86. Letters || 86.2 Mates (additon)

Theres an addition to this chapter at the end. Also there is a corresponding love scene in the private chapters book. Find the bold print near the bottom to read where it begins.

So.

Its no secret the wattpad app has

Been messing up for all of is and esp

Us writers. My work has been deleted multiple times and i just got fed up with writing it so i wait days in between until my confidence is back up again because an app crash, deleting HOURS of work is a confidence crusher!

Its also the reason why my chapters never stop when i planned them to lol. Bc instead of posting a 12,000 word chapter, in forced into posting a 5,000 word chapter and then i have to tack on an extra one. Ugh.

But here we go.

Two chapters left and they are

Really happy and good chapters!

Im sorry it has come to an end but thank each and every one of you who have read, commented, VOTED! you voters are amazing.

And thank you for being apart of this story with me. Sending me inspiring messages.. those messages made me want to write more and be better. So thank you. You are all such amazing people and i love that we were able to go through this together! Ive made such good friends out of most of you!!!!

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These amazing covers were made by thequeenmarisela she sent 4 to me. All the same but with different filters!!! Im in love. I cant wait to do the cover contest!!!

♤

Zaryn

Once i saw what was about to happen, my world stopped moving and the wolf inside me made his needs known. Instinct took over, my heart beating out of my chest and i was picking Nova up out of the middle of the chaos which was about to unfold, hauling her inside the truck, locking the door for good measure. There was no way I was ever risking her safety again. I dont care how miniscule something seems.. it can always turn into something bigger.

Im her protector.

I have always been her protector.

Tension agression and anger so thick in the air coming from so many wolves, you could slice it with a knife. My fur bristled and hackles raised, ready for anything to happen as I stalked back toward the scene. My lip raised, showing a pointed canine, not happy that our mate could have been compromised because of Gabriel's agression - involving other blue moon pack members to show their own agression toward the alpha slayer.

Gabriel had Bane by the neck.. his beast had half shifted and he was ready to rip Bane into bits. Teeth and claws out..

No one made a move to stop him either.

But Blue Moon pack lawyers made it adamant to me they needed him delivered to their land, alive.

Blue Moon pack members were moving towards us on the front lawn of Dark Moon's pack house, their eyes flashing with their wolf. My dominance flowed outward and the wolf in me wanted to make all of them submit to his will but... these wolves...

They all wanted the alpha slayer dead.

I did too.

But saner heads prevailed.

"GABRIEL!!" my voice boomed over the snarls and growls from the wolves, exuding my dominance, letting them all know i was not happy.  There were so many wolves here today that it had everyone on edge as it was. We didnt need this.

I could hear Nova shouting from inside the car, worried for me as i felt her feelings through the bond. She linked me telling me to not put myself in the middle. She couldn't deal with losing me if something happened but this wouldnt turn into a fight. Not if i could diffise the situation.

If Bane is infact the wolf who ripped Gabriels son from my mothers body.. alive.. killing them both- well, then he did that way before he killed Conrad from behind, which is illegal. Punishable by death.

There are gray areas of the law though. He took his title regardless.. so Bane is considered the next Alpha. He wouldn't have that emphasised alpha power though until he signed the land deed. so right now he was just a lesser wolf with no dominance. And Blue Moon had the ultimate respect for their late Alpha... Bane wouldn't survive regardless.

My eyes flashed to Maxim, willing him to assist me on this. He rolled his eyes, complying with my plea for help with this very angry male about to rip the throat out of someone i needed to deliver alive and intact. He pushed forward as Nic pushed Grace to go stand by the cars. Eden stayed close by Maxim but not too close.

"Stop!" I came up to Gabriel, grabbing his arm as Bane thrashed in his grip, his eyes bugging out if his head.

Gabriel turned to me, wrenching his arm away.. his face twisted up in disgust. "Im not fúcking stoping X! This bíťch ate my fùçking pup out of my mates own body! While she stood there doing nothing but breathing!!! Your own mother!" He roared with moisture accumulating in his eyes before they narrowed on me. "How dare you tell me not to avenge your mothers death!" He garbled.

He was slowly cracking and shifting only to bring it back in.. skin rippling before smoothing back. He was on the verge of losing control.

I frowned at his words as other members of Blue Moon snarled at me. Did they think i wouldnt want to kill him myself? Because I would. My fists clenched and I had to strain myself not to lash out.

"Its not that, Gabriel! The Blue Moon lawyers want him delivered alive! Thats what i was told. Don't you wonder why? Because i do. I want to know what they have to say. I want him dead as much as you do trust me!" I shouted, my veins popping from the wolf wanting out to help Gabriel destroy this whimp of a male who goes after women and children and slits alphas throats behind their backs.

"Gabriel" Maxim boomed, stepping forth. His crystal eyes assesing the situation. "Is he truly the one? Are you sure?"

This made Gabriel pause. He jerked Bane closer, growling in his face as bane shook with fear. "Its fúcking him. I know his scent. I memorized it." His focus shifted to Maxim. "Maxim you know i dont forget a scent. You know i know its him and you know its him if i say so." His voice deathly low as the beast in him growled out the words.

Gabriel wasn't Alpha yet. Maxim still had both titles until Gabriel's name was put on that land deed as the owner. Then the moon would transfer that extra bit of Alpha dominance to Gabriel and take it from Maxim. But Maxim still held all that power within him.. even my own wolf recognized him as someone more dominant than we.

