Chapter 53

The weeks passed with Dr. Matthias keeping a close watch on my pregnancy. His moving in with us had been a blessing, and he seemed to take it in his stride, not fearing to ask for anything that he needed.

His weekly examinations became a routine part of our lives. The pack respected him for his knowledge and dedication and offered to help him whenever they could.

As my belly grew, so did my anticipation and anxiety. But my friends from school, Lily and Sophia, who I had become distant with, came back into my life and brought with them a welcomed distraction.

They began to visit regularly, their laughter filling our home and the whole compound with a sense of normalcy.

One sunny afternoon, Lily and Sophia dropped by. I greeted them with a warm hug, grateful for their unwavering friendship during this challenging time. They had been a constant source of support and optimism.

Lily and Sophia's visits became a cherished part of my routine, a glimmer of normalcy in a world filled with uncertainty. Their genuine concern and support warmed my heart, and I couldn't help but smile as they sat down in our den, filling the room with their laughter.

Sophia, ever the spirited one, leaned in with a grin. "Beryl, you're positively glowing! How's everything going?"

I returned her smile, feeling their friendship like a soothing balm. "It's been quite the journey but having Dr. Matthias here has definitely made it easier. He’s been amazing, so helpful."

“It’s so lovely that he was able to stay here with you. I can’t imagine him having to travel so far, every week to manage your checkups. He really is an incredible man, isn’t he?” Sophia’s appreciation of the doctor was shared by all who had met him.

Dr. Matthias’ soft smile, and calm demeanor had had an effect on each member of the pack he’d come into contact with. Everyone brightened up when he was around. He really was just a completely positive light in our rocky lives.

Lily, always the empathetic one, nodded in agreement as she squeezed my hand with love. "We're just relieved you're doing okay, Beryl. We've missed you."

“I can’t tell either of you how much it means for me to have you hear. I am so grateful to have you both as my friends. Well, I consider you more family now than friends!” I laughed with these people who I now considered sisters.

During our time apart, the two of them had grown closer, and now that the three of us were back together again, our bond was even stronger for it.

As we settled into natural, and comfortable conversation, my mates, Nicholas, Brian, and Cheney, entered the room, their faces etched with a mix of concern and strained smiles.

Nicholas, the observant one, couldn't hide his unease. "Beryl, how are you feeling today?"

Their attempt to be strong for me was touching, but I could see through their façade. I sighed, my weariness showing through. "I'm managing, love, just a bit tired."

Brian chimed in, his voice gentle yet filled with determination. "We're here for you, Beryl, whatever you need."

Sophia and Lily exchanged a knowing glance, and then Sophia said, "Beryl, we brought something for you."

Lily handed me a beautifully wrapped gift, and I couldn't help but feel a rush of emotion as I unwrapped it to reveal a delicate moonstone bracelet, one that matched my mother’s necklace. My fingers traced the smooth stone, and tears welled up in my eyes.

"It's to remind you of the moon goddess's protection, and the love you have around you." Lily explained. "We wanted you to have a piece of that strength with you. We tried to match your necklace. We just wanted you to know you’re so very loved."

Their thoughtful gesture touched me deeply. "Thank you both. This means more to me than I can express."

Dr. Matthias, our steadfast ally, entered the room, his presence an ever calming influence. "Ah, I see our friends are here. Beryl, dear, it's time for your examination."

I followed him into the adjoining room, my heart heavy with the worry of my mates and the lingering darkness that Dr. Matthias had sensed.

During the examination, the room was filled with tense anticipation. Dr. Matthias, meticulous as ever, checked every detail. When he was finished, he turned to face us, his expression serious.

"The baby is healthy," he began, "but I sense a residual darkness, not as strong as before, but still there."

Nicholas's voice trembled with concern. "What does that mean, Doctor?"

Dr. Matthias explained, "It's as if a small thread of darkness remains, a remnant of what was once there. It poses a lesser risk now, but it's something we must monitor closely."

Cheney's jaw clenched, his worry palpable. "Is there nothing more we can do?"

Dr. Matthias shook his head, his expression grave. "We've done what we can for now. Time will tell if the darkness dissipates completely."

I could tell that my mates struggled to hide their anxiety, and it was Brian who finally voiced their shared concern. "Beryl, we can't help but worry about you and the baby. We want to keep you both safe."

Tears welled up in my eyes as I reached out to them, my heart heavy with their love and concern. "I know, and I appreciate it more than words can say. But we must stay positive and strong."

Nicholas nodded, his eyes filled with determination. "You're right, Beryl. We're in this together."

Sophia and Lily shared a knowing look, and then Sophia spoke with unwavering support, "Beryl, we're here for you too. We'll support you through this, no matter what."

Their words and the presence of those who cared for me offered solace in a time of uncertainty. Though the worry never truly left the room, our bonds of friendship and love would provide the strength needed to face whatever the future held.