Three days had passed, and the Elders demanded an answer from Aldrich.
Aldrich stood before the council of Elders, his voice filled with conviction. He assured them that Maggie couldn’t be a Lunarisvampires, and the unborn child she carried was undoubtedly his. He maintained a mind link with the growing pups, ensuring that the connection couldn’t be broken.
The solemn Elders were in the center of the hall, with Aldrich’s unwavering support for Maggie behind them. On the other side, the FrostMoon Pack exuded an icy, intimidating aura, led by Ethan, whose gaze remained fixed on Maggie.
“Now, tell us the results. Who is the father of Miss Maggie Nelson’s twins?” one of the Elders spoke up.
Aldrich gently squeezed Maggie’s hand, reassuring her. He confidently stepped forward and addressed the Elders and the gathered pack members, saying, “Respected Elders and members of the pack, please allow me some time to present all the facts before you.”
Aldrich’s assistant, Charlie, began by playing the video from the day Maggie got pregnant, demonstrating how Ethan had swapped the sperm. The crucial moment was paused to prove that it was Aldrich’s sperm used for fertilization, silently confirming Aldrich as the father of the children.
“No, this can’t be! I have the right to doubt the authenticity of this video!” Ethan couldn’t contain his outburst.
One of the Elders interjected, “Please be quiet and let Aldrich Barrett finish his statement!”
Facing Ethan’s madness, Aldrich remained composed. “Furthermore, after Maggie successfully got pregnant, our mind link strengthened gradually. Without any prior preparation, she found me through the baby’s guidance while I was hunting. I could sense her emotions more keenly, knowing her true thoughts.”
The committee members listened intently, wisdom reflected on their weathered faces. These pups were less than a month old, yet they possessed extraordinary abilities to form a mental connection. Excitement sparkled in their eyes, as this gift revealed unprecedented power deep within them.
Another Elder inquired, “What about the inability to detect Maggie’s genes? Why is her power so strong? Is it related to Selene?”
Aldrich answered cautiously, “I understand the Elders’ concerns about the safety of our pack and the fear of Maggie’s immense power. But I can responsibly assure all the wolves that Maggie is not a malicious Lunarisvampires. She loves the sunlight, enjoys sweet treats, and cherishes all things bright and beautiful. Her connection with the Energy Orb signifies that she is a lucky star for our kind.”
Most Elders did not sense any Lunarisvampires aura around Maggie, and they showed increased care and protection towards her.
Ethan, watching Aldrich regain control of the situation, revealed a sly smile and said, “The powers and value within Maggie might not be fabricated. But can we truly believe Aldrich’s claims about a mind link with the baby and the so-called video evidence from the hospital, all without solid proof? Need I remind everyone of how brutal the contest for the Alpha King can be? Without concrete evidence, I have reason to suspect deception by Aldrich. The FrostMoon Pack will obey my orders to defend what is rightfully mine!”
Ethan’s attempt to switch the sperm sample left some of the Elders discontented. However, as the son of the FrostMoon Pack Alpha, Ethan had a significant number of supporters. The Elders had to take this into consideration.
Finally, after careful deliberation, the Elders made a decision: “To gain full trust and eliminate doubts, the best course of action is to conduct a parentage DNA test after the birth of the pups. This is the only way to prove the truth beyond any doubt.”
Aldrich’s gaze met that of the council, his determination unwavering. “I assure the respected Elders that once the pups are born, their lineage will be unequivocally confirmed. The truth will be unveiled, ensuring the right path for our pack.”
The council members nodded, their faces filled with hope and expectation. The fate of the pack depended on the forthcoming birth, an event that would serve as a beacon of truth and unity, carrying great responsibility on their shoulders.
Maggie watched anxiously, her eyes on Aldrich. “My feelings, as well as those of the babies, tell me you are their father, but I fear there might be more twists to come.”
“As long as we stand firmly together and face whatever comes our way, there’s nothing to be afraid of,” Aldrich assured Maggie, while simultaneously locking eyes with Ethan on the other side of the room.
In that glance, determination and fierceness clashed, laden with the intensity of a life-and-death struggle.
As Maggie’s pregnancy progressed, she found herself growing restless within the confines of Barrett Manor. With Aldrich’s consent, she decided to gift some of the garden’s flowers to Mrs. Jenkins, her former employer and the owner of a local flower shop.
Due to Aldrich’s concerns for her safety and Ethan’s looming threats, every outing was carefully planned. Staff arranged for vehicles and security guards to ensure Maggie’s safety. However, Maggie chose to have the car stop a block away from the flower shop.
As Maggie entered the store, a wave of fragrance enveloped her senses. She had returned, but this time, she carried even more delicate and beautiful flowers. The arrival of these vibrant blooms injected new life into the shop, drawing the attention of curious customers and igniting a lively atmosphere.
Mrs. Jenkins was a wise and vivacious lady who welcomed Maggie with a warm smile. “Back again, my dear? And with such precious, exquisite flowers. You’ve brought joy to my store.”
Maggie returned the smile, her eyes radiating satisfaction and anticipation. “Mrs. Jenkins, I can’t resist sharing the beauty of the garden with you and your customers. These flowers seem to thrive under my care, just like the little blossoms in my belly.”
Under Aldrich’s attentive care, Maggie exuded a natural radiance, her pregnant figure a testament to the power and beauty of life. The shop’s customers were captivated by her presence, drawn by her vibrant energy and undeniable charm.
Mrs. Jenkins, an experienced florist who had dedicated her life to floral art, couldn’t help but notice the extraordinary vitality of the flowers under Maggie’s meticulous care. She admired Maggie’s nurturing nature and the undeniable life force that seemed to permeate every petal.
“My dear, I’ve sold flowers for a lifetime,” Mrs. Jenkins said, her voice tinged with admiration and affection. “I must say, under your care, these flowers possess more vitality and radiance than any I’ve ever seen. I adore you, Maggie, and I find myself quite fond of the little one in your belly too.”
Maggie’s heart swelled with warmth, moved by Mrs. Jenkins’ kind words and genuine emotions. In this humble flower shop, she not only found a place to share the beauty of her garden but also a sense of belonging that transcended bloodlines and tribal boundaries.