"Speak, mutt." Maxim narrowed his eyes down at Bane who was beyond frightened at this moment with three Alpha bloods surrounding him; Maxim, Nic and myself.. along with one future Alpha, Gabriel. Snarling Blue Moon wolves wanted a piece of him as well but i couldn't let that happen.

Yet.

Bane whimpered as Gabriel sunk his claws in his neck with his hand squeezing. "I. I dont remeber." He choked out before Gabriels grip increased. "Okay!!! Okay! It was me!"

"Thats it!" Gabriel roared, raring his hand back, his sharp claws ready to slice through the flesh at his throat but Maxim caught it in his massive grip. He growled, trying to jerk away from Maxim.

"Gabriel listen!!!' I spat, causing other lesser wolves to flinch. "Think this through! If Blue Moon has something they need him to be present for we need to find out what. Besides wouldn't you like to take his life and torture him a while before you send him to the moon so soon?" I attempted to appeal to his wolf.

His ears perked and slowly his hand was lowered as he really looked at me with those narrowed dark eyes. "Torture..." he growled, a grin spreading across his lips showing white sharp teeth.

"We need him alive." I reminded once more, my tone no nonsense and my stare hard. He knew i meant business.

Gabriel glared down at Bane who now stood still in his grasp, curious brown eyes looking me over, sizing me up. My wolf growled at the blatant disrespect and he tucked his head down.

"Alright." He conceded, shoving Bane into Geralds hands before turning to me with a hard glare. "But if i dont get what i want.. if i dont get my vengeance then , Zaryn.. i cant promise what will happen next. My wolf wants his blood. I don't want to spill the blood of innocent lives but it may happen if i dont get him." He whipped around to leer at Bane. "And when i get him.. im going to make it long and painful. You'll be kept alive for a year, mutt. But every day youll beg for death." His voice was low and threatening. Bane's eyes widened and he knew that Gabriel was telling the truth.

I nodded with consent before he forced himself to walk away toward the vehicle he came in. The rage in me boiled as i stared at Bane.. this wolf was no fighter. He was weak. He must have some balls to think Blue Moon would accept him. Has no one told him you cant just take over a pack? They have to either fear you or respect you and Bane was not dominant at all. They would kill him in a heartbeat and decide their next alpha from there.

Who told him that he would succeed in becoming an Alpha? They obviously wanted him dead.

Letting out a ragged breath, i looked up at a tired Maxim. "Thanks. I owe you."

His head nodded, his usual frown in place.

"This is bullshìt!" Someone shouted from behind us. It was a Blue moon female.. "when he gets to our land he will die!" She roared, others agreeing with her in loud shouts.

Maxim whipped around to face the wolves who had surrounded.. his features contorting. "STOP!" he bellowed in his alpha tone, thick with a dominant order. "Every one of you are on my land! And Alpha X is abiding by your pack lawyers wishes!" His voice was hoarse from all the shouting and Eden looked ready to go to him.. those two are peculiar around the other.. always seeming as though they are mates but she fights it. Their wolves must have imprinted on each other.

The crowd disperesed and Nic let me know it was time to go as he headed to where Grace stood by their suv with worry in her eyes for him. He had smiled at that.

Maxim gestured for Eden to come forth and it was just the three of us now. I glanced toward my truck, signaling to Nova i would be just a moment before turning around to face my two friends..

I sighed. "I think it was good of you to give Gabriel that title.. the land. He will need that to keep his sanity. But if things dont go well at Blue Moon.. then i do worry for everyone. This is a funeral and we need to be respectful. This Bane.. he doesn't seem to understand he wont be welcomed with open arms."

Maxim nodded. "It all seems strange. Its as if someone told him to do it but i dont care about all of that. I just want the male to die.. get it over with. Gabe's wolf will be more content once he is taken care of." He glanced down at Eden, the corner of his mouth twitching.

"Right. Well lets be on our way then. Eden? Im really sorry for your loss.. Nova will be there for you. I'll be fine without her for a little while." I gave her a smile.

She nodded and thanked me before we left for our respective vehicles.

I found that with Nova safe by my side, the beast within me was easier for others to be around. I wasnt constantly looking for that threat anymore.. no more eyeing wolves and sizing them up..

Its nice feeling somewhat..normal.

My thoughts swirled around inside my head as i got in the drivers seat of my truck, Nova sitting quietly with a tiny frown on her adorable face. She wanted to say somethig but let it go as i started the ignition and flew down the driveway.

We took off, following other vehicles down the path from which we came, the scenery going unnoticed to me this time around as i thought about this wolf who killed my mother.. who killed my unborn half brother and Conrad.. all done so with a cowardly approach..

I felt he would get his punishment by the moon herself.

"Are you okay at least?" Nova's voice broke my thoughts. She wasn't happy with how I had locked her up in the truck - the first words she had said since I returned. I could feel through the bond she was pissed at me and her tone suggested as much.

Glancing her way, i half smirked, "im fine.. Gabriel just got out of hand. Didnt want you hurt. Hes unpredictable right now Nova." I grabbed her hand in mine and she sighed.

