Chapter 384
The two packs mingled freely, the ceremony having strengthened the Bonds more between our communities.
But I only had eyes for Athena, for my mate, for the woman 1 would love for the rest of this life and every life after.
“How do you feel?‘ I asked, keeping her close as people hugged us and offered their blessings.
“Complete,” she said simply. ‘Like I found something I didn’t even know I was missing. And powerful–Tristan, I can feel your Alpha strength through the bond. It’s incredible. It’s different from… before. Stronger. Richer.”
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“Me too,” I said, kissing her forehead. You make me stronger, better. A better Alpha, a better man. You’ve healed parts of me I thought
were broken forever.”
Derek approached us, his expression serious but his eyes warm.
“Congratulations, Alpha,” he said formally, then grinned. “And congratulations, friend. You two are perfect together. I’m honored to have
witnessed this.”
“Thank you, Derek,” I said, clasping his shoulder. “For everything. For standing with me tonight. For being there through the dark times and
the good ones.”
“Always,” he said simply, then turned to Athena. “Welcome officially to Silver Ridge, Luna. We’re lucky to have you.”
Orion was next, pulling Athena into a tight hug. “You’ll always be my baby sister,” he said, his voice thick. “But I’m so happy you found someone who loves you the way you deserve. Who sees you the way Tristan does.”
“Thank you for performing the ceremony,” Athena said, crying again. “It meant everything that it was you. That you gave us your blessing.”
“There’s no one else I would have trusted to do it,” Orion replied, then turned to me and pulled me into a hug as well. “Take care of her,
brother. She’s the most precious thing in my life.”
“After your own mate and children,” I reminded him, and he laughed.
“Fair point. But she’s still precious.”
“I know,” I said seriously. “I’ll spend my life proving I’m worthy of her. Of this second chance we’ve been given.”
The celebration continued long into the night, with food and music and dancing under the full moon.
Someone had set up tables laden with food that both packs could enjoy together. Music played, a blend of traditional pack songs and modern music, and wolves danced and laughed and celebrated this union of two of their leaders.
At one point, I pulled Athena aside, away from the crowd, needing a moment alone with her.
“Thank you,” I said, cupping her face in my hands.
“For what?” she asked, confused.
“For choosing me,” I said. “For trusting me with your heart after it was broken. For giving me a reason to live again, to love again. For
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Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.
