5 Months later....

"Hold still," I murmur softly, pulling the zipper up the back of Brooke's graduation dress. I take a step back and watch her as she turns to face the mirror, smoothing her hands down the fabric.

"Brooke..." I breathe out, a smile tugging at my lips. "You look beautiful."

She grins, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Thanks, Ave." Then her grin turns mischievous as she catches my gaze in the mirror. "But just wait — I'm going to be the one doing this for you soon when you're trying on your wedding dress."

I roll my eyes playfully, but I can't stop the laugh that escapes. "We'll see about that," I tease, but the warmth in my chest spreads at the thought.

Brooke gives me a knowing look, but before she can say anything else, Sara steps out of the dressing room, adjusting her graduation gown. "How do I look?" she asks, her smile wide but a little nervous.

My eyes well up with tears as I take her in. "You both look amazing," I say, my voice full of pride. "I can't believe how grown up you are."

We make our way out to the living room, where Everest and Austin are waiting. Everest's face lights up the moment he sees me, while Austin's gaze lingers proudly on Brooke.

"Alright," Brooke says with a big grin, "group picture time!"

"No way," I protest, shaking my head. "I look huge."

Sara rolls her eyes, already pulling me toward the group. "You do not look huge. You're glowing. Now get in the picture."

Reluctantly, I give in and stand beside Everest as he wraps his arm protectively around me. Brooke sets the timer, and we all squeeze together for the photo.

As the camera clicks, Brooke can't help but smirk. "You know, I still wish you would've let me throw you a gender reveal party," she teases. "I need to settle this debate with Austin once and for all."

"It's a girl," Brooke says confidently, crossing her arms.

"No way," Austin counters, shaking his head. "It's a boy. I can feel it."

I laugh softly, resting my hand on my belly. "I just want it to be a surprise," I say, smiling.

Sara raises an eyebrow, her lips curling into a grin. "Haven't you had enough surprises?"

We all burst into laughter, and as the moment settles, I feel Everest's lips press gently against mine. "I love you," he murmurs softly.

"I love you too," I whisper back, leaning into him for a second before Brooke claps her hands.

"Come on, guys," she says with a grin. "Let's get going! We've got a graduation to get to."

With that, we all head out the door, ready to celebrate Brooke and Sara's big day. As I walk beside Everest, my hand resting gently on my belly, I feel... content. Safe. Loved.

Avery's POV

The sun blazed down on us as we sat in the crowded stadium, the heat unbearable. I shifted in my seat, fanning myself desperately with the graduation program. The thin paper barely made a difference, and I could feel the sweat dripping down my back.

"Are you okay, baby?" Everest murmured softly, his arm draped protectively around me as he glanced down with concern.

"I'm fine," I mumbled, even though I was absolutely not fine. I was seven months pregnant, sitting in the blazing heat, and felt like I was about to melt into the chair. "I just... can't wait for this baby to get here."

Everest leaned in, brushing a kiss against my temple. "We're almost done. Hang in there, sweetheart."

I nodded, trying to focus on the stage instead of how miserable I felt. The announcer was going through the names, and I perked up when I heard Brooke's name.

"Brooklyn Anastasia Jones!"

Everest, Austin, and I all stood, clapping and cheering as loudly as we could. Brooke beamed, her face lighting up as she crossed the stage, accepting her diploma with grace. She glanced toward us, her eyes finding Austin first, and I swore I saw his chest puff out with pride.

"Sara White!"

Another round of applause erupted from us as Sara followed Brooke across the stage. She looked so radiant in her cap and gown, her smile wide as she held her diploma high. I wiped at my eyes, blaming the tears on the heat, but I knew better.

"They did it," I murmured, my heart swelling with pride.

After the ceremony, we all made our way to the field where the graduates were meeting their families. Brooke spotted us first, her face breaking into a wide smile as she ran toward us, Austin right behind her.

"You guys!" she squealed, throwing her arms around me first, carefully avoiding my belly. "I can't believe it's finally over!"

"I'm so proud of you," I whispered, squeezing her tightly.

"Same goes for you, Sara." I turned to her, pulling her into a hug as well. "You both did amazing."

"Thanks, Avery." Sara's smile was soft and genuine, her eyes filled with warmth.

"We need pictures," Brooke announced, already pulling her phone out. "Come on, group photo time again."

"Do I have to?" I groaned, feeling the heat bearing down on me again.

