Chapter 56

Adam

I wake up with a jolt, my heart in my throat. Was finding Alyssa alive and in my arms just a dream? A fantasy made up by my grieving mind?

I open my eyes. She’s there - bathed in the morning light, sleeping peacefully beside me. Relief crashes over me as memories of last night come rushing back. I almost lost her because I was stupid enough to think I could make it on my own. But now her mark is burned into my soul, as eternal as the sunrise.

Alyssa stirs, looking up at me with a smile as radiant as the dawn. In that moment I vow to spend the rest of my life proving I deserve to stand as her mate. I’ll never leave her side again.

Sophia’s cries echo from down the hall. Alyssa gets up, the silk sheet slipping down to bare her amber skin. I follow them both, my heart damn near bursting. Alyssa lifts Sophia from the crib, singing her a lullaby. I’m filled with awe and gratitude for the family I’ve been given back against all odds.

We made it through the night. The day spreads out b