Chapter 2 A Mother's Fight for Redemption

Silverwood was a peaceful hamlet bathed in a golden glow as morning light peaked over it. Standing outside the little cabin in the woods where I had grown up, I could feel the familiarity of the area. My previous visit was years ago, yet everything was exactly as I recalled.

Within, my three kids-Liam, Ava, and Noah-were excitedly exploring their new environment. They had never laid their eyes on Silverwood, but they had heard tales of my past and this location. My difficult job now was to reveal the truth about their ancestry, acquaint them with their father, and the pack history that loomed large over our lives.

I was thinking when I heard a knock on the door. There Lucas stood, unsure yet resolute, as I unlocked it.

Could we talk? he said quietly.

Glancing back at the children lost in their investigation, I hesitated. Facing him, I nodded.

Breathing deeply, Lucas gave me a sincere look. "I want things right, Emma," he said. "I want to participate in the lives of our kids. I want to support you even though I know I wounded you, and I can't change the past."

His comments cut very close. Our lives had taken years to be rebuilt without the suffering he had brought. Here he was nonetheless, begging for another shot.

Heart aching, I murmured, "I'm not sure if I can trust you again, Lucas." "You demolished my heart."

His eyes clearly pained as he nodded. Whispering, "I know," he said. Daily, I regret it. But I would like to show you that I have changed if you would allow me."

I groaned, caught between keeping my kids safe and letting them know their father. At last I said, "I need time." "Their best interests come first.

Lucas never blinked, just nodded. Give yourself endless time. Come as you are.

I stood by myself in the doorway as he went, a tornado of feelings ripping at me. The youngsters pounded me with inquiries about their father and our ancestry within. I answered honestly as I could, outlining the pack hierarchy and our werewolf beginnings. Their youthful brains striving to make sense of the intricacies of their new world, they listened carefully.

I had discomfort all day. Lucas' abrupt return had knocked me off my feet and had me face choices I wasn't ready to make.

Putting Liam, Ava, and Noah to bed that evening, I thought back on the life I had always envisaged for them. A life lived with a kind, encouraging spouse by my side. After Lucas dashed that fantasy, I wasn't sure I could ever trust him again.

Turning to exit their room, Liam's inquisitive voice cut me off. Mum, why did you and Dad split up?

The words eluded me. I said at last, "Sometimes, things don't work out the way we want them to." That does not, however, preclude our continuing to love one another.

Frowning, Ava was thinking a lot. She said, "Dad hurt you," very quietly. Do you still think he's cute?"

Sitting on the side of the bed, I sighed. Sweetheart, love isn't easy," I said. "Mistakes happen, but that doesn't mean people stop loving us."

Understanding in his eyes, Noah nodded. Are we to see Dad once more?

Uncertain, I paused. "I don't know," I said. "You are all deeply loved, though, no matter what. And for me, you'll always come first."

The youngsters looked at one another and nodded. Mom, we know," Liam whispered softly. We also adore you.

I was warmed by their words. My entire universe, my reason for being, and I would stop at nothing to keep them safe.

A message was on the kitchen table the following morning. Lucas had left a note asking to get together at the neighborhood coffee shop. Uncertain of my desire to see him again, I paused. I was nonetheless compelled to give him a chance.

My thoughts whirling with ideas, I left for the coffee shop after a brief wash and dressed. Lucas was sitting hopeful at a corner table when I got there.

"Emma," he whispered quietly, drawing near. "I appreciate your coming."

Sat across from him, I nodded. How about talking about what you wanted to talk about?

He drew a long breath and gave me a serious look. I've given what you said a lot of thought," he said. "I want you to know I'm committed to earning your forgiveness, but I also understand why you don't trust me."

Not sure how to answer, I stopped. My voice heavy with old wounds, I murmured, "I don't know if I can ever trust you again, Lucas." There will be time.

At that, he nodded. "I get it," he murmured softly. Let me prove to you nevertheless that I've changed. Emma, you are loved. Right things should be done.

His eyes held both regret and honesty. I wanted to think that he might change, to believe him.

Whispering, "I need time," I said. "It's time to consider what the children need."

Never turning his head, Lucas nodded once more. Give yourself endless time. When you're prepared, I'm here."

My feelings in disarray, I watched him go as he got up and left. Though the weight of my choices was pressing down on me, I knew I had to bravely face whatever lay ahead. I prioritize my role as a mother and am committed to ensuring the safety of my children at all costs.

Arriving back at the cabin, I was both excited and nervous. Secrets, second chances, and the enduring power of love were all part of Emma Matthews and Lucas Blackwood's just-beginning journey.

Weeks passed between days in Silverwood as Emma Matthews struggled to balance her children's inquisitive minds with Lucas Blackwood's constant presence. Still not sure she could totally trust Lucas, she had occasionally allowed him to come over, but only under strict supervision.

One cool fall afternoon, Emma took her children to the neighborhood park, where there was laughter and the scent of freshly fallen leaves. Liam, Ava, and Noah ran ahead to the playground, their youthful excitement a stark contrast to Emma's turbulent thoughts.