chapter 60

The final weeks of Liam's pregnancy were a landscape of profound wonder and increasing physical shifts. His bump, a beautiful, undeniable curve, moved with vigorous life. The baby's kicks were strong, playful assertions, often startling Liam with their force, yet filling him with boundless joy. Sleep became a elusive luxury, punctuated by aches and the constant need to find a comfortable position.

Elijah's Alpha nurturing intensified further, a constant, comforting presence. He would rise with Liam in the quiet hours before dawn, bringing him warm milk, massaging his aching back, his hand always finding Liam's abdomen to feel the baby's reassuring presence.

The nursery in their new house was a testament to their love, finally complete. The crib was assembled, crisp white sheets lay folded, and tiny garments, knitted with love by Liam's mother, were tucked neatly into drawers. It was all ready, meticulously prepared for the new life about to join them.

The day of the move to their new home was a meticulously orchestrated operation. Security, headed by Marcus, moved like a silent, efficient shadow, ensuring every possession, every person, was transported seamlessly. The penthouse, once a fortress, felt strangely empty as they departed.

Their new house was a breathtaking vision, a tangible manifestation of their love and shared dreams. Nestled within a sprawling, private estate, it felt like a sanctuary carved out of the very earth.

The living spaces flowed with warmth and light, Liam's touch evident in every curated detail, every soft throw, every strategically placed plant. Maya shrieked with delight upon seeing her new, expansive playroom and the vast, verdant backyard, her laughter echoing against the new walls. This was home. Their home. A secure, beautiful embodiment of their family.

With Naomi's guilty verdict delivered and her permanent containment assured, the last external shadow had lifted. Now, with their family firmly rooted in their new sanctuary, Elijah and Liam had one final, profound decision to make. They sat together one evening, Liam resting his head on Elijah's chest, the low hum of their new house settling around them.

"It's time, isn't it?" Liam murmured, his voice soft. "To tell the world."

Elijah's arm tightened around him. His Alpha instincts, long focused on protection through secrecy, now shifted to protection through narrative control. "It is," he affirmed, pressing a kiss to Liam's hair. "We'll do it on our terms. Your truth, our truth, our family. They will see us, Liam. As we truly are."

The revelation was meticulously planned. Elijah contacted a respected, sympathetic journalist known for integrity and sensitivity in handling personal stories.

Days later, a groundbreaking interview was released to a major news outlet, accompanied by an exclusive, candid photo. It showed Elijah, strong and grounded, with Liam nestled against his side, his hand tenderly placed over Liam's undeniably prominent pregnancy bump.

Maya, radiant with joy, was nestled between them, holding both their hands.

The accompanying article was titled: "Elijah Stone: My Mate, Our Child, Our Unbreakable Family." It spoke of Maya's abandonment, Liam's unwavering love and healing touch, Elijah's enduring search for completeness, and the profound, undeniable mate bond that had blossomed between them. It revealed Liam's Omega nature and their shared joy in expecting a new child, painting a picture of love, resilience, and unconventional family.

The world reacted with a predictable mix of shock and fervent support. Social media exploded. While some traditionalists or bigoted voices spewed negativity, they were quickly drowned out by an overwhelming wave of positive affirmation. Fans of Elijah's work, supporters of diversity, and countless individuals touched by their story poured out messages of love and congratulation. Their carefully controlled narrative, rooted in authenticity, had resonated deeply.

Liam's mother, visiting their new home for the first time, cried tears of immense joy as she saw the news. "My beautiful family," she whispered, pulling them both into a frail but heartfelt hug. "My Liam, finally in the light. This is everything."

That night, settled in their spacious new master suite, the room imbued with the scent of fresh wood and new beginnings, Elijah held Liam close. Liam, his body heavy with the beautiful burden of advanced pregnancy, lay against Elijah, feeling the powerful kicks of their baby. Elijah's large hand covered Liam's bump, his thumb caressing.

Suddenly, a different kind of movement. A subtle shift, a distinct pressure that made Liam gasp. "Elijah!"

Elijah's eyes snapped open, looking at Liam's face, which was a mix of awe and discomfort. "What is it?"

Liam smiled, a profound, slightly breathless look. "I think… I think the baby just dropped."

Elijah's breath hitched. His Alpha instincts went into full alert, a mixture of immense anticipation and fierce readiness. They looked at each other, their eyes filled with profound love, awe, and a shared, powerful understanding. The world knew their truth. And their new world, a perfect family of four, was just moments away from beginning.