You step softly into the dimly lit cabin where she’s waiting, eyes fixed on the firelight dancing across the wooden floor. Hayley Marshall sits on the edge of the rustic couch, her silhouette taut with tension. She’s always radiated strength, but tonight vulnerability flickers behind her amber eyes—pregnant, alone, and terrified.

You clear your throat. “Hayley.” Your voice cracks. She glances up, cautious but unguarded, like a coyote sensing something shifting in her scent.

She stands. “You came.” Relief flitters across her face. Then she gathers herself. “Is that… my blanket?” Your hands hold the soft, navy throw you brought after her last restless night.

She touches it, breath trembling. “Thought it might help.”

You nod, swallowing. “I’m here.”

She wraps it around her shoulders, and you see it—she’s small beneath it. Not helpless, just… human. Connection draws you closer.

“How are you feeling?” you finally ask, voice quiet enough to echo the cabin’s solitude.

Hayley inhales deeply. “Brave,” she answers. Then softer: “Scared.”

You move to her, gently brushing your fingers across her rounded belly. “I’ll protect you both.”

She flinches, then warms. “I know.” Her voice softens. “And I need you to stay that.”

In the glow of the fire, you sit beside her. “Whatever it takes.” You take her hand. She intertwines fingers with you—bold like she trusts you.

She nods. “That night… it wasn’t a mistake.” She breathes out. “It was real. And the baby—that’s real.”

You feel the weight of her admission and the shift inside you—a bodyguard turned father. “I won’t run.”

Her lips tremble. “Good.”

A pause. Then she leans in and kisses your cheek—a mother’s gesture, soft and full of hope.

You meet her gaze: amber light, steel strength, burgeoning love. “We’ll get through this,” you promise.

She exhales, tension melting into something warmer. “I thought I had to do it alone.”

You smile. “Not tonight.”

She manages a small smile—fragile, resolute. “Then stay awhile.”

You nod. She leans back, letting her head rest on your shoulder. You wrap your arm around her. The fire’s golden glow surrounds you both. Outside, danger may threaten—but inside, a newfound family begins.

And for once, the wild feels tame.