"Yes!" Brooke and Sara said in unison, giving me no choice.

———————————-

Later That Evening

After a long afternoon of celebrations and an early dinner, I was more than ready to be home. Everest helped me inside, his hand never leaving my lower back as he guided me to the couch.

"Sit," he ordered softly, his eyes filled with concern. "I'll get you some water."

I didn't argue. I sank onto the couch, sighing in relief as I leaned back against the cushions. My feet were throbbing, and my body ached in places I didn't even know could ache.

"You okay, mama?" Brooke asked, coming to sit beside me.

"I'm just tired," I admitted with a small smile. "This little one is keeping me on my toes already."

"Speaking of," Brooke said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Have you felt anything yet? Any kicks?"

I smiled softly, placing a hand on my belly. "All the time. Especially at night. It's like they're having a party in there."

Brooke giggled, leaning her head against my shoulder. "I can't wait to meet her."

"Me either," I murmured, my heart swelling with anticipation.

Everest returned with a glass of ice water, pressing a gentle kiss to my forehead before handing it to me.

"Thanks." I whispered, taking a small sip.

As I sat there, surrounded by the people I loved, I realized just how far we had all come. Brooke and Sara were on the path to their futures, Austin was still by Brooke's side, and Everest and I were about to start a family of our own.

Avery's POV

After Brooke and Austin left, the house felt quieter. Peaceful. But as much as I loved the quiet, I was suddenly all too aware of how alone Everest and I were now.

I watched him from the couch as he cleaned up the last of the dishes in the kitchen, his back to me. His broad shoulders flexed as he moved, and I couldn't help but let my mind wander. God, he looked good. He always did. But lately, he'd been... different.

Everest had been treating me like I was made of glass. Like one wrong move and I would shatter. It had been that way ever since the situation with Logan. I couldn't really blame him—I had been through hell and back—but I was stronger than he gave me credit for. And to be honest... I was going crazy.

We hadn't been intimate since before everything happened. It wasn't that Everest didn't want me—I could see the way his eyes lingered on me when he thought I wasn't looking, the tension in his jaw when I would brush against him—but he held back. Always.

I sighed softly, leaning back against the couch. I was seven months pregnant, and I felt... different. Bigger. My belly had grown so much, and while I knew it was natural, I couldn't help but feel... unattractive.

I'd caught myself staring in the mirror lately, taking in every curve, every change. My body was different now, and I wondered if that was part of the reason Everest had been so hesitant. Maybe he didn't see me the same way.

But damn it... I was unbelievably horny.

The ache had been building for weeks now, and I was at my breaking point. I missed the way he touched me. The way he made me feel. And I wasn't about to let my insecurities stop me from reminding him that I was still here. That we were still here.

After Everest finished up and joined me on the couch, we watched TV for a bit, but I couldn't focus. My mind was already planning my next move.

"Hey," I murmured softly, placing a hand on his thigh.

He glanced down at me, his blue eyes filled with warmth and concern. "Hmm?"

"I'm gonna go take a bath," I said casually, giving him a small smile.

"Okay," he replied softly, brushing a kiss to my forehead. "Do you need help?"

"I'm fine," I assured him, standing up slowly. "Just... relax. I'll be back soon."

But I had no intention of just taking a bath.

I stood in front of the bathroom mirror, letting my silk robe slide off my shoulders. It pooled around my feet, leaving me standing there in nothing but my bare skin. I ran my hands over my belly, staring at my reflection.

"You're still beautiful," I whispered softly to myself, trying to silence the doubt that had been creeping in.

I turned on the bath, letting the warm water fill the tub. I added a few drops of lavender oil, the calming scent filling the air as steam began to rise. I needed to relax... but I had something else in mind.

As the tub filled, I pulled my silk robe back on, tying it loosely at the front so that just enough skin peeked through. My heart pounded in my chest as I took a steadying breath. I don't know why I felt so anxious and nervous, it's not like I hadn't done this before, seducing Everest.

Everest was still on the couch when I stepped out of the bathroom, the soft glow of the lamp casting a warm light over the room.

"Bath ready?" he asked, glancing up at me.

"Yeah," I murmured, my voice softer than usual.

His eyes immediately darkened as they trailed down my body. The way the silk hugged my curves, barely concealing what was underneath... I saw the way his jaw clenched, his throat bobbing as he swallowed hard.

I took a few steps closer, standing in front of him. "Come with me," I whispered, holding out my hand.