If there was one thing i knew about Gabriel from the months i spent training with him is that, when he's mad? Really really mad.. you dont mess with him. He has a tendency to react with teeth instead of words. His beast takes over without his consent when he's that way and you dont want to be on the recieving end of that.

Alpha's can control it better but any wolf who has been through turmoil has a hard time being civil. Its just life. There are some wolves who can't be around others at all.. they choose to live in the wild, away from others.

We call those nomads. Some call it rogue.

"Zaryn." Her voice was quiet over the motor of the truck as we sped down the road towards Blue Moon territory.. the sun still hidden from view as more clouds came through to cover its bright rays.

"Yeah baby?" I kept my eyes on the road but my hand still held hers.

"Was Bane reall the wolf that- you know.." she asked lightly.

My brows furrowed, "you mean killed my mom?" My tone came off a little harsher than i wanted it to and i noticed as she flinched, reeling it in a bit for her benefit.  "Yes. Apparently so." I replied in a softer tone.

Silence settled between us for a few moments before she picked back up, "I want you to talk to me.. about your mom." She rubbed my palm with her fingertips and i felt agitated but i didnt want her to think it was her fault.

"Nova." I sighed, sparing her a glance.. those big green eyes glistening with moisture in them. She had a big heart.. "baby i dont want to go there right now. Im angry. I want to settle on that emotion for a while okay? Lets just.. get this day over with first."

She nodded, drawing circles on my palm.

I wouldn't be angry much longer if she kept this up. It was giving me tingles through my arm which began to become directed at another area of my body.

That's what i really needed....

"How are you feeling? Is your wound hurting much today?" I felt guilty for not taking that into consideration but it had slipped my mind because of all the agression.

"Its better today." She sighed softly, "i should be fully healed by tomorrow. Im lucky i didnt get most of the spears handle. My dad.. his wound is going to take longer.." she trailed off.

My frown deepened. She wasn't lucky. Something happened that shouldnt have. Not under my waych.. she should have never gotten hurt but i kept my mouth closed on the matter, not wanting to upset her.

The drive seemed longer than it actually was but within the next hour and a half, we were turning in to Blue Moon pack land, black suvs and trucks barelling down the dirt road mixed with gravel, throwing dust up behind the vehicles.

Nova was sound asleep, her seat leaning back. She had to take some medicine a while ago because of the pain that had began again which only made her sleepy.

Looking at her beautiful face, so innocent while she slept.. it made me feel extra-special the moon picked me to be her mate. She truly is an exquisite female and we have history. More history than most wolves have with their mates. We were able to overcome the horrible obstacles that were planted in our path and now here we were..

Mated with pups on the way.

There's only one thing left for me to do..

Marry her.

Moments later, i was opening her door, unbuckling her seat belt and rubbing her cheek. "Wake up sleeping Beauty. We're here." I whispered in a sing song voice..

Who would ever have thought...

Nova stirred, cracking a green eye open before sitting up as she looked around. "We're here alreay?"

"Yeah. Come. They've been waiting on us all to get here. We are a little behind schedule." She took my outstretched hand, swinging her legs over to step down on the step but i put my arms around her knees, lifting her out, shutting the door with my foot as I carried her towards the wooded area past the pack house where all wolves were headed.. a trail in the woods which led to their burial grounds where the ceremony would take place.

"I can walk you know." Nova rolled her eyes as she smiled up at me. I returned her smile.

"I know but i like holding my family." My eyes drifted toward her belly, thinking about how beautifully stretched and swollen it would be with my pups before long.. my wolf expressed his joy at the image.. forcing it through the bond into Nova's mind.

She snorted, "let me down you neanderthal. That wolf of yours is something else." She swatted me playfully and i eased her down, taking her hand as we kept on down the trail, white whispy garland hanging in the trees with lanterns strung up, lighting the way through the forrest which was dark dur to the overcast afternoon sky.

"He just likes the image of you pregnant with our pups. As do i." Leaning down, i kissed the top of her head and she smiled.

We should probably ease up on the pda. It wasnt respectful seeing as how a lot of wolves had lost their mates.. but sometimes its hard for me to control myself around my mate. Its hard for any wolf to control themselves around their mates.

"Where's Eden and Grace?" She frowned, looking around the area we were walking past, a large pond to our right.

"They are up ahead.. we lagged a little behind because i had to wake you up."

She nodded, biting her lip as she glanced over to the pond.. a dark look in her eyes as memories flashed in my mind through the link.

Pictures of Grace.. trying to drown herself in the freezing water only for Nova to dive in and save her....

She saved a life that had once caused her so much pain...

If that isn't a real Luna, i dont know what is.

Sensing her distress, i wrapped my arm around her, squeezing her to me slightly. "Come on. Lets pick up the pace. Your friends are going to need you." I kissed her temple and she smiled up at me.

That smile that once upon a time i had hoped for. That smile i had dreamed of her directing at me...

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We stood in a clearing with an old dilapidated small building with a crescent moon symbol on it not far away.. an old church that ancestors had worshiped the moon goddess in.

Headstones dotted around the land in clusters. Some Lunas and Alphas along with young pups that had been buried.. some were betas and their families. A few were sitting by themselves. Betas from the past that had met the moon too soon.. never finding mates. Alphas too.

I should feel lucky.. finding my mate so soon.

The ceremony was set up a bit like the rest, a large white tent with the healer working her herbs and smudging sticks.. we all had different traditions but our culture stayed the same.

