But Hyde knew the way. Followed some internal compass that kept them on course.
She let herself relax, trusting him completely. The baby kicked, a strong flutter against her ribs, and Hyde’s rumble changed pitch and became almost questioning.
“The baby’s just moving around,” she explained.
He adjusted his grip slightly, one hand spreading wider over her back in a protective gesture, and her throat tightened. “You already love this baby, don’t you? Both of you.”
Another rumble, this one unmistakably affirmative.
“Thank you,” she whispered. “For choosing us. For being brave enough to let me in.”
Hyde’s pace never faltered but she felt his chest expand. Like he was breathing in her words. Holding them close.
The journey felt both endless and too short. She wanted to memorize every moment. The feeling of being cradled against that massive chest. The sound of Hyde’s breathing. The way he navigated the treacherous terrain without a single misstep.
This was trust in its purest form.
And love.
So much love it made her chest ache.
The town appeared gradually. First the outlying buildings, and his house. Their new home.
Hyde carried her up the steps and set her down gently on the porch before placing her suitcase beside her. Then he stepped back. The transformation reversed. Smooth and controlled. Green skin fading. Muscles shrinking. Bones resettling with barely a sound.
Victor emerged breathing hard but steady. Completely present.
He smiled at her. “You okay?”
“I’m perfect. That was incredible.”
“You weren’t scared at all.”
“Not even a little.” She reached for his hand and laced their fingers together. “How could I be scared of something so beautiful?”
His eyes went suspiciously bright before he pulled her close. Kissed her with fierce tenderness.
“Come inside,” he said against her mouth. “Let me show you our home.”
Our home.
The words sent warmth flooding through her.
He unlocked the door and ushered her inside, through the familiar entrance hall and upstairs to his private quarters.
“Living room,” he said, gesturing. “There’s a small kitchen through there, as well as the larger one downstairs. A bathroom down the hall, along with?—”
He stopped and looked at her nervously.
“What is it?” she asked.
“The bedrooms.” He rubbed the back of his neck. “I know we haven’t really talked about sleeping arrangements. If you want your own space?—”
“I don’t.”
The relief on his face was immediate. “You’re sure?”
“Very.” She stepped closer. “I want to sleep beside you. Wake up beside you. Be with you.”
