The next three days' passed far too slowly for Jeremy's liking. Thankfully he had something to keep him occupied until he could collect Kate for her first Christmas at Stonehaven. He'd finally completed work on a small project he'd been dabbling on in recent weeks but hadn't thought he'd ever show anyone. He still wasn't sure he wanted to, but was toying with the idea of giving it to Kate as a Christmas present. He felt oddly nervous about it, which was absurd. Kate wasn't overly fancy and he knew she'd appreciate anything he gave her, but perhaps because he wanted to please her, Jeremy felt somewhat anxious about her reaction.

Naturally he hadn't told her about it despite the fact that they talked frequently, often at length before bedtime when Kate had settled in for the night. He knew she was tired a lot and regularly went home during her breaks to take short naps. He wished she was closer to him so that he could monitor how she was doing, knowing that she downplayed the effects of her pregnancy because she didn't want to worry him.

It was something that weighed heavily on Jeremy's mind. He wanted her closer and hated that she spent her nights alone. He wanted to be there to share every milestone of her pregnancy and that was hard to achieve when they lived so far apart. Then there was the matter of her safety. While he was sure Roman was no longer in the country, he couldn't be sure that he wasn't still a threat. The best way to safeguard Kate was to have her at his side and the only way to do that was if they lived together. He knew leaving Stonehaven permanently wasn't an option and unfortunately, neither was asking her to move in with him.

If circumstances had been different, he'd ask her to marry him. Not just because she was going to be the mother of his children, but because he loved her and the idea of keeping her on the fringe of his life did not appeal to him. But werewolves didn't get to marry. Clay and Elena would be unique, the first wolf couple able to participate in the human ritual. But for him it wouldn't be possible, not if she wanted to avoid an all-out war to take control of his pack and his territory. The thought of a battle didn't really intimidate Jeremy as much as the thought of the possible consequences. His pack would place their lives on the line for him, but he didn't want that. Never mind what would happen to Kate once their children were born. He couldn't risk any of their lives.

Driving her car into town, Jeremy parked it at her place before setting out on the short walk to the hospital. It was cold out, but he was dressed with sufficient warmth not to mind too much. When the Medical Center came into view, he recognised Kate exiting through the revolving front door, both hands filled with bags as she trudged through the snow towards his Land Rover parked out front.

Just the sight of her filled him with indescribable joy. They hadn't known one another for very long, but the thought of losing her again, of having to live a life without her was completely inconceivable. Without even trying Kate had burrowed her way into his heart, his life, his every thought and prayer. All his plans going forward was to protect her and their unborn children and hopefully to secure a future in which they didn't need to hide from anyone.

"Need some help?" he asked, coming up behind her.

Kate whirled around, beaming. "Jeremy! You're early!" She launched herself at him and he hugged her close, savouring in the feel of her against him, inhaling her sweet scent deep into his lungs before succumbing to the temptation to kiss her.

"Now that's what I call a welcome," he murmured, when they eventually drew apart.

Her cheeks were flushed a pretty pink, her eyes sparkling behind the rims of her spectacles. "I've missed you," she said.

He'd missed her too. "I'm here to get you. Ready?"

She nodded. "I just need to get my purse."

"What's all that?" Jeremy asked curiously, glancing at the bags she'd placed in the back of the car.

"Gifts."

He closed the back hatch and frowned at her. "You know that wasn't necessary."

"I know, but still. It's Christmas." She handed him the car keys. "Let me grab my purse. I'll just be a minute."

Darting across the snow covered sidewalk Kate dashed back inside. Seconds later she returned, her purse slung across her red coat. Pulling her woollen cap off her head, she climbed into the passenger seat.

"How are you feeling?" Jeremy asked once she'd settled in.

"Good," she replied instantly. When he kept looking at her she flushed. "I do feel well, just a little tired - which is completely normal. In another couple of weeks that will pass." She reached across and brushed the backs of her fingers against his trimmed beard. "I'm fine. Really. You don't have to worry."

"Worrying is what I do," he admitted with a smile. "It's pretty hard not to."

Her eyes softened. "If it makes you feel better, you have eight worry-free days ahead of you."

"I like the sound of that."

Kate grinned. "So do I, actually."

Jeremy grabbed her hand and kissed her palm. "Let's go home." He saw her eyes flicker in surprise at his choice of words, but she didn't comment. He was glad, since he didn't know what had prompted him to say that. Starting the car, he headed towards Stonehaven.

