untamed hearts

CHAPTER 22 : THE STORM BEFORE THE CALM

Life with baby Leo had settled into a routine, but as the months passed, Jax and Riley began to face new challenges. Parenthood had brought them closer, but it also tested their patience and communication in ways they hadn't anticipated.

A Heated Disagreement

One evening, Riley came home later than usual, her shoulders heavy with the weight of a grueling day at work. Jax, already frazzled from a long day with Leo, was pacing the living room with their crying son in his arms.

"You're late," Jax said sharply as Riley walked in.

"I know," she replied, sighing. "A last-minute crisis came up at work."

"You could've called," Jax retorted, his tone sharper than he intended.

"I didn't have time!" Riley shot back, dropping her bag on the couch. "Do you think I enjoy being away from you and Leo?"

The tension in the room was palpable. Jax placed Leo in his crib, the baby's cries slowly subsiding. Turning back to Riley, he crossed his arms.

"I'm doing everything I can here," Jax said, his voice quivering. "I'm exhausted, Riley. I need you."

Riley's defenses crumbled at his words. She took a deep breath, stepping closer to him. "I'm sorry, Jax. I didn't mean to make you feel like you're alone in this. I'm trying to balance everything, but I know it's not enough."

Jax looked at her, his eyes softening. "We're both trying. But we need to communicate better—lean on each other, not fight."

Riley nodded, tears brimming in her eyes. "You're right. I'll do better. For us. For Leo."

They embraced, the weight of their emotions lifting as they held each other tightly.

Reconnecting as a Couple

Determined to rekindle their connection, Riley surprised Jax with a date night at home.

After putting Leo to bed, Riley set up a candlelit dinner in the dining room. Jax walked in, his eyes widening at the sight.

"What's all this?" he asked, smiling.

"An apology," Riley said, pulling out a chair for him. "And a reminder that we're more than just parents. We're partners."

They spent the evening laughing, reminiscing about their early days, and dreaming about their future as a family.

"You're still the same sassy omega who stole my heart," Riley said, her eyes twinkling.

"And you're still the playgirl alpha who turned my world upside down," Jax replied, leaning in for a kiss.

Leo's First Word

A few days later, Jax was playing on the floor with Leo while Riley worked at the kitchen table.

"Can you say 'Dada'?" Jax cooed, holding up a stuffed animal.

Leo babbled, his little hands reaching for the toy.

"Say 'Mama,'" Jax tried again, grinning as Leo's eyes sparkled.

To everyone's surprise, Leo suddenly blurted out, "Love!"

Jax froze, his mouth falling open. "Did you hear that, Riley?"

Riley rushed over, her heart swelling. "Did he just say—"

"Love," Jax confirmed, tears welling in his eyes.

They both hugged Leo, their laughter and joy filling the room.

The Calm After the Storm

Later that night, as they lay in bed, Riley turned to Jax. "No matter how tough things get, moments like that make it all worth it."

Jax nodded, resting his head on her chest. "Leo's first word couldn't have been more perfect. It's what binds us together."

Riley kissed his forehead. "Love will always be our foundation. You, me, and Leo—we're unbreakable."

As they drifted off to sleep, Jax and Riley knew that while the road ahead wouldn't always be easy, their love and commitment to each other and their son would guide them through every storm.