Deceptions: A Timeless Series Novel, Book 6

By Lisa l Wiedmeier

The Timeless war has ended, and Marcus has been defeated. Cheyenne’s life of turmoil is finally over, and she can finally be with the man she truly loves, Colt.

However, while they start their new life together, not all the dust has settled. New challenges arise, and tragedy threatens to destroy the newfound peace. A new Timeless g

• Language: English
• Publisher: Integrity Financial Services, LLC
• Release date: Jun 2, 2015
• ISBN: 9780990355717

Lisa l Wiedmeier

Taming the wilderness of her imagination one story at a time... Lisa Wiedmeier lives in Idaho with her loving husband, two sons and crazy dogs Mandi and Taylor. She has tamed the wilderness of her imagination and she has recently released 6 novels in her Timeless Series, with other novels in the works.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Cheyenne

I ’m in here , Colt. He was searching the Selavon house for me. We’d made Helena, Montana, our home since the war ended. Colt had been outside with the horses while I’d been inside chasing our yellow lab, Ember, around the house.

Ember! Stop! I cried for the billionth time. She had a shoe in her mouth, and not just any shoe, but one of my favorite flats that I’d had to order online, wait six months for, and then finally received only two weeks ago. I’d had it under lock and key, or so I thought, until she followed me into the closet and stole it right out from under my nose.

Her tail wagged, the thump, thump, thump of it beating out a rhythm as it landed against the cabinet. I’d finally cornered in her in the kitchen, and her caramel eyes told me everything as she stared me down. It was playtime, and she wasn’t about to give up her hard-won trophy.

I crept closer, ready to leap if she made a break for the hall when I caught sight of a lone apple on the kitchen counter. Ever so carefully, I stretched out and grasped it, bringing it to her attention. I tossed it in the air playfully and her hold on my shoe loosened.

You want it, girl? I asked with as much excitement I could muster. You want the apple? Her head began to follow the movement of the apple. Skillfully I lowered my hand, allowing her to get a whiff of it while I inched even closer. My left hand went for the cream-colored leather flat when I heard the sound of claws hitting the hardwoods and moving stealthily closer.

Before I could snatch my shoe from Ember’s mouth, Colt’s chocolate lab, Moab, stole the apple from my fingertips.

Moab, no! I lunged for my shoe, which was once more firmly grasped in Ember’s mouth, but missed my target, and landed face-first on the hardwood floors. Bad dogs! I bellowed as they scurried down the hall and departed through the now-open front door.

Colt knelt beside me, hiding a smile. Lost another one, huh?

He helped me to my feet, and I shook my head. It’s the fifth pair this month, Colt, I complained.

Maybe you should lock them up better, he replied.

I brushed back my blond locks and narrowed my eyes. I did! I said through my teeth. She followed me into the closet and stole it while I hung the laundry! My hands flew in the air. She’s a shoe thief! And the worst part is that she hides them! At least if she chewed them, I could possibly scold her, but oh no, she runs outside every time, and buries them God knows where, so I have a dozen or more shoes that are orphans! And it’s not just shoes that have gone missing either! It’s socks, hats…

Colt’s chuckle cut me off. His cheeks were rosy from being outside, and his icy blue eyes danced as he stepped closer.

I’ll buy you another pair, sweetheart.

I rolled my eyes, but the anger was fading. You bought that pair.

He drew me into a hug, his bulky frame surrounding me, and kissed my head. I’ll buy you all the shoes in the world if that makes you happy, especially if that’s the only thing we have to worry over now.

I sighed; losing a pair of shoes, or in my case many shoes, was minor compared to what we’d lived through in the past. Why was I getting so worked up over nothing? It wasn’t like me. I had so much to be grateful for too. Six years had already gone by since that final battle with Marcus. And five of them I’d been married to Colt.

Six years of traveling to the far ends of the earth to unite the Timeless clans again. Six years of trying to adjust to a life without war, though for some it seemed to be harder than others.

There had been factions that resisted, pockets of Timeless that wanted to be left alone, and then there had been others who celebrated the victory and became an active part of their clans again.

Chey! Chey! a tiny voice called out with excitement. Beau came tumbling through the kitchen, his hand waving a familiar-looking shoe.

I slid from Colt’s arms, and dashed towards Beau, picking him up and hugging him tightly.

Oh, Beau, my hero!