By the time he drove up the driveway, Kate's eyes were closed. He parked beside Nick and Clay's vehicles before gently shaking her shoulder. "Kate, we're here."

Blinking up at him, her lips parted. "I'm sorry. Did I fall asleep?"

She's adorable, he thought as he watched her. "There's no need to apologise."

Sitting upright, she pushed her hair back. "No wonder the drive seemed to pass by so quickly."

"Come on, you need to get some rest." Jeremy opened his door.

"I don't need rest," he heard her protest as he reached her side. "In fact, I want to make some—" She stifled a yawn before looking up at him guiltily. "Okay, maybe a few minutes rest."

Jeremy laughed, escorting her inside. "Why don't you go upstairs and lie down for a while?"

Kate was unbuttoning her coat. "But I haven't even seen the others."

"They'll still be here later."

"Will you come with me?" she asked invitingly, reaching out to run her hands down the front lapels of his jacket.

Jeremy groaned. He was tempted. "You won't rest if I do. Besides, I have some things to discuss with Clay. There's a fire in my bedroom, so it'll be warm and comfortable."

Kate wrinkled her nose in disappointment. "Alright." She leaned in for a kiss. "See you later."

Jeremy watched as she walked up the stairs and disappeared beyond.

He found Clay, Elena and Nick in the kitchen. It smelled delicious; warm vanilla, spiced plum and ginger root permeating the air with a decidedly Christmassy scent. Elena had of course bullied all the men into helping her prepare some of her favourite festive treats – theirs too – they just didn't take as much joy in the preparations as she did.

"Where's Kate?" Elena asked, peering towards the doorway. Jeremy was well aware of how much Elena liked having another woman around. It made him happy to know that he'd been able to provide her with some of the companionship she'd lost when she'd moved back to Stonehaven from Toronto.

"Upstairs, resting," he replied, reaching for a mug and pouring himself some coffee.

"How's she doing?" Clay enquired. He was sitting at the table with Nick, mugs of coffee and a plate of spiced biscuits between them.

"Fatigued, but well otherwise," Jeremy said with a smile.

"At least she'll have a nice break over the holidays." Elena shoved mince pies into the oven.

"That kid's already taking its toll," Nick quipped, taking a sip of his hot beverage.

Jeremy sat down at the head of the table. "I wanted to talk to all of you."

Curious, Elena moved around the table and lowered herself into the vacant seat beside Clay. "What about?"

"Since I announced Kate's pregnancy, we haven't really talked about what that's going to mean for us, as a pack." Everyone was watching him intently. "I haven't discussed this with any of you at length, but I'm sure you are aware that I'd like to challenge pack law regarding wolf-human relations, specifically pertaining to mothers' and their offspring."

Nick nodded. "I think it's time."

Elena agreed. "You're doing the right thing, Jeremy. Think about what this could mean for so many of our kind? For the human mothers', too."

"You do realise that what you're suggesting will be met with heavy opposition?" Clay warned.

"Not from you, I hope?" Elena asked her fiancé sharply.

He smirked. "Not from me, darlin'"

"I am aware that it won't make me popular and that what I hope to achieve won't happen overnight, if anytime soon, but we've got to start somewhere. If Kate and I have a son, I won't force her to hand him over to me if I am unsuccessful in my endeavour."

"But Jeremy—" Clay protested.

He held up a hand. "I know what you're thinking but I couldn't do it to her."

"So you'd do it to yourself," Nick replied knowingly.

"I'm hoping it doesn't come to that. I'm not asking any of you to be a part of this. It will be dangerous. If Roman hated me before, my proposition will surely push him over the edge. There may be retaliation. I don't expect any of you to volunteer to fight this with me."

"You think we'd let you face this alone?" Elena asked, incredulous.

"I don't expect blind loyalty, Elena. Not when lives are at stake."

"I, for one, cannot think of a cause more worthy of my support. You know how I feel about this matter, Jeremy. Whatever you need, I'm with you," Nick declared.

Touched, Jeremy placed a hand on the younger man's shoulder. "Thank you."

"I feel the same. Changing this law would benefit all of us." Elena said, her gaze encompassing everyone present. "Logan could come home with Rachel. Jeremy could raise his son or daughter without having to lose either one. Nick's right. There is no worthier cause." Elena had always been an advocate for change, had wanted it for a long time. Jeremy had been the one who was too blind to see its merits until he'd been personally affected. He was grateful for her presence in their lives and while he could never condone what Clay had done to her, he was glad that it had prevented him from killing her.

