Darkness Chapter 43: Big Reveal

**Nelly**

It has been nearly a month since the life-changing news of my pregnancy. As we make our way to Quinn's pack, a wave of nerves washes over me.

"I'm nervous," I admit to Vincent, who flashes me a reassuring smile and gives my thigh a comforting squeeze.

Upon our arrival, we are greeted by Quinn and Sally. "Hi, Nelly!" Sally exclaims with a bright smile.

"Hey, sweetie. How are you?" I ask, genuinely interested in her well-being.

"Better now that you are here," Sally responds, her words touching my heart.

I decided to surprise Sally with a gift. "Oh, I have something for you. Vincent, could you grab the bag from the backseat?" Vincent plants a kiss on my forehead before retrieving the bag from the car and handing it to Sally. "I hope you like it."

Quinn places a hand on my shoulder, expressing his gratitude. "You didn't have to do that, Nelly."

"I don't mind," I reply, feeling a sense of joy in giving.

Sally's excitement is palpable as she jumps up and down. "I love it! Thank you, Nelly," she exclaims before running up to hug me. "Daddy, look at what Nelly gave me!"

Quinn chuckles at the sight of the gift. "A stuffed wolf? Seriously?"

I wink playfully. "She likes it. I thought it was cute. I'll bring her a doll next time."

Quinn shakes his head in amusement. "You'll spoil her," he teases, the love and warmth of the moment filling the air.

Vincent's arms envelop me from behind, his voice low and tense as he murmurs, "She's getting practice in."

Quinn nods in agreement, his expression serious. "Let's get you checked out." Leading us to a nearby building, we are greeted by an older woman whose warm smile does little to ease Vincent's unease. As she instructs me to lie down, Vincent bristles, his protective instincts kicking in as he tries to intervene.

Quinn quickly grabs, calming Vincent with a reassuring touch. "Relax. I wouldn't put her in danger, you know that."

Vincent exhales heavily, his eyes never leaving the woman. "Sorry. I just don't like anyone touching her."

Quinn offers a comforting pat on Vincent's back. "I understand, man. Just let her do her job."

As I lay there, my trust in Quinn solidified, though not as strong as my trust in Alec and Vincent. Brandon, who would have been in Quinn's position, remains a question mark due to Tara's influence. I don't believe he would betray me to the Resistance, but uncertainty lingers in the air.

Vincent moves to my side, gently taking my hand in his. The mysterious woman resumes her work, her intentions shrouded in secrecy. She flashes a warm smile in my direction before turning to Quinn, who nods in approval. "Okay, she's done," Quinn announces.

"So?" Vincent inquires eagerly.

Quinn's smile widens. "Your child is strong and healthy. The baby is due in four months."

"What?" I gasp in disbelief.

Quinn nonchalantly shrugs. "We aren't like everyone else."

"Well, you certainly aren't," I retort playfully. Vincent chuckles, but Quinn shoots me a stern look.

Amidst the laughter, Vincent queries, "Can she determine the gender of the baby?"

Quinn shakes his head. "Not yet, but by next month, she will be able to."

"How soon will I start showing?" I ask anxiously.

Quinn's grin widens. "I'd say very soon. Definitely by next month."

"By the way, thank you for allowing us to have our wedding here," I express my gratitude.

Quinn squeezes my shoulder reassuringly. "You're welcome. Consider it a part of my gift to both of you." I am beginning to realize that the Darkness is not as ominous as I had been led to believe. There is more light and love here than in the world before the war.

As we made our way back to the main house, Sally came running towards us, her breath ragged and her expression filled with fear. Quinn immediately inquired, "Sally, where's Chris?"

"He went off with Beau and Liam. I overheard them mentioning something about rebels," she replied.

Quinn cursed under his breath. "Take her inside. I need to find them!"

"I'll accompany you. Nelly, stay with her. Head to the house. I trust you to keep them safe," Vincent interjected.

"Please, be careful," I pleaded.

Quinn smirked. "I knew you cared, doll."

"Fuck off!" I exclaimed as Quinn dashed off towards the woods, with Vincent close behind. "Come on, Sally. Let's get inside," I urged, gripping her hand tightly. Once indoors, we settled on the couch, and Sally's tears began to flow.

"Will he be okay?" she asked, her voice trembling.

"Yes, they will both be fine. Those men will locate your friends. Everyone will be safe. Why don't you tell me about your wolf?" I suggested trying to distract her. As she began to share details about her wolf, a sudden commotion erupted outside.

"Stay here," I instructed, my heart racing with anticipation.

I rise from my seat and immediately notice two suspicious figures lurking in the shadows. Their appearance is out of place, and the glint of guns in their hands sends a shiver down my spine. As I focus on their attire, I spot a familiar emblem emblazoned on one of their shirts and blood. Without hesitation, I instruct the remaining individuals in the room to protect Sally and seek refuge.

"Who are you?" I demand, my voice steady despite the fear creeping into my heart.

The shorter man retorts, "Who are you?"

"It's time for you to leave," I assert, my eyes locked on the intruders.

The older man interjects, "We should take her. She may possess valuable information."

A scoff escapes my lips. "Not a chance, dumb and dumber. Perhaps I should inform Greg that his lackeys are treading on dangerous ground."

Finally, the shorter man meets my gaze. "Are you one of those wolf creatures?"

"They're werewolves, you fucking moron," I correct him sharply. These two keep getting stupider by the minute.

The other man tilts his head in curiosity. "Then what are you?"

"Why does it matter to you?" I challenge, my tone laced with defiance and determination.

I step out to where the men are. I can smell the alcohol on them as they surround me. “So are you gonna come easy or are you gonna make this hard?” the short guy asked.

I laugh. “Nothing is easy. Well, except putting weak ass men on their knees.”