His chubby cheeks were cold from running outside. I nuzzled my nose against them and kissed him. He was such a cute little guy. He had his mother Layla’s green eyes, and Brogan’s dark hair. His dark curls were in a disarray, but his eyes sparkled. I set him back down. He was large, even for a six year old. Chances were, he was going to be built like his dad—a tank.

His voice rose as he told an animated story about how he had rescued my shoe from Ember. And I couldn’t help but get all tingly inside. Our family had been expanding at a record rate, and all these little additions warmed my heart. I loved being an aunt to all of them, but I didn’t know if I was ready to have one of my own yet.

So many children being born felt like a miracle, considering the fact that Timeless women typically only had one or two children. We’d been born with a special gene allowing us to live longer; one year for every one hundred human years, but not allowing us to repopulate the earth during that time. That special gene slowed down everything, especially a woman’s reproductive cycle. It’s not that I minded that much. Having a cycle once every five to ten years was fine with me; however, it wasn’t good if you wanted to start a family.

But somehow things had changed after the war ended. Dex and Callon weren’t sure if it was due to the change in powers between the clans, or nature itself taking over and repopulating the Timeless race. Whatever it was, babies were abounding.

Brogan and Layla were prime examples. They’d been married a long time, as Layla had put it, and hadn’t had children prior to the war ending. But now they had three children, all under the age of five. Beau was the oldest at five and a half; Madeline, known as Maddy, was three; and Bleu was two.

There were a lot of weddings after ours too. Daniel and Bree, Callon and Nakari, Maes and Andre, and following the weddings were a lot more births. Callon and Nakari had three—Cade, age five; Duke, age four; and Sophie, age three. Maes and Andre had Devereux, or Dev as we called him, who was five and half like Beau; Felici, nicknamed Cici, age three; and Chaz, age two. Even Daniel and Bree had a little girl, Rayne, who was one and a half. Colt and I were the only couple, outside of Dex and Lilly, who didn’t have children. And I knew it was weighing on his heart.

They dynamics of our whole family had changed. Koda was the only one still single, but he stayed to be near us. He lived in Daniel’s cabin, my first home away from home with the boys. But Koda had something in the works that he wasn’t ready to share yet with Colt and me. He’d been leaving frequently, along with other family members, and I’d yet to meet her, or get her name. From what I overheard in a conversation between Andre and Bree, there were some abandonment and anger issues that needed to be worked through, but I knew it wouldn’t be long till he joined the ranks of married couples.

Clayton and Quinn had gone to help Raina rebuild the Servak clan with Jahlem and Darrien. They made an annual visit around the Fourth of July and would stay a few weeks to catch up. And there was Shad, Maes’ younger brother. He and Maes had mended their wounds, but Shad was a loner at heart. He came and went, staying only briefly before moving on again.

The rest of the family had stayed nearby; Colt had plenty of land, and he had subdivided it into our own little Timeless community. The homes were built far enough apart to give us space, but close enough to join with paths through the forest. We had weekly dinners that Lilly organized and alternated the hosting homes. It was a family reunion every week.

Beau! Brogan’s voice echoed in the front hall, followed by the sound of the front door closing. Heavy footsteps pounded down the hall to the kitchen, and a tall, dark shadow paused in the doorway. Son, you can’t keep running off like that.

Brogan took a breath and looked over at Colt. There were dark circles beneath his green eyes, his black hair looked somewhat matted on the left side, and his jacket was misbuttoned.

I can’t figure out where he gets all this energy from. He shook his head and pushed the stray hair that fell onto his forehead back. I mean he doesn’t stop—ever.

Beau smiled up at Brogan and then dashed off into the great room.

If he’s not crawling the walls, he’s yakking my ear off. And if he’s not doing those two things, he’s eating everything in sight! And he’s only five!

I chuckled. I loved seeing Brogan like this, all his love and attention focused on his family and not war. But then again, he waged his own battles at home trying to keep up with all three children. I had been given the opportunity to see the softer side of him. It was a side I’d rarely seen till his children came along, a side I enjoyed.

Is Layla at home with Maddy and Bleu? I asked.

Yeah, divide and conquer. Beau will be starting school next fall. We’re hoping that’ll help. At least Layla and I will only have one each to contend with while he’s gone. Brogan pushed his hair back again. Poor teacher who has him as a student… he muttered before his eyes brightened. Did I tell you Layla found a cat in the fridge last week? He shook his head and tried to hide his smile. When she asked Beau why he put the cat there, his reply was that it was hungry and thirsty.

