Rian's POV
Watching Luca in pain was the hardest thing I've ever done.
Every scream, every cry, I felt through the bond. Wanted to take his pain, bear it myself.
But I couldn't. Could only support him, encourage him, be there.
Now, holding our son for the first time, everything is worth it.
He's tiny in my arms, but perfect. Ten fingers, ten toes, healthy and beautiful.
"Hi," I whisper, tears streaming. "I'm your daddy. I'm going to love you forever."
Our son yawns, tiny mouth opening, making small sounds.
"He's hungry," the nurse says. "Let's try feeding."
Luca's exhausted but takes our son, trying to nurse. It's awkward at first, but our boy latches quickly.
"Natural," the nurse approves. "You're doing great."
I watch them—my mate feeding our son—and something in my chest expands. Love so overwhelming I can barely breathe.
"Thank you," I tell Luca. "For him. For everything."
"Thank you for being here. Every moment." His eyes are soft. "Couldn't have done it without you."
"You could have. But I'm glad you didn't have to."
Our son finishes eating, falling asleep instantly. So small, so perfect, so loved.
"Name?" Luca asks. "We should decide."
We've discussed dozens of names. But looking at our son, only one feels right.
"Kai," I say. "Means ocean. Strong. Enduring."
"Kai Blackwood." Luca tests it. "Perfect."
"Kai," I repeat, kissing our son's forehead. "Welcome to the world, little Kai."
That night, in the hospital room, we take turns holding him. Can't put him down, both of us obsessed with our perfect son.
"He has your eyes," Luca observes.
"And your nose." I trace Kai's tiny features. "Perfect combination."
"What do you think? Will he shift? Or stay human?"
"Don't know. Don't care." I look up. "He's ours. That's all that matters."
Luca feeds Kai again, and I take photos—capturing every moment, never wanting to forget.
Later, both exhausted, Luca sleeping, I hold Kai alone.
"Your papa is amazing," I tell him quietly. "He brought you into this world. Fought so hard for you. We're lucky to have him."
Kai makes small noises, golden eyes trying to focus on me.
"I'm going to protect you. Both of you. Nothing will ever hurt you." I kiss his forehead. "You're safe, loved, wanted. Forever."
Strong feelings pulse through the bond—Luca's awake, listening.
You're a natural, he sends.
So are you. I look at him. We make a good team.
The best team.
The nurse comes to take Kai for tests. I reluctantly let him go, climbing into bed with Luca.
"Our son," he whispers.
"Our perfect son." I hold him close. "You were incredible today. So strong."
"Had to be. For him." He looks at me. "Worth it?"
"Every second." I kiss him deeply. "Thank you, Luca. For our family."
"Thank you for wanting this. With me."