AvaI turned slowly to see Chris watching me, that familiar grin of his tugging at his lips. Sighing, I felt my shoulders slump a bit beneath his gaze.“No,” I admitted. “I don’t. And… I’m sorry for freaking out like that.”To my surprise, Chris simply shrugged. “It’s alright; I can’t blame you. It’
ChrisI sighed as I looked around the Packhouse, watching the servants and decorators scurry about like ants. Garlands of vibrant flowers were being strung along the rafters, tables draped in fine linens, and a large wooden backdrop erected for photographs.Everything was coming together perfectly f
…The cool evening air did little to soothe the ache in my chest as I rose from my desk and walked over to the minibar that I had installed in my office not that long ago. Often, I used it to break bread during meetings and not much more; but tonight, I needed something to soothe my frazzled nerves.
AvaI sighed as I scanned the list of tasks the lead decorator had given me, my heart sinking a little more with each item. Picking up the floral centerpieces, setting up the photography backdrop, ensuring the refreshment tables were properly stocked—it was all just a harsh reminder of the reality I
Ophelia’s eyes sparkled. “All the more reason for me to be here, don’t you think? After all, what are friends for if not to help each other through the tough times?”I opened my mouth to respond, but Leonard beat me to it, his voice a touch higher than usual as he addressed Ophelia.“Um, excuse me,
AvaI stared at Chris in stunned silence, my heart pounding furiously.“Ava,” he said, “I need to talk to you.”Before I could formulate a response, Ophelia appeared at my side, her silk, feather-trimmed pajamas fluttering around her ankles and wrists. “Chris?”Chris’s eyes flickered to her briefly
I couldn’t help but snort at the suggestion, shaking my head in disbelief. “Ophelia, we’re not teenagers anymore.”“Speak for yourself, darling,” she quipped. “I, for one, relish any opportunity to let loose and have a bit of fun—no matter my age.”Chris, who had been watching our exchange in silenc
AvaI wiped the water from my eyes, my heart still pounding from the leap Chris and I had taken into the glowing pool. As I gasped for breath, pushing tendrils of damp hair away from my face, I caught sight of Ophelia and Leonard still engaged in a splash war across the pool.Chris emerged beside me
Chris shook his head, rolling his eyes. “Unbelievable,” he hissed as I smirked with satisfaction.The trip to the clinic went by a lot faster on wheels than on foot. Chris remained glued to my side, his hair falling into his eyes as he repeatedly checked on me. I simply smiled in the backseat, and w
Epilogue — Part IIAvaAs the balloon hit me square in the face, I stumbled back, nearly losing my balance. Chris’s strong arm caught me, steadying me as a chorus of “Surprise!” filled the air.Our living room had been transformed, covered with balloons and streamers in shades of blue and silver. A
Her imprisonment in New Moon was coming to an end, and soon she would be returning to Moonstone on parole. The thought filled me with a mixture of apprehension and hope, as it did all of us.But that was not coming for another month.As the Elders filed out, I leaned back in my chair, unable to keep
Before I could comment, the Elders finally filed in, their usual robes swishing around them as they moved. Fatima was now the Eldest since Elise was gone, and so she took the end of the table opposite Chris.Claire hobbled in after her; she had been leaning on a cane lately due to a sudden onset of
Epilogue — Part IAvaMy hand rested on my belly as I waddled through the doors, half-ignoring Chris’s presence. He sighed, letting the door fall shut behind me.“What’s wrong?” he asked, following me to the circular council table in the center of the room.“Nothing.”That was a lie.It was my 40th
For a moment, Chris was silent, his gaze intense as he searched my face. Then, without warning, he dropped to his knees, burying his face in my skirt. His arms wrapped around my waist, holding me close.“Goddess, I can’t wait to marry you,” he murmured, his voice muffled by the fabric.I smiled, run
AvaI found Chris on a balcony overlooking the golden sunset of New Moon mountain. The sky was ablaze with vibrant oranges and pinks, casting a warm glow over the snow-capped peaks. The crisp mountain air carried the scent of pine and distant earth from far below, the scent of autumn.Back in Moonst
“As you should, Alpha Edward,” Chris said, clasping the Alpha’s forearm. “As you should.”It was heartwarming to see how everyone seemed to be thriving. The bonds between the packs were stronger than ever, and there was a palpable sense of hope in the air.Finally, it was time for the meeting to beg
AvaGolden sunlight streamed through the enormous windows, shafts of warmth spreading across the large meeting hall. A fire crackled merrily in the hearth, and a long oak table had been placed at the center of the room. Soft piano music played from a human-made record player in the corner, and counc