Colt and I burst into laughter. Colt moved closer to Brogan and slapped him on the shoulder. I bet you never saw that coming! Colt said.

A crash came from the great room and Brogan sighed, taking large steps to the doorway. I have no idea what he’s done now, but I’m sorry. I’ll pay for it.

I’m sure it’s nothing, Brogan, I replied, knowing I’d Beau-proofed the house years ago.

Brogan and Colt stopped inside the doorway searching for the mess, when I moved past them, and eyed the set of books that had been knocked from the coffee table. I bent to pick them up. I told you it was nothing. I began arranging them on the table when a sharp pain in my stomach overwhelmed me. A groan escaped me, and I grabbed my stomach and I doubled over.

Chey? Colt rushed to my side, his hand resting on my back. What’s wrong?

I don’t know, I muttered, breathless with the pain.

Chey? Beau’s squeaky voice said, as his little fingers touched my head. What’s wrong? I thought you were happy cuz I brought your shoe back?

I looked up to see his head tilting down at me. You did a good thing bringing me back my shoe, Beau, and I’m happy. I just don’t feel very good right now.

His innocent eyes lit up. I’ll get Callon. He fixes everything! He stomped his foot and took off running before Brogan could stop him.

Brogan sighed. Looks like we’re going to get Callon. We’ll be back, Cheyenne. Just hold tight. His footsteps disappeared and then the front door closed. The scrabbling of nails caught my attention, and soon Ember and Moab were beside us, tails wagging and noses sniffing.

Colt rubbed my back tenderly. Your stomach?

I nodded, trying not to move.

Is this the first time you’ve had this type of pain?

Sort of, I replied, gripping my stomach tightly.

Sort of? he repeated.

It’s never been this bad.

His hand stopped moving. Can I lift you to the couch or carry you to bed?

Not yet, but I’m sure it’ll subside soon. I tried to take slow, deliberate breaths to ease the pain. Chances were, this was linked to the reason my emotions had been a little off lately. I’d lost track, but likely it was time for my cycle to appear again, and the last time I had one it was bad. It was at the cabin with the boys, and I mainly remember yogurt being mutilated. How many years ago was that?

When was the last time it happened? Colt asked probing further.

Ember and Moab were now lying on the floor in front of me, watching with curiosity.

Last week, I was walking the dogs…and a few days ago in the shower. I moved to lie on my side, curling my legs into my chest. He brushed the hair from my eyes.

Why didn’t you tell me? His brow creased with worry.

I didn’t think it was a big deal. It’s likely cramps and has to do with my cycle, Colt. It’s been a long time.

Or it could be something more. It’s not like you haven’t had your fair share of injuries. Maybe it’s related to one of those.

This is why I didn’t tell you. You’re overreacting. I squeezed his hand. It’s nothing. Callon will check me out and give the all clear, okay?

Moab’s head perked up and he leapt to his feet and rushed from the room. Ember followed close behind. The front door flew open, and Beau once again raced into the great room.

I got him for you, Chey! he said, proudly smiling. We ran the whole way too!

Thank you, Beau, I replied.

The sounds of multiple footsteps came behind him. Great, he brought more than just Callon. I knew it would be mere moments until the entire family arrived on our doorstep.

Colt, can you carry me to the bedroom now? I asked.

He didn’t hesitate as he gently lifted me and carried me to our bed. I was right: more than Callon and Brogan had arrived. Koda was here too. Brogan and Koda hovered just inside the room, while Beau jumped up on the bed beside me. I rolled onto my side, folding my legs tightly into my stomach to protect it. Beau’s tiny fingers rubbed my back as he tried to comfort me.

Cheyenne, Callon said, can you tell me what’s going on that you got Beau all worked up?

She doesn’t feel good, Beau stated firmly. Like I told you.

Yes, Beau, I got that. But let’s have Cheyenne answer this time, okay? Callon replied.

Beau released a huff of air and sat cross-legged, his arms folded tight on his chest.

It’s my stomach, cramping, I answered.

I’m going to need to examine you. Can you roll over on your back? He moved to sit beside me, and gently touched my arm.