Jeremy gazed at past Elena. His son hadn't said a word yet. He wouldn't blame Clay if he decided to leave. This was, afterall, Jeremy's fight, one he'd expected to champion on his own.

Clay reached across the table, his hand gripping Jeremy's forearm in solidarity. "You know I'm with you, Jeremy. No matter what."

"Thank you, all of you."

Jeremy felt overwhelmed. This was what family was all about, why packs existed and why wolves thrived within the fold. Loyalty was one thing, but love was what kept them all together, what gave him the strength to do what he knew would not be an easy task. Without Clay, Elena and Nick, his werewolf family, he knew he'd be nothing.

Kate felt refreshed after her nap. Walking to the bathroom, she washed her face before finally feeling more like herself. These days she felt tired all the time and a nap was essential to keeping her going for longer. Thankfully work had been winding down with most people leaving town for the holidays to visit with family in the city – which was the main reason Dr Robinson didn't bother to keep the practice open between Christmas and New Year. Because emergencies were diverted to the hospital, there really was no reason to keep the staff working when they could take the time off to be with their loved ones.

Kate was excited at the prospect of spending Christmas with Jeremy and his family. They'd all gone to such great lengths to make her feel welcome and she appreciated it. Of course she'd be lying if she said she didn't miss her parents even more than usual around this time of year and being alone would have been dreadful.

She was walking back onto the bedroom when she heard her mobile ring. Rummaging around in her handbag she located it. Smiling, she answered, "Sara!"

"Finally!" came the familiar tone of exasperation from the other end. "Getting hold of you these days is like trying to place a call to the president."

Kate rolled her eyes. Sara was so dramatic. "Sorry. It's been a little crazy lately." She still hadn't told her friend about her pregnancy and honestly, she didn't know how. Everything was more convoluted because Jeremy wasn't a normal human. She knew she'd have to tell Sara eventually, now just wasn't the right time. "How are you? And your parents?"

"We're all fine. I miss you though. I'm sorry I haven't been able to visit. My Mom guilt tripped me into staying for Christmas."

Amused, Kate sat down on the bed. "That's okay. They haven't seen you in a while. I understand."

"But I promise to see you in the New Year. In fact, that's why I'm calling – well, other than to wish you a very Merry Christmas and to thank you for the lovely gift; it's beautiful – I'm coming to stay for a couple of days in about a week's time."

Kate's stomach dropped. "Oh…wow, that's… sudden."

There was silence on the other end of the line. "Please don't overwhelm me with your enthusiasm," Sara replied, a trace of sarcasm in her voice.

"I am glad that you're coming! It's just…unexpected, that's all. Of course I'm thrilled." She hadn't even told Sara about Jeremy. Her friend was going to freak out.

"Are you sure?" she asked sceptically.

"Yes, absolutely," Kate replied with conviction. She'd have to figure something out. She had some time to determine how she was going to tell her best friend that she'd not only met the love of her life, but she'd also gotten pregnant in the process.

"What are you planning for Christmas? I hope you're not alone?" Sara asked, concerned.

Despite everything, Kate missed her and would be happy to see her. "No, I'm spending it with…some friends."

"Oh good," she replied, the relief in her tone evident. "I had worried about that."

"Don't. I'm fine," Kate assured. "Will you let me know when your plans are confirmed?"

"Definitely. I can't wait to see you!"

"Me too! Merry Christmas, Sara. And say 'hi' to your parents for me!" she added just before they disconnected.

Kate knew Sara would be genuinely happy that she was happy, but things were complicated. If her friend knew she was pregnant, she'd likely do something stupid, like give up her surgical residency if she thought Kate needed the support. Sara was smart and with two years left of her program before she graduated, Kate did not want her friend to abandon her dreams. Together with Jeremy, they'd figure out how much Sara needed to know.

Slipping back into the black knit dress she'd removed when she'd climbed into Jeremy's bed, she went in search of the other members of the household. As was usually the case, she found them congregated in the kitchen.

Jeremy, sitting as the head of the table looked as handsome and commanding as ever. The way his eyes lit up when he saw her made knees wobble. Elena was manning the oven, mitts in hand, while Clay and Nick were seated opposite one another sipping on coffee and nibbling on biscuits that smelled delectable.

Clay waved a hand in welcome.

"You're up," Elena exclaimed with a smile, wrapping her in a fond embrace. The blonde smelled of cinnamon and sugar.

"Finally!" Nick teased. "I was starting to wonder if you'd gone into hibernation."

"Sorry for not popping in before I headed upstairs," she apologised, laughing.