I peered around, seeing Maxim standing off to the side with Eden and Grace a few feet away.  She was holding onto Nic's hand... their eyes on one casket. The only one present today.

Conrad's.

"There they are. Come on." I squeezed Nova's hand, leading her toward where her friends stood.. I knew Maxim wanted to be closer to Eden to comfort her but he wouldn't. Out of respect for his cousin Conrad.

Nova drifted off towards the girls, embracing them as they broke down in front of everyone while i took my stand beside Maxim.. we just stood.. looking out at all the wolves present. Blue Moon members mostly teary eyed and sobbing for their beloved Alpha.

"Its hard isnt it." My deep voice broke the silence between us as we just watched.

Maxim spoke but never turned his watchful gaze off of Eden who was breaking apart with Grace. "What is?"

"To watch someone you care for, suffer but you can't do anything about it."

He turned his head my way, glacier blue eyes expressing his desire and need to be by the female he had come to care for while the rest of his face was a mask of pišsed off indifference. "Yeah. It actually is." He peered over at the blonde again. "I dont understand why.. but my wolf and hers has imprinted on each other. That's rare. Very rare. She had a vision that she would be marked and mated to me.. or rather, the vision was of me in my wolf form with a mark while she wore a ring on her hand. I dont know if she was marked or not. But i assume she was. It was hard for her to take in.. she doesn't want to lose her gift but i wouldn't make her choose. Id be with her without having to mark her if she let me." His gruff reply made me smirk but i was also stunned slightly.

"You think youd be able to. But your wolf would want to. So it truly is an imprint? Your wolves have decided? She saw this vision after Conrad im assuming." I asked as i watched Nova hold Eden while Nic held Grace. Both of them beyond heartbroken.

"Yeah. Its an imprint. Im sure. I can feel the sparks now when i touch her. And yes the vision was only yesterday." He murmured.

Imprinting.. a thing that happened when two wolves who had lost their mates either after mating or before ever meeting them.. their wolves form a bond and decide they like each other and want to be with each other so they imprint. They remember the smell of the other and their presence gives you the same affect a real mate would only less.

It didn't happen often.

I was more shocked because Eden wasnt supposed to have a mate.

Turning to him, my brow rose. "How is it even possible for her to imprint with you when she was never born to have a mate?" I asked the question that i had thought.

Maxim shrugged, meeting my gaze. "Dont know. Maybe the moon feels for her. She has been dealt a shiťțý hand of cards afterall."

Maybe he was right.

"So have you, brother."

Maybe the moon was finally going to give Eden what she truly desired..

Someone to love her and to love.

Regardless of the outcome, i knew one thing for sure.

Maxim and Eden would end up together.

That look in their eyes as soon as she peered over at him said it all..

(A/n: i know Zaryn's pov was a little useless but it was more of a filler for me to get to this spot bc all my work was trashed by the app crashing this week so the re edit will be better.)

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MAXIM

As the ceremony began, i stood side by side X close by Eden but off to the side.. watching her.

His words reflected in my mind..

Why would the moon have her wolf imprint with me if she was never meant for someone? It made no sense but i wasnt going to ask.

Would she lose her gift?

Her hands were currently balled up into fists as tears rushed down her makeup free face.. the only thing remaining was her red lipstick. Her signature look.

My heart hurt watching her like this. It hurt bad.. my wolf was snarling inside my head for me to go to her but i didnt want the pack reacting negatively to that. She was here to show her respect. To conrad and blue moon. As was i.

The whole way here, it was just she and I in the car. She held my hand.. told me how sorry she was for my losses.. how proud she was that i had given the title of alpha of moon stone to Gabriel.. my wolf liked that she was proud of us.

Her wolf would peer out at me.. looking and watching which would cause mine to greet her as well but it was hard to not touch her anywhere but her hand as i drove. The moment i was able to hold her in my arms was like heaven..

I want to be like that for the rest of my life.

"Where is Gabriel." X whispered from my side as he glanced over at the prisoner wolf, Bane who stood there on his leash, Beta Gerald holding him there. Blue Moon pack members snarling at him every now and then. He had the audacity to look proud...

"He didn't come out here. He is up at the pack house.. sitting at the reception in the back yard with the lawyers.. they are waiting until the funeral is over before we meet with them in the back yard." I had linked with Gabriel, as i am still his Alpha. He hasnt taken title of Alpha yet.. all that needs to be done is signing his name to the deed for the transfer to take place. I was ready to get rid of this extra power in me.. it was making my wolf want to take the female we wanted to be ours much sooner than was appropriate..

But then again what is really appropriate..

He was silent after that as we watched them lower Conrad's casket into the ground after the healer and a few higher up wolves said some words..

Eden and Grace were crying... not wanting to let him go and i admit i was a bit jealous seeing that. In my eyes, i was there first, only she was just someone i had just met then. She was Conrads female for a while..

But i knew it was just my wolf. She had every right to mourn her loss.. his death..

I understood her like no one did. I knew she wasn't a whøre. She was like me.. so much power and strength running through you that your libido is running on high all the time. Fortunately im male but i was also meant to have a mate. She wasn't. Males took advantage of that, using her. Then she just got used to it.. thinking she was just there for their practice. I released a rumble as these thoughts crossed my mind...