I nodded and Brogan reached over, plucking Beau from the bed.

But, Dad! Beau cried. She needs me!

Callon’s here now, son. Let him take over, Brogan replied.

Callon helped me roll to my back, and I winced as the movement caused pain to ripple across the lower portion of my stomach. I pressed my eyes closed for a moment, and opened them to see concern in his.

Can I? he asked, his hand hovering over my lower belly.

I nodded.

He pulled my shirt up, and began gently pressing his fingers over my stomach, stopping from time to time as he watched my reaction. The lower his fingers went, the more I winced. He continued his probing for a few minutes before he stopped just above my pelvic bone.

That hurts there?

Yes.

He stared at me a moment before drawing my shirt back down and glancing at Colt.

Ask Daniel to bring over the portable ultrasound machine. I want to take a deeper look before we go any further.

Colt nodded and then stared at me. He didn’t need a phone to ask Daniel to bring the equipment over; he was close enough to speak to him telepathically. Though over six years had passed, Callon couldn’t speak to his brothers this way anymore. It didn’t seem to bother Callon, but it bothered me. He had given up his powers so I could live. He’d also given up ruling the Consilador clan.

I knew his choice was made based on more than keeping me alive; it was because of his actions. He was fearful of what he’d become after bypassing the rings’ powers. He’d met The Overseer, Adele, a powerful ancient Timeless from the clans’ first founding. Adele had chosen to live apart from the other Timeless, but instead became an observer; a watcher who ensured the clans didn’t destroy each other. As a watcher, she had never interfered—until now.

She’d seen the Timeless fate and made a choice to take action. She chose Callon to share limited knowledge with in hopes of preventing our destruction. And while the final outcome of saving my life likely wouldn’t have changed, Callon did the unspeakable. He bypassed the power of the rings in an effort to try and help end the war.

I didn’t need to speak to him to know what he had done; his memories of it were left intact with me because his powers ran through my veins. He feared his future, saw visions of what he’d become—no different than Makhi, Jorell, or Marcus. He’d go mad with the power, and it would destroy him like it had done with the others. He had to give his powers up, because they were tainted now.

At first I was fearful of the powers, especially the clan powers that were passed over to Colt. But we realized they weren’t Callon’s powers, only the Consilador clan’s powers. Because Callon removed himself from being the clan leader, gave up his clan powers to Colt, the infection didn’t pass on. Colt was safe; however, we were never completely sure of my safety. Dex and Callon researched, and from the small bit of information they found, they came to the conclusion that the infection of powers stayed with the original person who bypassed the rings. So if Callon ever got his powers back, there was a chance he could become like Marcus and the others. It was a chance we weren’t willing to take.

The knowledge should’ve died with Makhi and Marcus, so the Timeless clans would never have the temptation again. But it lived on in my head because Callon had performed it, and it was a heavy burden to bear. I knew I’d never use it, but just knowing the knowledge was at my fingertips, that the potential was there, was unnerving.

The flash of a dark shirt brought me out of my thoughts. Daniel had arrived. Daniel greeted me as he always did, with a twinkle in his blue eyes and a smile on his face; however, he was somewhat subdued as he handed the equipment over to Callon.

Heard you’re not feeling well, Chey, Daniel said quietly as he watched Callon setting up the equipment.

Come on, Beau, Brogan said, tugging on his son’s hand. It’s time for us to leave.

But Chey needs us! he cried as Brogan lead him out the door.

I’ll come with you, Koda said, feeling a bit uncomfortable himself.

Colt moved to the other side of the bed, his gaze remaining steadily on mine. He brushed his hair back from his eyes as he sat and took hold of my hand. He didn’t need to say a word for me to know he was worried. I could also see he wanted to ask Callon more questions, but not the kind he wanted me to hear.

It’ll be okay, Colt, I said in my thoughts, knowing it was only by Callon’s powers that I was able to do it. Callon will figure it out, and it’s going to be fine. I’m sure it’s just because I haven’t had a period in a long time. I kinda figured when I did, it’d be bad. Remember the time at the cabin? I went a little nuts. I smiled and squeezed his hand, trying to reassure him.

He didn’t answer, not that I expected him to. I rarely spoke to him in my thoughts. I usually blocked him. It was bad enough having Maes probe me from time to time. I didn’t need him or Daniel rattling up around in there too. It was an unspoken agreement I had with the two of them. Maes, however, was a different story.

