48. Ivy
O nce upon a time, I thought pining for a pack would never amount to anything beyond fantasies. Today, my reality far surpasses even the wildest dreams I buried deep in my heart. My alphas have poured their love into me, unfettered.
They’ve made me a home where I can be held and safe for all my life—a long life at that. Their steadfast commitment to building our pack has made it possible for us to grow old together.
I started the day with much uncertainty over how my alphas and I would be perceived by the court. But I was pleasantly surprised to have been greeted with warmth by many. Whether it’s fear of speaking out or relief for the change we’ve brought, I’m not sure. It’s a question we’ll answer together—some other day.
Having a steadfast ally in the sovereign King of Lucernia likely helps others to embrace our unconventional situation, I’m sure. Hawthorn’s joyful acceptance of our pack, and his presence at our coronation, will do more for public perception than most anything else.
Many of our guests have even gone so far as to openly propositioned Thorn—much to Sage’s amusement. It seems pack living is not so unappealing with an unmarried, unbonded king on the market.
Thorn, on the other hand, has never been so pink in the cheeks. As handsome and eligible an alpha as he is, my brother is modest and repressed beyond compare. He’s no stranger to flattery but he’s not the flirt some of my siblings are.
Speaking of, the twins have remained fixed to Thorn’s side—presumably the result of a stern discussion prior to the celebration. I’m thankful he’s here to watch over them. As much as I love Daisy and Oleander, they are quick to stir up trouble and wield their beauty like weapons. I’d rather not have alphas fighting over their attention today.
Though I saw them both for a brief moment earlier, I’ve yet to speak to Aspen and Lily. I wouldn’t be surprised if they’ve both run off to partake in more of their secret dalliances. Perhaps not Aspen, given that Ciaran’s intended is in attendance today.
I met Prince Lanier briefly. He’s reserved but quite handsome with his golden hair and eyes like honey—a very different picture than Aspen.
I wonder—I hope, at least—that my brother and Ciaran don’t give up on whatever has bloomed between them. If I can have a pack, why could they not do the same? Lanier is also an alpha—surely he would want an omega for himself. Together, the three of them could even court Aspen’s bride to be.
I’m getting ahead of myself. But the romance of it all is dizzying.
“Why are you thinking so hard?” The scent of the sea wraps wafts through the air as my king steps behind me and rests a hand at my lower back.
The warmth of his body is a comfort. I sigh, leaning into his touch. “Just trying to solve the problem of our brothers. What with them being in love.”
Cillian offers me a conspirator’s smile—like he too has been pondering what to do. “I have hope they will figure it out.”
My smile is sly, devious as the beginnings of a plan start to form. “Yes. Especially if we help push them in the right direction.”
“Little terror,” he chuckles, brushing a kiss to my temple. “You shouldn’t meddle.”
“Meddling is such fun though.”
“Hmm. And should I expect to be dragged into your scheming?”
His tone is teasing, his touch is tender, and I smile wide at the easy teasing that passes between us.
“ Naturally .”
My mate laughs, dragging me closer so he can envelop me in his arms. “I suppose some meddling can’t hurt.”
Cillian floods our bond with the warmth of his adoration. It’s a promise to stand by my side—as my partner—through all life brings.
“I love you,” I say—my heart full of the same tenderness.
“And I you, my sweet fate.”
Truly, no dream could ever be so grand as this.