The morning light filtered through the canopy of trees, casting gentle golden rays onto the path leading to Aiden's home. Selena stood at the edge of the forest, her heart pounding in her chest. Today was a significant day, one that had been in the back of her mind for weeks. She was about to visit Aiden's family for the first time.
Though she had known Aiden for a while now, she had never met his wife or children. And today, she was stepping into a world that was completely foreign to her—a world of warmth, laughter, and familial bonds. The thought made her uneasy. After all, she had grown up without a real family. The Silver Moon Pack had always treated her as an outsider, and she had never known the sense of belonging that others seemed to take for granted.
But things had changed. She wasn't that weak omega anymore. She had learned so much over the years—about strength, resilience, and love. And now, she wanted to understand what it felt like to be a part of something that didn't just use her for her strength but cherished her for who she truly was.
Taking a deep breath, Selena began her walk toward Aiden's home. As she approached, she could hear the faint sound of children laughing and the low murmur of voices. The scent of fresh bread and something savory filled the air. It smelled like home. Her heart ached with the thought, but she pushed it aside. Today wasn't about her past. Today was about the future.
She walked through the front gate and onto the porch, where Aiden's wife, Clara, was waiting for her. Clara was a striking woman, with long, dark hair that cascaded down her back in waves and eyes that shone with warmth and kindness. She smiled at Selena as she stepped forward.
"Selena, it's so good to finally meet you in person," Clara said, her voice gentle yet strong.
Selena offered a small smile, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. "Thank you for having me. Aiden has spoken so highly of you."
Clara chuckled softly. "I think he's being generous. He's always had a soft spot for you." She reached out and pulled Selena into a warm hug, one that Selena hadn't realized she needed so desperately until now.
"Welcome to our home," Clara said as she stepped back. "I'm so glad you could join us today. The kids are excited to meet you."
Before Selena could respond, two children rushed past, their laughter ringing through the air. A boy and a girl, both with Aiden's dark hair and bright eyes, came to an abrupt halt in front of Selena, their faces filled with curiosity.
"You must be the lady Aiden talks about all the time!" the boy said, his eyes wide with excitement.
Selena knelt down to their level, a warm smile forming on her lips. "I suppose I am. And you must be the little troublemakers Aiden says are always running around."
The girl giggled, her hands resting on her hips. "We're not troublemakers, we're adventurers!"
Selena chuckled, her heart swelling with affection. The children were everything she had imagined a family could be—full of life, energy, and love. She felt a wave of emotion wash over her, but she held it in check, not wanting to overwhelm them with her feelings.
"I'm glad to meet you both," Selena said warmly. "What are your names?"
"I'm Evan," the boy said proudly, puffing out his chest.
"And I'm Lily!" the girl chimed in, spinning around in excitement.
"Well, Evan and Lily, it's a pleasure to meet you," Selena said. She stood up and exchanged a glance with Clara, who was smiling at the interaction. "Your father tells me you're both very strong."
Evan grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "We are! We're training to be the best warriors in the pack!"
Clara chuckled. "They've been training with Aiden since they could walk. He's determined to make sure they're ready for anything."
Selena's heart fluttered. Aiden had always been a strong, fierce protector of his family, but seeing him as a father made her realize just how much depth there was to him. His love for Clara and their children was evident in everything he did, and Selena felt a sense of warmth spread through her as she realized how much she admired him—not just as a leader or a warrior, but as a man who had created a home built on love and loyalty.
As the morning continued, Selena spent time getting to know Clara and the children. They ate breakfast together, with Clara insisting that Selena try her homemade bread, which was warm and delicious. The children showed Selena their favorite games and toys, and she couldn't help but laugh as they tried to teach her how to play tag.
Later, they all went outside to the garden, where Aiden joined them after finishing his morning duties. Watching him interact with his family made something stir in Selena's chest. He was kind, patient, and attentive—a stark contrast to the aloof Alpha Ryker had once been.
"Do you like it here?" Clara asked, her voice soft as she stood next to Selena by the flowers.
Selena nodded, feeling more at ease than she had in a long time. "I do. It's… different. It's everything I never had, but always wanted."
Clara smiled, her expression full of understanding. "You're always welcome here, Selena. This is your family now, too."
Selena felt a lump form in her throat. She had never known such unconditional acceptance. In this moment, surrounded by the laughter and love of Aiden's family, she realized that she wasn't just an outsider anymore. She had found a place where she truly belonged.
The day passed in a blur of laughter, shared stories, and the comfort of being around people who cared. It wasn't just about Aiden's family—it was about a sense of belonging that Selena had never known but always longed for. As the sun began to set, casting a warm orange glow over the landscape, Selena sat with Clara and watched the children play with Aiden.
For the first time in years, Selena felt a deep sense of peace settle over her heart. She had come to Aiden's home as a stranger, but she left knowing that, no matter where her journey took her, she would always have a place here.
And for that, she was truly grateful