She wasn't practice. She didnt deserve that.

But she wanted to be loved. Badly. And she wanted to love someone. The pup coming, made her feel like maybe that was it.. then she lost it and Conrad was there to pick up the pieces.. she fell for him and was happy but that wasnt really love. It was two lonely wolves not being so lonely.

Then she lost him.

She was meant to be with me though.. and once i felt she would no longer feel guilty about it, id make her see that.

They were covering the casket with dirt now and members were going up to Grace and Eden, giving their condolences. They all knew what Eden was to him..

Grace was a mess but she had Nic there to lift her up.. she couldn't stop the crying and many wolves looked toward her with so much pity and sadness. It was hard for me to watch, myself..

But Nova held Edens hand.. she held Grace's too as Nic held her other. They were better for it.. Nova was a calming wolf to be around when her mood was in check.. and i couldn't thank her enough for being there for Eden when i couldn't. Nova was a true Luna. She would make X's pack great.. standing by his side.

I needed my Luna.

The air was thick with extreme greif and sadness as we all walked back to the packhouse once the memorials were set up..

The pack lawyers called a meeting before the reception began to discuss the hierarchy of who will run this pack now and all of Blue Moon would be present.

I walked with X behind Eden, Nic, Grace and Nova as we were formed in somewhat of a line, the rest of the wolves behind and in front of us as we made our way past the pond toward the back yard of the pack house which was set up with more paper lanters, gauzy decorations with flowers all around..

Eden would glance back at me every now and then and my hands ached to reach out for her..

To just feel her skin and soothe her tears.. her mind.. her worries.. her heart.

"There he is." X pointed as we entered the back yard area, a stage of some sort set up where the four lawyers sat with Gabriel. His eyes darted around, landing on Bane who was being pulled by Beta Gerald. There was murder in those dark eyes of his.

"Come on. Lets get this on with." I sidestepped out of the line with X, walking past other wolves and making sure to brush against Eden which gave me a slight shiver.

My mind was now on vengeance for my friend.

We strode toward beta Gerald, both of our forms exuding dominance and agression as X took the leash from Gerald with a nod and proceeded to drag him towards the stage with us despite his grunts and jerks.

"Thank you all for coming." One of the lawyers said, standing with his gray hair balding on top, his glasses resting on his nose and his black suit and tie pressed to perfection. "My name is Eamon and these are my associates." He gestured to the other wolves.

Everyone had gathered around the stage as I followed X up the steps, Bane protesting as he drug him up behind him..

Growls from the wolves sounded out.. letting it be known how they feel..

"They're here now! Get on with it!" Gabriel snapped at the lawyer, Eamon, who stood at the podium, his eyes widening as Gabriel spoke.

"Right. So." Eamon's eyes drifted to Bane who stood proudly, still wearing dirty clothes he had been put in after the war. "This is the wolf who took out Alpha Blake. Correct?"

Bane stepped forth, head held high. "I am."

Grace snarled from below. "He needs to be punished! He sliced his throat from behind. Dad didnt have a chance to see it coming! To defend himself!" She screamed through angry tears as Nic held her back.

Other wolves shouted profanities and their agreement on the matter. It was becoming an uporar. My wolf bristled, ready to attack whoever i needed to of shìt hit the fan.

The Lawyer cleared his throat. "We have to do things by the book. Alpha Conrad has no second in command anymore. That leaves us lawyers in charge of these matters." He frowned at Bane.. his lip quivering slightly, flashing fang with how his wolf wanted out.

With Eamon's reaction, I suddenly realised why they wanted him here alive.

Laughing to myself, i shook my head, X raising a brow at me.

Bane took it upon himself to stand front and center.. his eyes scanning the crowd. "Im your new Alpha. My name is Bane. Alpha Bane. You will all come to respect me in due time. I will make sure this pack is changed for the better.. do whatever i can to make sure we thrive!" He held up his fist as if he were a Spartan, giving a speech.

The crowd went silent before laughter filled the air followed by snarls of angry faces, half shifted with teeth long. Ready and waiting.

Bane frowned in confusion, backing away.

Eamon cleared his throat, sending Bane a snarl after. "These documents im holding, state that Alpha Conrad.. has an heir." He smirked.

Everything went still.

Bane went pale as his eyes widened. "What?"

"What?" Grace looked up, bewildered. "Who?"

The lawyer smiled down at her. "You, Gracie. Its you. Your father went through the process of adopting you legally. Right before he died. I think maybe he knew something could or would happen. These papers state that you are his daughter and heir.. you have his last name legally now." He handed her the papers, leaning down as he smirked over at Bane.

Bane stilled as Grace read over the paperwork, her eyes flashing silver before snapping up to Bane.. glaring at him as a sick smile spread across her lips.

Grabiel chuckled darkly. "Oh my how this is going to be fun."

I stood just watching everything unfold.

The lawyer wasnt finished though. "As you are not male though, you can't be the Alpha. However, you are in charge of this pack as acting Luna until you complete the mating. Then your mate will become the Alpha and take over most duties while you can revert to normal Luna duties." He smiled down at her, glancing at Nic. "You father wanted you to forgive Nic, Grace. He wanted Nic to be the next Alpha and take his place. We talked about it many times."

Grace stood there gaping. "He said that?"