"Nonsense." Elena steered her towards a seat beside Jeremy. "Why don't you sit down? Try one of my biscuits? It's my third batch. The other two sort of…flopped."

"Understatement," Nick mumbled into his mug as Clay kicked him under the table. "What?" he asked innocently.

"Watch it," Clay warned, but without any heat to his threat.

"Did you rest well?" Jeremy asked her quietly, his eyes focused on her with loving intensity.

She nodded, her cheeks growing warm. "I did, thank you."

Satisfied, he sat back with a smile. Kate turned towards Elena. "Actually, I'd like to help." She eyed the cookie dough on the counter.

"Really?" Elena asked, eyes filled with gratitude. "Please tell me you know how to bake? The guys are useless," she joked.

Clay and Nick protested loudly, while Jeremy's lips curled into one of those sexy smiles that made her belly flutter.

"I admit, cutting trees out of dough is not my favourite pursuit," Nick defended, eyeing Elena.

"You just like eating them when they're done, I know."

He grinned. "They do taste really good."

Kate shook her head, entertained. "What can I do?"

"Here's an apron." Clay handed her a white one.

"Right," Elena said looking pleased with herself. "Let's get started."

Kate and Elena spent the rest of the afternoon baking cookies while the men looked on, sampling a few on occasion. It was a lot of fun and they conversed on a host of different topics ranging from Kate's experience as a doctor to Jeremy's art exhibition to Clay's students. She enjoyed being around Jeremy's family. They were all lively, smart, engaging individuals, each of them so interesting and diverse. And it was clear that they looked to Jeremy as a guide, as a sounding board, as someone whose council they valued. What was also evident was how incredibly proud he was of all their achievements. He openly praised them, encouraged them and offered advice, all of which they accepted graciously and with an eagerness Kate found endearing. She'd never doubted that Jeremy would be a good father to their children, but if she had, their current conversation would certainly have allayed any fears. He was going to be wonderful.

After dinner everyone gathered in the sitting room where Nick, in a particularly lively mood, played some trendy music from his iPod. Extending a hand towards Kate he asked, "May I?"

Grinning, she grabbed his proffered hand and was swung into his arms. Elena, who was looking at Clay expectedly, rolled her eyes when her fiancé shook his head, amused. Turning, she grabbed Jeremy's arm and pulled him up alongside her. "Come on, Jeremy. How about a dance?"

He laughed softly before obliging, dutifully twirling her around the room. There was loads of laughter as Nick, gregarious as ever, dipped and swirled Kate about. She was having so much fun. When the fourth song on his playlist started, this one slower and more romantic, Nick called, "Swap!"

Before she knew what was happening, Kate was shoved away and caught up in a pair of strong arms she instantly recognised. Giddy, she grinned up at Jeremy who reciprocated, shifting his hold so that one arm was curled around her back and the other held her hand loosely clasped in his. Staring up at him the world narrowed until it was just the two of them, shuffling slowly together. Laying her head on his chest, she closed her eyes and allowed herself to drift. "I love this song," she whispered.

"I don't even know it," Jeremy admitted sheepishly. She looked at him in surprise. It was an Ed Sheeran ballad that had been charting for a few weeks. "Popular music's not really my thing," he said with a little self-conscious shrug.

They continued to sway, her arms shifting to encircle his neck as both of his hands settled around her waist. "What is your thing?" she asked flirtatiously, feeling slightly hypnotised by the sound of the music and the heady feeling of being held against him.

His piercing blue eyes stared into hers. "Art, family" he replied, the fingers caressing her lower back causing delightful tingles to race up her spine. "And you." The way he said the last word, so softly, with such open sincerity, caused her breath to hitch.

How did I get so lucky? she wondered, watching his mouth descend toward hers. Instinctively her fingers curled into the hair at the nape of his neck, unable to breathe as she waited in anticipation. The kiss was feather light, a mere brush of skin, but she felt its impact all the way to her toes. They were still moving, slowly rotating in a circle, their lips barely connecting.

It took Kate a while to realise that the music had stopped. Pulling back, she looked around Jeremy's shoulders and noted that the room was empty. Clay, Elena and Nick were nowhere to be seen. "They're gone," she observed, astonished.

Jeremy chuckled. "They left as soon as Nick deposited you in my arms."

Kate's eyes widened. "I didn't even notice."

Jeremy brushed a finger across her lips. "I'll take that as a compliment."

His gaze was hot as it raked across her. She felt her body respond. "You know, I'm feeling a little…dizzy."

"Oh?" Jeremy asked drolly, brow raised. "How can I help?"

