Chapter 32
606words
"The moon goddess has blessed this union," she announced, her voice carrying surprising strength for one so old. "The silver wolf and the Alpha, joined as the ancient texts foretold. Their bond will bring strength to the pack, healing to the wounded, and a new era of peace and prosperity."
A cheer went up from the gathered wolves, so loud it seemed to shake the trees themselves. Derek pulled me into a kiss that sent silver light spiraling around us, visible to everyone present—a physical manifestation of our bond.
"My wife," he whispered against my lips. "My Luna. My everything."
"My husband," I replied, savoring the word. "My Alpha. My heart."
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The celebration lasted well into the night. There was feasting and dancing, stories and songs. Pack members came to offer gifts and pledge their loyalty anew. Even representatives from neighboring packs attended, curious about the silver wolf who had become Luna of the Sterling pack.
As the moon began its descent, Derek took my hand, leading me away from the festivities.
"Where are we going?" I asked, though I could feel his excitement through our bond.
"To our home," he replied with a mysterious smile. "Our real home."
We traveled deeper into the territory than I had ever been, following a path that wound through ancient trees and alongside a bubbling stream. Finally, we emerged into a secluded valley, and I gasped at what I saw.
A beautiful stone house stood nestled against the mountainside, windows glowing with warm light. Steam rose from natural hot springs that dotted the landscape around it, their waters gleaming silver in the moonlight.
"Derek," I breathed, "it's beautiful."
"It was my grandparents' home," he explained, leading me toward it. "No one has lived here since they passed. I've spent the last month having it restored for us." His eyes met mine, suddenly vulnerable. "Do you like it?"
In answer, I pulled him down for a kiss. "I love it. It's perfect."
He swept me into his arms, carrying me across the threshold in the human tradition. Inside, the house was a perfect blend of rustic comfort and natural elegance—stone floors covered with soft rugs, a massive fireplace already lit and warming the main room, furniture that invited relaxation and conversation.
"This is just for us," Derek said, setting me down gently. "A place away from pack duties where we can simply be Derek and Lena."
I explored the house, marveling at the thoughtful touches—bookshelves filled with volumes I loved, a study where I could continue my father's research, windows positioned to catch both sunrise and moonrise.
"There's one more thing I want to show you," Derek said, taking my hand again.
He led me through glass doors onto a private terrace, where the largest of the hot springs awaited, steam rising invitingly from its surface. The water glowed with an ethereal blue light from minerals in the spring, and the stars overhead seemed close enough to touch.
"Our own private piece of heaven," he said softly.
Without hesitation, I began to unfasten my wedding gown. Derek watched, his eyes darkening with desire as the silver-white fabric pooled at my feet. I stepped into the warm water, sighing as it enveloped me.
"Are you joining me, husband?" I asked, extending my hand.
He shed his ceremonial clothes in record time, making me laugh. As he slipped into the water beside me, pulling me into his arms, our bond flared with shared desire and love so intense it took my breath away.
