades, and conversations drift away as the others start heading home.

It’s a bit of a relief when Tessa and I eventually slip outside, greeted by the cool night air. The moon hangs high above the trees, lighting the way as we aim for the house. For a while, neither of us speaks. Instead, we walk together as my arm settles around her shoulders.

Her hand rests over the subtle curve of her stomach, which isn’t fully showing yet, and I find myself staring, as the reality of it still feels surreal.

Our child is growing inside her now, and it’s more than I ever could’ve asked for.

Tessa follows my gaze, and her lips curve lightly. “You’ve been doing that a lot.”

“Doing what?”

“Looking like you’re trying to convince yourself this is real.”

I laugh quietly, my smile turning a bit more bashful. “Maybe I am. I wasn’t sure if I’d ever make it this far.

Tessa stops walking and turns toward me while moonlight catches in her eyes. “I used to be scared of the future. I always thought there wasn’t a place for me here, given everything.”

Expression softening, I brush a strand of hair behind her ear. “There always was, we just needed to work out the details.”

She smiles softly. “Maybe… I just couldn’t see it at the time. But it’s different now.”