Shattered by the Alpha Stronger Than Ever novel Chapter 79

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As I ended the call, I mechanically placed the tests in the drawer, shutting them away like secrets. My gaze drifted to the apples Xaviera brought resting on the table, its vibrant red hue a jarring contrast to the turmoil brewing within.

I trudged into the kitchen carrying them, driven by necessity rather than appetite. With a newfound sense of responsibility, I assembled a healthy chicken sandwich and fruit salad, the nutrients and calories transformed Into a vital investment in my growing

child.

Each bite was deliberate, fueled by determination rather than pleasure. I chewed mechanically, acknowledging the importance of sustenance for the tiny life blossoming within.

The flavors blended together – the crunch of lettuce, the tang of tomato, and the sweetness of pineapple – but my senses remained numb, overshadowed by the weight of impending motherhood.

As I finished my meal, a small sense of accomplishment emerged. I was taking care of myself, and by extension, my baby. This small act of self–care became a beacon of hope, illuminating the uncertain path ahead.

With my energy replenished, I felt a faint surge of resolve, a quiet promise to myself and my unborn child: I would face whatever came next, armed with resilience and determination.

As I listlessly poked at the remaining fruit salad, insomnia’s familiar grip tightened around me. Sleep lingered, an elusive whisper, taunting me with its presence yet refusing to envelop me.

Desperate for distraction, I clicked the remote, and the TV flickered to life, casting a pale glow across the darkened room. The movie’s situation filled the silence, a fragile barrier against the crushing loneliness.

But even the on–screen stories couldn’t dispel the haunting stillness. The empty spaces around me seemed to reverberate with memories.

My phone’s sudden ringing shattered the oppressive silence, jolting me out of my melancholic reverie. I let out an irritated snort, scrambling to locate the device buried beneath the duvet

Finally freeing it, I was taken aback by Deckard’s name on the screen. Instinctively, I smoothed my tangled hair and quickly dabbed at my eyes, ensuring no telltale tears had escaped, I I don’t plan on him pushing him into worrying about me; he had a life to live, a life that didn’t include my struggles.

With a deep breath, I pasted on a bright, reassuring smile, hiding the fragile state of my heart. “Hey,” I said, trying to sound casual, as I accepted the call

Deckard’s expression filled the screen, and for a moment, I forgot about the loneliness and the tears. His presence, even virtually was comforting

“Hey, hamsty,” he said, his voice low and soothing. “How are you?”

My smile wavered for an instant before I regained control, shielding my true emotions behind a mask of calm. “I’m good,” I lied, hoping my voice didn’t betray me. “What about you?” I asked instead.

“I asked first.” He says with an arched brow.

Just as Deckard’s concerned gaze was about to unravel my carefully crafted facade, Jovi’s energetic presence exploded onto the screen. She pushed her father aside, her bright smile and sparkling eyes commandeering the camera.

“Hey Karry!” she chirped. “How’re you? Oh crap, sorry, I shouldn’t have asked that, of course, you’re hurting. But you know what? Amazing girls like us are better without stupid boys. Anyways, Dad got me a Friesian horse – he’s super beautiful! When are you coming to meet us?” Her expression shifted gears with endearing rapidity concern, guilt, encouragement, and excitement all vying for dominance and her last words tumbled out in an eager rush

Her declaration, equal parts conviction and naivety, was the catalyst. Laughter burst forth from my depths, a cathartic release of pent–up emotions as I surrendered to Jovi’s infectious energy.

My laughter intensified, the sound mingling with Jovi’s giggles. In that moment, Jovi’s unbridled joy and unwavering support reminded

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me that life still held beauty, laughter, and love even amidst the heartache.

“I’m good, Jovi, how’re you?” I replied, my words measured to keep pace with Jovi’s energetic cadence.

“And yes, we’re definitely better without those boys,” I added with a chuckle, sharing a conspiratorial smile.

“I’d love to see a picture of your horse, and maybe I’ll meet him when I visit? My tone turned inviting, eager to indulge in her enthusiasm. Her face lit up, her eyes sparkling.

“That’s super great! Dad! We can clean and set up the guest bedroom for her, right?” Her voice floated back into the conversation, her

excitement visible even from screen.

Deckard nodded, his smile evident. “Absolutely, We’ll make sure everything’s perfect for Karry’s visit.”

Jovi reappeared, her face aglow. “I’ll decorate the room with fresh flowers! And we can plan a welcome dinner! What’s your favorite food, Karry?” Her whirlwind questions and enthusiasm wrapped around me like a warm hug, dispelling the lingering shadows of

loneliness.

“I’ll let you know, Jovi,” I said, smiling. “But for now, just knowing I have a place to stay and people who care makes me happy.”

Deckard’s eyes met mine, his expression softening. “You’ll always have a place with us, Karry.”

Jovi’s unstoppable monologue continued for another ten minutes, a joyful wave of enthusiasm and excitement. She regaled me with tales of her triumphs in multiple sports at school, from soccer to basketball, her pride and competitiveness shining through.

Next, she segued into stories about her beloved horses, sharing intricate details about their personalities, quirks, and accomplishments. Her passion was infectious, and I found myself grinning from ear to ear.

But it was her final declaration that sent me into uncontrollable laughter: “And I wanted to try bull riding, but Dad said no way, Jo!”

The image of tiny, fiery Jovi clinging to a bucking bull was too ridiculous to contemplate. Deckard firm denial was understandable, but I Inew Jovi’s spirit wouldn’t be easily deterred.

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