She pretended to contemplate his words. "I think I'd better lie down. Just to be safe."

Jeremy bent and placed an arm behind her legs, sweeping her up into his arms. "Then I should carry you, as an added precaution."

Kate's arms wound tightly around his neck, her heart beating at a frantic pace. "You have the best ideas," she whispered, raining soft kisses along his jaw as he carried her out of the room. At the entrance, he flipped the light switch to plunge the living room into darkness, the dying embers of the fire casting a muted glow, before heading towards the staircase.

"So I've been told," he murmured. Without breaking stride, Jeremy's lips swooped down on hers, this kiss bold and deeply erotic. Shivering with want, Kate lost herself in his embrace, eager to experience the hours of pleasure she knew awaited.

More happy and content than he'd been in years, Jeremy's eyes cracked open when he felt Kate stir beside him. She was a sound sleeper and barely moved at all. When she did though, it was usually to nestle closer to him. This time, she was moving away.

Frowning, he caught her arm. "Where are you going?"

She turned back to smile at him. "I forgot my bags in the Land Rover. I need to get it."

Jeremy threw the covers off. "Stay in bed. I'll get them for you."

"Don't you dare move!" Kate warned.

He looked at her enquiringly. "Why not?"

She huffed, holding the covers to her naked breasts. "I am not an invalid, Jeremy, merely pregnant. I can get my own bags."

"Kate, it's cold outside. There's no need for you to go to all the trouble. I will gladly fetch—"

She was glaring at him in that way that made him realise that no matter what he said, he was losing the argument. "Thank you for the offer," she stressed. "But I am happy to collect my own luggage."

Jeremy sat back, watching as she hopped off the bed and scrambled for something to wear. Amused, he saw her grab his shirt and throw it over her head, her glorious nakedness disappearing from view. "I hope that's not all you're wearing?"

She smirked, shoving her feet into her fur lined boots before grabbing her coat. "Pregnant, not stupid."

He shook his head, mildly exasperated at her stubbornness. "If you need any help, I'll be here."

She walked over to his side of the bed. "I love that you love me, but I don't need you to do everything for me. If I need help, I'll ask. I promise."

Jeremy sighed. "Okay."

Kate beamed at him, pressing her lips to his. Tilting his head to the side, their mouths aligned perfectly. What started as a gentle caress soon escalated. Slightly out of breath, Kate pulled back. Moaning in protest, Jeremy wrapped an arm around her waist. Laughing, she swatted at his shoulders playfully.

"I'll be back shortly. Then we can finish this," she promised, giving him a swift peck against his lips before slipping out of his arms. Grinning at him, she left the room.

Smiling after her, Jeremy sat up and sung his legs over the side of the bed. Glancing at the clock on the wall he noticed that it was just after 6am. The house was still silent so everyone must have decided to get a late start.

Standing, he was just about to walk into the bathroom when he heard Kate scream. The sound was sharp and piercing, like a knife to his gut.

"Kate!" he yelled, reaching for his jeans with one hand and scrambling for a sweater with the other. Shoving his feet into his boots, he ran from the room. He met Clay and Elena on the landing. Nick was coming down the hall, looking as dishevelled as the rest of them.

"What's going on?" Clay asked, hurrying after Jeremy.

"I don't know."

Vaulting down the stairs, he sprinted across the foyer and out through the front door. Immediately he registered the smell. It was familiar… but he couldn't quite put his finger on who it belonged to. That train of thought halted the second he saw Kate lying to the side of the Land Rover, his heart coming to a standstill as he kneeled beside her.

"Kate," he called frantically, lifting her into a sitting position. Her bags were strewn on the gravel beside her, their contents undisturbed.

Grasping his arms, Kate's eyes were slightly dazed and unfocused. "Jeremy."

"What happened?" he demanded, so scared he could hardly breathe. Clay, Nick and Elena were instantly at his side.

Kate looked down and he followed the direction of her gaze, his blood freezing in his veins when he saw the jagged cut on the skin on her left leg. Already the wound was seeping, a deep red trail of liquid tricking down the side of her calf. "He bit me," she whispered, stunned as though she hadn't registered what had happened.

Jeremy stared down at the bite, his mind refusing to accept what it meant. "No!" he breathed, his chest seized with pain. "No!"

"Jeremy, I smell—"

"I know, Elena," he barked, his eyes filling with tears of rage, of anguish… of fear. He knew who'd done this. He recognised the scent.

"It was Dimitri," he said raggedly. "Roman's nephew."