"Avery..." His voice was strained, and I could see the hesitation in his eyes.

"Please." My voice was barely above a whisper, but it was enough.

Everest's resolve cracked. He stood, towering over me as he took my hand, his fingers lacing with mine. I led him to the bathroom, the steam from the bath already filling the room.

"I don't want you to be afraid to touch me," I murmured, turning to face him as I loosened the tie on my robe, letting it slide off my shoulders.

His eyes darkened instantly, his gaze raking over my body like he was seeing me for the first time in months.

"Avery..." His voice was rough, almost pleading.

"I'm still me, Everest," I whispered, stepping closer. "And I need you."

For a moment, he didn't move. But then his hand was on my cheek, his thumb brushing gently against my skin. "I don't want to hurt you," he murmured, his forehead pressing against mine.

"You won't," I promised, my lips brushing softly against his. "You never could."

That was all it took.

Everest's lips crashed against mine, his hands finally gripping me like he'd been holding back for far too long. I melted into him, every part of me coming alive again.

Everest undressed slowly, lowering himself into the tub, and I didn't hesitate to slide in with him, his hands guiding me carefully so I didn't slip.

I settled between his legs, leaning my back against his chest as I closed my eyes, stretching my neck out while he ran the warm rag over my skin. I felt completely relaxed... even though I was unbelievably horny.

So horny, in fact, that just the lightest brush of the rag against my nipple had me letting out a soft moan before I could stop myself. I froze instantly, my eyes snapping open as I glanced up at him. His dark eyes were already locked on me, filled with heat and something deeper—something primal. And that's when I knew.

"Sin..." I whispered, my voice barely above a breath as I turned in the water, straddling his lap. I could feel him—hard and ready—pressed between us, and he didn't look me in the eyes. Instead, his gaze stayed fixated on my body, drinking in every inch of me.

"Eyes up here," I murmured, grabbing his chin gently and lifting it, giving him a soft peck on the lips.

"You're so fucking beautiful, Avery," he whispered, his voice rough with emotion.

And just like that, tears prickled at the corners of my eyes. I was seven months pregnant—I had every right to be emotional, but damn, the way he looked at me made me feel like the most desirable woman in the world.

"Fuck me," I whispered, my voice shaking slightly, but there was no hesitation.

Everest's jaw clenched, his eyes searching mine, silently asking if I was sure. I gave a small nod, and that was all he needed.

I lifted myself slightly, positioning myself over him, and he guided me down slowly. A long, needy moan escaped my lips as I took him in—a feeling I hadn't felt in what felt like forever.

I sank down onto him fully, my body stretching around him in a way that had me gasping for air. My forehead fell to his as I tried to steady my breathing, but the ache—God, the ache—was unbearable. I needed more.

"Fuck, Sin..." I moaned, my lips brushing against his as I rolled my hips, testing how much I could handle. A deep growl rumbled from his chest, and his hands gripped my hips, guiding me slowly at first, as if he was afraid I'd break.

But I didn't want slow.

"Don't hold back," I whispered, biting down on his bottom lip, and that was all it took.

His grip tightened, and he thrust up into me, a sharp cry leaving my lips as the pleasure rippled through me. I gripped his shoulders, using them as leverage as I moved in sync with him. Water splashed over the edge of the tub with each movement, but I didn't give a damn.

"Jesus, Avery..." Everest groaned, his head falling back as he filled me deeper with each stroke. His hands moved from my hips to my ass, pulling me harder against him, meeting every movement with force.

My nails dug into his skin as my body trembled, the pleasure building quickly, overwhelming me. "Everest... I can't—"

"Yes, you can," he murmured, his lips capturing mine in a desperate kiss as his pace quickened. The sound of our bodies meeting, the water sloshing violently over the tub, and the sinful noises escaping both of us filled the bathroom.

"Fuck!" I gasped, throwing my head back as a shiver ran down my spine. My walls clenched around him, and I felt him twitch inside me.

"Come for me, baby," he growled against my neck, his teeth grazing my skin before sucking on that sensitive spot that drove me insane.

My entire body tensed as the wave of pleasure crashed over me. I cried out, my hands clawing at his back, and he wasn't far behind. With a guttural moan, Everest followed, his body shuddering as he filled me completely.

We both sat there, breathing heavily, the water now barely covering our legs after all the splashing. My head rested against his shoulder, and his arms stayed wrapped tightly around me as if he was afraid to let go.

