Epilogue
Asher held Juni’s hand as they walked into her small house. Brinnah sat at the table with Clover, helping her with homework. A big smile broke over her young face, and she jumped up and ran over to throw her arms around Juni and Asher.
“I’ve missed you!” Clover exclaimed. “Where have you been?”
“Asher and I have something to discuss with you,” Juni said with a smile. “First, let’s say thank you to Brinnah.”
Clover ran over and gave Brinnah a hug. “Thank you for helping me.”
“You’re welcome.” She winked at Clover. “Call me anytime you need me.”
They waved goodbye and then she pulled her sister down to sit on her lap.
“I know you remember when we sat on the steps,” Juni asked. It was the same question as before. Clover nodded. “I’ve changed my mind about falling love.”
Clover looked between her and Asher. “Do you love him?”
She nodded. “I do.”
Clover looked down for a moment, then over at Asher. “You won’t hurt her, will you? Or hurt me?”
Asher drew his breath in sharply. He got down on his knees in front of her and took her hands in his. “I vow, on everything I hold dear, that I will never raise a hand to you or your sister. I love her and you unconditionally, and I would be honored if you’d allow me to marry Juniper.”
The biggest smile broke across her face, and she threw her arms around his neck. Seeing her sister so happy filled Juni’s heart until it overflowed with love for him.
****
The funerals for Mrs. Smyth, Wayne, and Keegan happened on the rainiest day of the year.
Fitting, for what they were all gathered for.
Everyone in town showed up, including Zenia Zierdan and her mate Alpha Greyden James, as well as Mairi and her husband Lord Tavish MacAlary who flew in from Scotland.
There wasn’t a dry eye in Sheridan as they said goodbye to friends and family.
After the funerals, life moved on. The pack celebrated the birth of its next alpha. A son that Payton and Jericho named Theoden.
When the fall arrived, Asher surprised Juniper with a beautiful mating ceremony that doubled as a wedding.
Under the full moon, with all the pack witnessing, they pledged their love to one another.
Asher became a father to Clover and a protector for them both, vowing to give them the happiest life possible.
Everything was perfect.
For now.
The End