It was also a surprise to me. Conrad wasnt to keen on Nic after the trearment she recieved at crescent moon.. Nic impregnating Eden.

The lawyer nodded, pulling out an envelope. "He prepared things incase something happened during the war since he didn't know what would happen.. but he had an inkling." Eamons eyes drifted to Eden, her gazd falling away. "He Wrote this letter for you in case anything were to happen to him. He didnt want his killer running his pack." He handed the envelope down to Grace whose eyes were filling with more tears. Nic held her, kissing her temple as she tore the letter open.. reading it as a watery smile graced her features.

"As for you..." the lawyer turned to Bane. "You are merely a coward. A murderer and you have no title. No rights. You are here simply because we wanted to see the look on your face when you realised your life was over with." He chuckled and Bane was backing away as wolves growled, coming closer.

But he backed away and bumped into the wrong chest.

Gabriel.

Gabe grabbed the male up as he screeched and snarled. "Grace. Allow me to handle this wolf. I know he killed your father first but he killed my family too. I will make sure he suffers for a very very long time. Ill torture him for everything he has done. You are my niece and i want to be the one who punishes him for everything hes done to you.  To me. To everyone." Gabriel promised Grace as she weeped. Something inside her eyes changed and she straightened, suddenly becoming stronger as she wiped away the tears.

Thinking about it, she nodded. "He is all yours. But i want to assist in a few things before you take him away to moon stone." She sniffed, her wolfs eyes peering out.

"Me too." Eden stepped forward to my dismay with an evil glint in her eyes. One that gave my wolf a shiver of delight.

Gabriel nodded. "Agreed." Then he was jerking Bane up as he plead and cried out.. the crowd cheering as Gabriel hauled him away toward the front of the packhouse where the vehicles were parked.

Gabriel got two things today. An alpha title with land... and the killer of his mate and pup. His wolf would be content but i knew he would trade everything to have his mate back. This was only a small form of relief.

Everyone produced a smile on their face as the lawyer had Grace come up and sign a few documents.. one being the deed to the land.

But before she did, she paused.. her brown eyes locking on Nic as she bit her lower lip. "Nic?"

He perked up, stepping closer.

"Can you come up here for a moment?" Her voice was soft, a determined look in those doe eyes as she tucked a piece of darker blonde hair behind her ear.

Nova smiled brightly as Nic seemed taken aback but he was up those steps in no time flat, immediately by her side.

She turned to him, her cheeks turning pink. "Dad's letter.. he.. he said we belonged together and mates are sacred. You've been here for me through everything and .. and i know you love me.. and .. well.. " she seemed at a loss, "i love you too." Her voice was soft, her eyes flitted everywhere but on him.

"You do?" Nic rose a hand, cupping her cheek with that look in his eyes.. one that said he would do anything for her. He loved her. Without a doubt.  He had loved her even from the moment he met her.

Grace sighed with a nod. "I do. My dad wanted you to lead. And i can't do this alone.. so.. with my already bearing your mark.. i guess what im saying is.. i believe you when you say you won't leave. You are all i have left... im willing to take a risk and give this a chance." Tears filled her eyes.

Nics expression melted and he was wrapping her up in his arms immediately.. lips whispering into her ear but i could hear from where i stood.

"Mark me." He rasped.

Grace pulled back, glancing out at all the grinning wolves, her cheeks red in embarassment.

"Hey." He pulled her chin to face his direction, gazing at her softly. "Pretend its just me and you."

Marking was intimate.. it was usually done in doors... aka.. in the bedroom. But Grace was already marked. Once she marked him, their wolves would need to mark each other as well.

Her face went to the crook of his neck, breathing in his scent before her wolf made her appearance and teeth came out. Gently, she slid them in at the base of his neck where it meets the shoulder and thats the moment i had to turn away because it drove something inside of me.. making me desire to do the same thing to a certain blonde oracle.

I could feel my gums aching.. my teeth wanting to come out. Meeting Eden's watchful stare, she eyed me curiously but i turned from her as well, my back facing the crowd.

I could hear a low moan on Nic's behalf followed by a soft purr from Grace then the crowd of wolves were cheering.

The lawyer, eamon, a bushy old man, clapped his hands with a grin on his face once i turned back around..

"Well it looks like we have our new Alpha after all." Eamon bellowed.

Nic beamed down at Grace, wiping his blood from her lips before he kissed them. Grace then handed him the pen, looking up at him expectantly.

"You sign the deed too." She whispered.

Taking the pen out of her hand slowly, eyes raking over her every detail, he pulled her into him with his left hand, signing the deed with his right all the while smiling down at Grace.

Once they both had officiated each document, the lawyer stepped up, taking all the paperwork and handing the deed to Nic.

"Well, Blue Moon.. welcome your new Reigning pair. Alpha Nic and Luna Grace." The lawyer bellowed triumphantly.

All the wolves below, including Eden and Nova.. as well as Zaryn who had made his way back down beside her, threw their heads back, singing out their lament. One of sorrowful howls for their lost late Alpha that flowed into one of thanks to their new Alpha couple.

I myself remained quiet. My wolf quiet as well.. contemplating.

This day has made us think.. I normally don't like when that happens.

The reception had began moments later but the visiting wolves were readying themselves to leave, myself included.