Callon lifted my shirt again, and pulled my yoga pants down slightly as he squirted gel across my belly. I jumped from the chill. I swallowed and took a breath. The pain was finally subsiding, as it had the past couple of times.

Satisfied with the machine’s settings, Callon moved the wand towards me, gliding it across the upper and then lower portions of my stomach. I stared at the screen, dumbfounded. It looked like a bunch of blobs with light and dark shadows. He held it still for a few moments, and then traced over the same spot several times before he pulled the wand back and smiled.

I think we’ve found your problem, Cheyenne, Callon said, deliberately pausing as he glanced between Colt and me. You’re pregnant.

My jaw dropped, and I blinked. Colt’s hold grew tighter around my fingers.

Wait...what?! I cried.

Babies, Cheyenne, Callon answered.

Don’t I have to pee on a stick or something? Or at least have a blood test done before you can come to that conclusion?

This time it was Colt’s turn. Babies? Colt repeated.

Two, or at least what I can tell so far with this initial ultrasound. I want to do more testing because she’s been cramping, and then schedule her with our OB-GYN in Helena. He glanced at me again. I’ll have you pee on a stick if that’s what you want, Cheyenne, and the doctor in Helena will do the blood work. But it’s not going to change the fact that I can see your babies. I want you to rest for today, then tomorrow come over to my clinic.

Colt answered for me. Okay.

I looked up at Colt, his eyes dancing in delight. He held up two fingers and chuckled. Daniel jumped across the room and Colt and grabbed him in a hug.

You’re having twins! Daniel cheered. I can’t wait to tell Bree!

What?! Brogan demanded as he and Beau dashed into the room.

Did I hear twins? Koda repeated, following in behind them.

Yes, twins! Colt gushed and rounded the bed to meet Brogan and Koda’s hug.

Brogan slapped him on the back as they separated, while Beau squealed, Chey’s havin’ a baby!

Their laughter and joy nearly overwhelmed me while I lay there and tried to take it in.

Dear lord, I was having twins…

Chapter 2

Cheyenne

Isplashed water on my face and reached for the towel hanging nearby. I blotted my face dry and stared at myself in the mirror. I almost couldn’t believe it, even though Callon had proven his readings of the ultrasound with a home pregnancy test, and the doctor confirmed it with the blood work. I was going to be a mother, not just once, but twice over. How had this happened? Colt and I had barely even talked about children, and as far as I knew, we weren’t trying yet. Obviously I had done a lousy job of tracking my cycles. Despite his excitement, I wasn’t sure if I was ready for such a huge responsibility.

Cheyenne? Andre called out and lightly knocked on my bathroom door before she entered. Where’d you run off to? She stopped a few feet away, her eyes probing.

Toilet, I replied and tried to walk past her. The last thing I needed right now was to have her think I was regretting the pregnancy. It was bad enough trying to fake my happiness to the family crowding our great room when I was still in shock. It had only been a few days since I was stunned with the news.

She sidestepped me, blocking my exit. She crossed her arms, and I met her narrowing blue eyes.

You’re a horrible liar, always have been, Andre said.

Excuse me? I replied.

You heard me. Her chin lifted, daring me to challenge her.

I rolled my eyes. She was my best friend, knew me to a tee, but I still didn’t want to confess. I said I had to pee. How is that lying?

You may have peed, but you’re lying about why you left the room. What’s really going on?

Loud laughter from the great room drifted in. We were hosting the weekly family dinner and the house was full.

You’ve been moping around, giving off that fake smile of yours. Her black locks tumbled as she turned to glance at the door. Maes’ head poked into the bedroom. Girl talk, she said and he quickly ducked out of sight. She turned her attention back to me. Spill it.

Spill what? I already peed. I gave her a smirk.

She raised a brow, and we stared each other down a few moments. It was either tell her now, or she’d follow me around all night until she got what she wanted.

I’ve known you now for how long? She tapped her foot impatiently to prove her point.

Too long, I replied and moved to sit on the bench.

She leaned up against the counter, waiting for me to confide in her.

I’m not even sure how this happened, I started out.

Well, I’d have thought you would’ve already had this conversation with Alexis, but here goes; the birds and the bees…

I shook my head and rolled my eyes again. You know what I mean, Andre. We weren’t even trying, had barely talked about having kids of our own, and suddenly I find out I’m having not one, but two, babies?! It’s a shock to the system.

