Bound by Love

28. Tears - Happiness and Grief, Both Bring Tears

"What? What did you say?" Ian asks, filled with shock.

"I need to know if she's my daughter. Please." Atticus begs, tears filling his eyes. "I need to know."

Wren pushes between her mates, forcing her way to the front. She stands in front of Atticus, staring up into his eyes. Her gaze flickers over his face, searching for any resemblance. Their hair is the same shade, his mouth similar in shape. Could it be?

Wren nods, giving him the permission he seeks. His hands tremble as he brings them to her cheeks, cupping her face tenderly and staring into her eyes he starts to cry.

Large salty drops flow down his face. "You have your mother's eyes."

Wren's eyes overflow with tears and she throws her arms around his waist, burying her face in his chest as he holds her in his embrace. He lays his cheek against her soft hair and rocks them back and forth as he whispers all his love, grief and joy.

"I love you my baby girl.

"We missed you so terribly.

"I've cried every day, praying for it to be a nightmare. Every night I would wake, and go to your room, hoping to find you in your crib.

"I'm so happy you're alive.

"I love you."

"I love you too."

~~~ ~~~ ~~~

Wren sits next to her father, looking at him with shining eyes as he returns her gaze with awe in his. Gray's on her other side, Van stands behind her and Ian sits on the floor at her feet.

Atticus holds Wren's hand in his. "I'm still not sure how this is all possible, but I'm so glad to have found you."

He spares a glance to the Brothers. "I can never thank God enough for you finding her and bringing her back into my life. But know this, if you ever hurt her, I will kill you."

Wren has to fight not to growl at the threat to her mates. She knows in her heart that it would never come to pass. Her mates would never hurt her so deeply.

The Brothers lay their hands on her, calming her. Gray kisses her cheek then turns to Atticus. "If we ever hurt her we would welcome your wrath. We never want to cause her pain."

Atticus stares at the three and gives them a curt nod. "I couldn't think of any men better for my girl. And it's good that she will have all three of you protecting her. And of course her mother and I will do everything in our power to keep her safe as well. I would not be able to survive losing her twice."

Wren nibbles on her lips and fiddles with the edge of her shirt. "Dad, when can I meet mom? What's her name?"

Atticus smiles lovingly, eyes lighting with joy. "Sweet Daughter. You mom's name is Gwendolyn. I have called her here and she should arrive soon. I didn't tell her why because I felt this too joyous of a surprise to be told through the mind link. She knows from my emotions that it is a happy occasion. So at least she isn't worrying over why I've called her away from our home."

Victor stands to his feet. "This is a family matter and we should let you celebrate in piece. We will need to figure out how it is Wren is alive when she was dead. And the hows and whys of her hybrid nature. But it can wait a bit longer. Emma, Helena and I will go on the search for our enemies. If we find any of them we will let you know."

Atticus stands and offers a bow of respect. "Thank you, my friend. I pray for a safe and successful hunt. Let us meet again at eventide to discuss strategies and hypothesis."

Victor bows, Emma and Helena give a nod and then they leave.

Wren waits anxiously for her mother to arrive. To have went so many years believing that your parents threw you away only to find you were somehow stolen from them...

All these years of feeling worthless, unwanted – unloved.

But now. Now, she feels so loved.

She has parents that love her, missed her. And now she has three mates that love her unconditionally, completely and forever.

A knock at the door has Wren's heart thundering and the butterflies in her tummy take full flight.

Her mom. She's about to meet her mom.

She freezes. Unable to move from her spot on the sofa. Knowing she's being ridiculous but worrying that her mom won't like her. That she'll be disappointed in who and what she has become. What if she thinks her hybrid status is ungodly, a disgrace, an abomination.

Atticus goes to answer the door while her mates, sensing her fears huddle up around her.

Gray smooths back her errant curls. "Wren, My Love. Do not fret so. She will love you just as you are."

"Of course, she will. Little Bird, how could she not? You're so sweet and such a wonderful person." Ian nuzzles her hand.

"Angel," Van kisses her temple. "She has grieved for you these long, long years. She will feel nothing but joy at your return to her."

He's right. Her father and mother have been in grief, thinking she had died and her lifeless body stolen from them. Her dad has welcomed her with open arms, and open heart. Surely her mother will as well.

Atticus returns and beside him is a beautiful woman. Like he said, her eyes are the same as her mothers. Pearl like orbs take in those in the room with curiosity. "Atticus, are you going to tell me why you called me here? You don't normally involve me in Council, or Guardian business."

She nods to the Brothers, and the questioning in her eyes grows as she takes in Wren. "Guardians. Are congratulations in order? Have one of you met your mate?"

Van steps forward with a bow. "Lady Gwendolyn. I am proud to announce that all three of us have met our match. I would love to introduce you to our lovely mate but I feel that your husband should have this honor."

Gwendolyn tilts her head to the side, it's odd for a mate to let someone else introduce the other part of their soul. "What is this Atticus."

Atticus smiles brightly, eyes glowing with his happiness. "Gwennie, dear. I have the best news." His eyes fill with tears and emotions clog his throat.

"What? What is it?"

He motions for Wren and she draws near. Hands nervously twisting about as she gets closer.

Atticus one hand on Wren's shoulder and the other on Gwendolyn's. "Gwennie, this is Wren. She is the mate to all three of the Guardians. But she... she's also our baby."

Gwendolyn stumbles back. Eyes filled with horror, betrayal and grief she glares at Atticus. "How dare you!" She spits out in disgust. "How can you do this to me?"

She then turns furious eyes at Wren. "And you! What kind of monster are you? I never want to lay eyes on you again."

"Wait, Gwennie let me explain. It's not..."

Gwendolyn takes flight, the breeze from her retreat and the echoing slam of the door the only things left to show she had been there.

Wren falls to her knees, sobbing into her hands. Her mates surround her, offering her whatever comfort they can provide.

Ian glares up at Atticus. "You best find your mate. If she doesn't apologize to Wren then we won't allow her near her ever again. I'd ban you from seeing her as well if I didn't know that would hurt Wren even more."

Atticus tries to touch Wren's cheek when Van blocks his way. "Straighten out your mate. We will comfort ours."

With a bow of his head, Atticus leaves the room.

The only sounds the breathless sobs of Wren and the soft murmurs of her mates.

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