I wanted to be away from the rejoicing and the mourning for now. I just wanted to be somehwere where there wouldn't be time for my brain to wonder. And that would be being stuck in an SUV for two hours with Eden.

That's where i wanted to be.

Nic and Grace decided to stay for the night to mingle with the pack, coming back to crescent moon tomorrow morning only so he could see his dad.. tell him the news and gather his belongings.

They were officially moving to Blue Moon.. the pack they would rule together.

I could already sense the power that had seeped into the both of them once their names had been put onto the deed. After the coronation ceremony- it would be official. But the moon doesnt need a ceremony to give her power to an Alpha couple.  A name on a deed is all it took.

Once Gabriel signed his name to the deed still in my pocket, he would also take this extra power that was pulsing through me. The power of being an Alpha to the second degree.

I itched to have him go ahead and do it earlier but he refused, saying he wanted to wait until he met with Moon Stone... tomorrow.

Id have to wait until tomorrow.

Having this extra strength and power until then could end up with Eden in my bed and that was something I wanted to happen when i knew she wouldnt regret it.. but she wouldn't be able to resist the power and i could hardly resist hers as it was..

Taking long strides, i walked toward where X, Nova, Eden, Grace and Nic all stood together.. Nova hugging her brother with a happy smile, tears in her eyes.

She too lost a friend today in Conrad..

Eden glanced my way with a curious gaze as i approached, her puffy eyes brightening once she saw my face. She had sensed my extra power all day in the suv on the way here.. it was hard for her, i could tell. She never cowered from me but she fought with herself.. her thighs clenched every now and then and i would smell her arousal, rolling the window down to wisk it away because it would set my wolf out.. i had to hide my teeth quite a few times because of it. And being the gentleman i am, i never let on that i could smell her. But we both knew i could.

"Maxim! I was about to go look for you." X smirked my way. "The love birds are going to stay here tonight so Nic can become familiar with everyone but its getting late. Sun is about to set. I was thinking we should head back. Where did Gabriel go?"

With a curt nod i let him know i agreed with heading back. "Gabriel went ahead back to your pack lands with the Alpha slayer." I chuckled. "Eager to carry out his first punishment i assume."

Grace growled low at that, her wolf liking what she heard.. wanting in on the action.

Nova clung to Grace as she hugged her, pulling away slightly to look at her. "You are going to be fine. We all are." Her green eyes landed on Eden as she smiled before she took in Grace once more. "Take care of my brother."

X cleared his throat as he tucked Nova under his arm, "Our brother." He and Nic shared a look. One of old friends..

"Ew it sounds so gross when you say it like that." Eden's features pinched into distaste which made everyone laugh.

"It is sort of messed up if you think about it." Nic mused. "My sister and my brother are mated.. and having a pup together. Oooh" he shivered, making gagging sounds as Nova rolled her eyes and smacked him in the back of the head.

"We are not even related by blood!" She glared.

"Nope" Nic smirked.  "But you both share blood with me. Im the common link.. and im gonna be an uncle twice to the second power!" He laughed.

Grace's eyes widened. "That means im going to be an aunt!" Her grin spread as she and Nova smiled at one another.

Shaking my head with a slight smile, i leaned down.  "You ready?" I whispered against Eden's ear making her go stiff with a shiver rolling down her spine. Her wide bright green eyes met mine as she looked up with a nod.

"Yeah."

I nodded, eyeing her. She seemed better now but i knew there would be more tears eventually. This was just a pause.. a moment where she didnt have to focus on the sadness of it all.

"X im going to head out."

He responded with a nod. "Alright. We wont be too far behind you. Meet you back at the pack lands." We shook hands like wolves do, grasping the forearm tightly.

Zaryn has changed a lot since Nova came back. There's less agression but more dominance with his mate being pregnant.. and theres now this light in his eyes. He isnt so closed off.. like he could tear out the throats of those that glanced his way. No. He seemed genuinely happy.. and so did Nova. She no longer carried that dead look in her eyes.. her wolf was feral when she came to live in my pack..

Now they were both just happy..

More skin like instead of wolf..

Maybe that's why Blakes pack was always so human like. He was happy. Happy mated alpha pairs arent as reliant on the wolf. Where as conrad and I.. we were single leaders. Our packs were more wolf because we were more wolf..

But i knew X was very adamant about his pack relying on their wolf more. It was just how he acted with his mate.. seeing anyone with their mate made me curious. I forgot what it was like all those years ago..

Bidding my farewells, my legs carried me to the front of the pack house where my SUV sat parked at the first of the long line. Most members had left after the ceremony.. some stayed to see the show.

Getting in the drivers side, i closed the door and waited in silence as the sun had finally been released from the greying clouds overhead.. sinking into the sky .. sending out bursts of color through the deep blue.

The door to the passengers side opened after a few moments and Eden slid in.. her eyes catching mine for a moment before smiling at me slightly.

"Ready?" I started up the ignition, too mesmerised with her movements of buckling her seat belt, golden curls swaying.

She nodded, folding her hands in her lap as she looked over at me. "Yeah. Im exhausted." A sigh slipped past her faded red lips.

I bit my lip, wanting to ask her the question that had played in my mind since the lawyer had looked at her meaningfully ealier. "You knew that Conrad would die didnt you?"

Her head shot up as she stared at me with disbelief. "What?"