She moved to sit beside me.

You’re going to be a great mother, Cheyenne.

I stared down at my hands in my lap, picking at my nails as a distraction. What if I screw them up? It’s not like it’s just one. There are going to be two to mess up.

Do you feel like you were messed up as a child?

I leveled my eyes with her. Seriously, Andre? My whole life has been a screwed-up mess. It’s a miracle I’m even sitting here today.

She shrugged. What doesn’t kill us makes us stronger. You’re not that messed up. Believe me, I’ve seen worse. She nudged me with her shoulder. You can’t worry about what might be. You need to focus on what will be. In other words, make your own destiny; forge your own path with these kids. Just because you went through a lot doesn’t mean they’ll face the same obstacles. Besides, she looked at me and smiled, these kids are going to have a whole village to help raise them.

She was probably right, and it helped a little, but I still couldn’t shake the surprise of it.

As if reading my mind, or the skepticism in my face, she added, It’s going to take time to get used to the idea. You’ve got seven months to prepare, and the support of a whole Timeless nation behind you.

I swallowed. I hadn’t even thought of the Timeless clans yet. What would happen when word got out that two more heirs to the Kvech line were coming down? I was sure there were some out there who wouldn’t like the news. What then? Callon had already warned me not to use my powers, the destructive powers that could protect me.

And then there was the issue of all the powers I had running through my veins, particularly the Sarac’s. Despite Dex and Callon’s conclusion that the tainted powers from bypassing the rings stayed with the original holder, I couldn’t help but wonder if the sanity issue could be passed down through me or affect me differently now that I had a stronger life force thriving inside me.

Andre grasped my hand and pulled me to my feet. Stop, I can see your mind whirling. Just relax and let it sink in. It’s going to be okay.

I followed her to the bedroom door, knowing she didn’t have a clue what I was thinking about now, but a certain black haired, green-eyed man would. I put my mental barriers up before entering the great room, but it was too late, and Maes immediately zoned in on me.

I made a beeline for Colt, weaving through the swarms of children and family, and almost made it before strong fingers latched onto my forearm.

Cheyenne, Maes said, his French accent particularly strong, which meant he wanted to talk, or wanted answers.

In this case, he wanted both. I didn’t respond, but instead looked towards Colt, hoping to capture his attention. Instead, Andre glanced towards me and shrugged, seizing Colt’s attention so Maes could speak to me.

"I know what you fear, mon espoir. Don’t you realize what stands around you? You feel powerless to protect the fragile life inside you, but you don’t need to worry. I’ll stand beside you and your children to ensure they’re protected. I vowed this years ago."

I grinned politely. Yes, I know you did, but you’ve got a family of your own now, Maes—we all do. I can’t ask anyone to sacrifice for me anymore. It’s my fear, my problem, so quit probing around inside my head because you think you constantly need to make sure I’m sane. I raised a brow, knowing what he was really after. I have the Sarac’s powers, but I also have Callon’s powers protecting me. And yes, there was, and still is, a need to be concerned over Callon’s bypassing the rings powers, but again, I’m okay.

I probe because I care, and you allow it.

I sighed. I did allow it sometimes, and other times, like today, I accidently let my barriers down. I was going to have to work on it, not allow those distractions to take over and give him a glimpse inside.

It’s really not fair, this connection we have. I faintly smiled.

He drew me into a hug. It’s not fair at all, but I’ll take what’s been gifted to me.

When he pulled back, I meet another set of worried blue eyes.

Lilly, I said calmly.

She stepped forward, pulling me towards the bookshelves in the far corner, her long black braid swaying as she walked. I couldn’t help but catch a glimpse of silver strands glimmering in the sunlight that streamed through the large patio windows.

Sweetheart? Lilly said, her brows pinching together. You seem a little…

I grasped her hands, knowing she was only looking out for my best interests, and figured it was best if I was honest, if only partially.

The last few days have been a whirlwind of events, Lilly. Lab testing, visiting the doctors, and the entire family hasn’t left me much alone time to process this whole pregnancy. It’s a bit overwhelming, knowing I’m carrying twins.

