Epilogue
Their wedding in Carlisle was a mere formality after the Gathering binding at the equinox, but it made Darcy’s mother happy to see her only daughter finally walk down the aisle of the Second Congregational Church of Carlisle.
And Jack, who was determined to start a new Carlisle pack and reclaim their lands in the Southern Bloodlands, understood the need to blend into the human world in order to co-exist peacefully.
For three cycles of Pleine Lune shifts, Jack had helped Darcy control her cravings, staying with her in the vault as she sated her hunger with the blood of animals only.
There would never be human bloodshed in Carlisle as long as Jack Beauloup was the Premiere Loup, and any Rougs who wished to live a more modern lifestyle were welcome in Carlisle. Others would be dealt with harshly.
Although the Council had considered an Inquisition to examine the rumors of a Roug-human binding between Jack and Darcy, Saint Germain himself had been the one to tamp down the gossip, declaring it outlandish and impossible.
Jack sensed that the older Roug was curious, but that opening such a conversation could be dangerous.
And besides, what Jack had said at the Gathering was true.
With Darcy a turned Roug now, how they found their way to one another was all but irrelevant to everyone but them.
Still, Tombeur and Tallis encouraged Jack and Darcy to stay away from the Northern Bloodlands for a few years, at least, until the strange binding of Darcy and Jack Beauloup had been forgotten.
Occasionally, in the dark of night, in the north woods above the small town of Carlisle, New Hampshire, the howl of a wolf is heard, followed by the answering call of its mate.
At first, the townsfolk were worried, but over the years, a tacit agreement has been formed.
The elusive wolves don’t bother the town, so the town leaves the wolves alone.
Though anyone walking on Main Street, happening by the porch of Willow and Amory Turner, might catch the good doctor’s change of expression when the wolves howl, how the corner of her mouth turns up as her dark eyes look with affection toward the woods.
Only Willow knows it’s just her best friend, Darcy, and Darcy’s true love, Jack, living happily ever after.