"Fuck..." I whispered breathlessly, pressing a kiss to his damp skin.

"Yeah..." Everest chuckled softly, his fingers tracing lazy circles along my back.

"Maybe next time we should try the bed," he murmured, his lips brushing against my temple.

I laughed softly, still trying to catch my breath. "Where's the fun in that?"

"Damn, I love you," he said, his voice filled with so much warmth and affection that it made my heart swell.

"I love you too," I whispered, snuggling closer to him, content to stay in his arms for as long as possible.

—————————-

I woke up to the soft glow of the closet light shining in my face. Groaning, I lifted my hand to shield my eyes and sat up, blinking as I adjusted to the brightness. My eyes landed on a tall figure rummaging quietly through the closet.

"Everest?" I murmured, my voice still laced with sleep.

He turned, shutting off the light and slipping his leather jacket on. "Hey, baby," he said softly, walking over and sitting on the edge of the bed beside me.

"Where are you going?" I asked, noticing he was fully dressed—boots, jeans, the whole thing. I glanced at the clock on the nightstand. 2 AM.

"Just some club business," he murmured, brushing a hand over my hair. "Go back to bed. I'll be home soon." His tone was calm, reassuring, but something about it didn't sit right with me.

I nodded, even though that uneasy feeling was already creeping into my chest. I leaned forward, pressing a soft kiss to his lips before falling back onto the bed as he stood up and quietly left the room.

Ever since everything that had happened, Everest had been true to his word—he wanted to keep me and the club life completely separate. He didn't want me tangled up in that world anymore, and I didn't push. I never asked questions when he had to leave. I trusted him.

But tonight felt... different.

Something was off.

The morning light streamed through the curtains as I stirred awake, but something felt... off. I blinked a few times, my hand instinctively reaching to the other side of the bed where Everest usually was—but it was empty. My heart skipped a beat as I sat up, rubbing the sleep from my eyes. I glanced over at the clock on the nightstand.

9:30 AM.

My stomach tightened. He said he'd be home. He was always home when he promised, and even when he wasn't, he'd at least be in bed by the time I woke up. But this time, there was no sign of him.

"Maybe he got caught up," I murmured to myself, trying to ease the growing anxiety bubbling inside me. But that nagging feeling from the night before was still there, tugging at the back of my mind. Something wasn't right.

I pushed the covers off and stood up, stretching slightly before making my way to the bathroom. I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror—my hair a mess, eyes still slightly puffy from sleep, and my growing belly prominent beneath my tank top. I sighed, running my hand over it gently.

"Alright, little one. Let's get ready."

Today was supposed to be a good day. I had plans to meet Nana for brunch and spend the afternoon with her. Ever since the mafia had bought back my grandparents' house as part of what they owed me, Nana and Papa had moved back, along with Aunt Teagan. It felt like having my family close was finally helping me piece everything together again.

After a quick shower and slipping into a pair of leggings and a flowy top that accommodated my growing bump, I made my way downstairs.

The house was quiet—too quiet. No smell of coffee lingering in the air. No sounds of Everest moving around the kitchen like he usually did when he was home. I checked the driveway through the window, and sure enough... his motorcycle was gone.

The knot in my stomach tightened even more.

Grabbing my phone off the counter, I shot him a quick text: "Hey, everything okay? I'm heading into town to meet with Nana. Let me know when you're home. Love you."

I waited a moment, hoping for that immediate three-dot reply that usually followed whenever I texted him. But the screen stayed silent.

"Maybe he's just busy..." I whispered, but even saying it aloud didn't make me feel any better.

Pushing the uneasy feeling aside, I grabbed my keys and headed out the door.

At least I had the luxury of driving myself around now. After months of relying on Everest or borrowing someone else's car, I'd finally splurged and bought my own. A mom car, as Brooke called it—a sleek, white SUV with all the space I'd need when the baby came. Everest had laughed when I'd picked it out, saying it was "too fancy" for someone who used to ride on the back of his bike, but I didn't care. I needed something reliable now, and I was damn proud of it.

Sliding into the driver's seat, I adjusted the mirrors and placed a hand over my belly again.

"Alright, let's go see Nana," I whispered softly, trying to focus on the day ahead instead of the unsettling feeling that just wouldn't go away.

But as I pulled out of the driveway, that nagging voice in the back of my mind kept whispering.