Lilly smiled. I figured as much, but with you hardly talking, running off to hide in your room, and Maes seeking you out, well, I had to make sure. She sighed. I want what’s best for you, and we should’ve realized this would be a bit much for you to handle all at once. She turned and waved her hands. Time to go, everyone, she said loudly. Cheyenne needs her rest, and there’ll be plenty of time to celebrate the birth of the new Kvech heirs when they’re born.

I cringed and glanced around the now-silent room. All attention had focused in on me—great. If some of the family hadn’t noticed I was having issues, they knew now.

Lilly leaned in and kissed my cheek. Get some rest. I’ll stop by tomorrow to bring you dinner.

I was about to protest when the rest of the family began the line up to say their goodbyes.

Dex moved in behind her, kissing my cheek and nodding in agreement with Lilly’s words. You’re going to make a fine mother, Cheyenne, Dex said. Your parents would be proud of what you’ve become.

My parents are proud. They tell me all the time, I replied.

A warm smile rose on his face. Yes, we are.

Bree leaned in with Rayne on her curvy hips. I brushed back Rayne’s black wisps of hair and kissed her rosy cheek.

’Night, my sweet, Rayne, I whispered and hugged Bree. ’Night, Bree.

Bree flashed her sweet smile, and winked, allowing room for Daniel to jump in.

It’s gonna be okay, Chey, Daniel said, hugging me. You and Colt are ready for this, and we’re here to help.

I didn’t reply, but instead nodded.

Callon’s hazel eyes met mine with a softness I hadn’t seen in years. Get your rest, doctor’s orders. He grasped my fingers.

I know. I rolled my eyes. You’ve been telling me for days now, but then you keep dragging me to all these appointments.

He chuckled and turned to prevent Cade from knocking Duke over, grasping both their hands as they headed for the door.

Sleep well, Nakari said, leaning in to kiss my cheek while holding Sophie closely.

Sophie’s little fingers caught hold of my hair, taking me with her. I smiled.

No, Sophie, Nakari scolded gently, prying her delicate fingers from the strands.

I helped unwind Sophie’s fingers and kissed them as she giggled.

’Night, little one, I said and waved as they followed Callon out.

A crash in the corner caused Layla to turn and shake her head, and the familiar words left her lips, I have no idea what he’s done now, but I’m sorry. I’ll pay for it.

I laughed and quickly squeezed her hand as she went in search of Beau and Bleu.

Maddy’s curly brown locks bounced as Brogan moved across the great room to say his goodbye. Sparkling caramel eyes met mine.

Chey, she said in her tiny voice and stretched out her hands, wanting me to hold her.

Brogan pulled her back before she fell out of his arms.

Not now, Maddy, Brogan said, moving closer. Just a hug, darling.

Maddy leaned in and hugged my neck tight.

Brogan nodded at me and turned in search of Layla and the boys. Bedtime can’t come soon enough, he muttered under his breath.

Colt’s arm came around my shoulder as Maes and Andre waved their goodbyes, three little ones in tow. Koda plopped himself into the couch, resting his legs on the wooden table.

You tired? Colt asked, rubbing my back. You’ve been standing a long time. Come sit by the fire. Did you eat enough? I could make you another plate of pasta.

I’m good, sweetheart. I touched his arm and settled in on the couch closest to the fire. He drew a blanket over me and sat beside me, once again placing his arm around my shoulder.

So you’re freaking out a little, huh, Chey? Koda commented while thumbing through a woodworking magazine. From what I hear, it’s pretty normal to worry. Your whole life is going to change.

I’m not freaking out, Koda. I’m just nervous about this whole idea of having twins.

We’re ready for this, Colt said as he moved his hand to my stomach.

He might be ready, but I still had questions.

Don’t you think it’s odd that we’re all having children when Timeless usually have a hard time reproducing? I rested my hand over his.

Yes, but I take it as a blessing. We’ve talked about this with Dex and Callon too, Chey, remember? They think that it has to do with the change in powers. I’m sure it’ll level itself off before we repopulate the earth. He looked down on me.

But how many others in Timeless history have had twins, Colt? Did they research that?

Colt sighed, It’s a rarity, but it has happened from time to time, I’m sure.

What if I’m the exception again?

Colt smiled. You’ve always been the exception, sweetheart.

And what about the fact that so many Timeless women have died during childbirth?

Has anyone in this family who has recently given birth, died? He shook his head. "You’re worrying over nothing. Besides, this is why Callon has you