Chapter 26 - Mr. & Mrs. Iraklidis

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Paris

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I feel a hand on my shoulder, and I look back to see Anton, my supporter, looking sleek in his uniform. Today is the day that my mate and I become one. The woman of my dreams is finally about to be my wife.

All my life, I have avoided thinking about this day. I cared about Stefania, but she wasn’t my mate, and even though I was committed to making it work with her, I couldn’t pretend to be looking forward to this day. I consoled myself by reminding myself that I’ll be taking over from my father, who’s carried this burden since he was a boy. He is finally going to rest. He will still be available to advise and will later join the council, but it's not the same as ruling. But now, standing here today, it hits differently.

The gods saw my heart and brought me my one true love, and in the past nine months, this day has been all I have thought of. Suddenly, even this load that had been so intimidating is not anymore. She makes everything easy and worth it.

"You