My forehead creased.  "I saw the way eamon looked at you. You had a vision didnt you."

She let out a ragged breath, clutching her heart. "I... the moon showed me a vision of Blue Moon giving the deed to a faceless wolf with the word murderer written across his faceless skin.. i.. i had told Conrad and Eamon about it." She met my gaze. "But no one else. Not even Grace or Nova.  I didnt want them to know and Conrad made me swear not to tell..." her eyes watered. "Please dont say anything.  He didnt want anyone to worry. I was worried too.. but.. he assured me that whatever happens was what the moon had wanted which is why he went ahead and adopted Grace. I never spoke up about her being adopted sooner because Eamon had everything worked out. He contacted me after the war.. told me he had it worked out and i should keep my lips closed. He wanted to make a scene of it.. for the murderers sake. And because he knew Grace wouldn't mark Nic unless she was put on the spot." A tear fell from her eye, down her cheek. "I knew Conrad might die. I knew it was a big possibility.. but ... i guess i didnt believe it even though i should have because well.. shes the moon. She knows what will happen. I guess.. i don't know. I guess i felt like it would happen .. but i just dismissed it.. i didnt want to believe it..." she whispered through her tears.

I couldn't believe my ears but I suspected as much from the look Eamon gave her. As if they shared a secret..

"My lips are sealed Eden."

She knew it would come to this. She had warned him.. and he knew what would happen.

"Eamon gave me this." She sniffled, pulling out a pale blue letter sized envelope. "Its from Conrad." Her hands shook, as if she were afraid to open it.  I noticed the envelope was still sealed.. her name scrawled across the top in bold print.

"Arent you going to open it?" I rose a brow, my tone soft as she looked up at me with scared eyes.

"I.. i guess i should." She bit her lip nervously.

"Just read it Eden. You don't need to share the contents with me. Its not adressed to me. Its yours. Read it." I offered softly, letting her know she didnt have to share with me. That i wouldn't ask her.

Eden smiled slightly, pulling out another envelope from her purse.. holding it out to me. "This one is for you." She whispered, her voice wavering.. teetering on the edge of emotions as we sat in my suv, still in the driveway.. the motor idling as I stared at the white envelope in her hand.

My name.. printed across it in the same lettering.

Taking it from her slowly, i stared into her eyes with question. She only shrugged.  "I dont know what is says."

Sighing, i closed my eyes, leaning back in my seat. "We open them together." My deep voice sounded.

"Okay." Hers whispered.

We set to work, each of us opening our envelope from Conrad. The knowlege that he knew he would die was heavy on my shoulders.  That Eden knew he would die.. only she was in denial over it. That day of the picnic, they had been whispering back and forth.. her smiling at him with warmth but now that i recall it, there was a nervousness in her eyes as well as his..

Like they knew this was going to happen...

Unfolding the paper, my eyes drifted to the words it held as Eden read her own letter..

Dearest Cousin,

If you are reading this, my time on this earth has expired. Ive gone to meet the moon.

You are probably with Eden or at least you've been there for her through my demise.. consoling her. And i approve. I want her to have someone.  Someone to help her get past my death..

She is an amazing female as you very well know.  She shouldn't be alone. Not a female like that. She may love her gift but i see it in her eyes.. i see how she wants to be loved. I would never tell her this.. but yes its true i have love for her.. but we were both lonely. I think our relationship began out of lonliness. That's how our love for one another grew.. but it isnt a love like the one that we are supposed to have. Well, that i was supposed to have. She will never know that kind of love. The love of a mate.

I'm thankful i was able to spend my last days with a female like her. Shes a beautiful strong female. Someone to admire.. someone to cherish.

And if im being honest?

I hope you will cherish her.

Its no secret the way you feel about her. The power isnt the only thing you are attracted to and i know that. I cant help to feel like i took her from you but she needed someone, which was me. Because i think i needed her too.

Please take care of her. Take her mind away from my death. Be there for her.

Love her.

I know despite your cruel uncaring mask, that you have a heart bigger than anyone. So please. Give it to her.. love her and make her yours.. she deserves to be happy and so do you. You're closer to her age.. i had felt guilty for being with her .. as young as she is.

What im saying, Cousin.. is please dont waste time.  Make her yours and take care of her. Keep her tears from falling and make her smile. Because i know you love her. Or at least your wolf does.

I'll miss you Cousin.

Forever,

Conrad

My eyes widened as i re read the letter again.

He knew.

The sonofabìťch knew i always felt something for her!

And here he was.. asking me to love her. To take care of her and cherish her..

More sniffling cut off my thoughts and i turned to see Eden's eyes blurred, her fist over her mouth as she clutched the paper before folding it back.

I folded mine up, placing it in my pocket.. staring out at the wooded area ahead of us. Conrad's words playing in my mind.. the fact he knew he would die.. the fact he felt guilty being with Eden.. that he admitted it wasn't true love.. that yes he loved her but they were lonely.

The fact he gave me the green light to care for her.

I cleared my throat, putting the suv in gear before driving away without a word.. she didnt need to tell me anything. But i was contemplating on what to say to her.

After driving down the dirt path in silence, we'd finally made it to the main road, turning onto the pavement.  Eden leaned against the door.. i could feel her eyes watching me. Tension thick in the air.

"Pretty amazing what happened with Grace today wasnt it?" She spoke softly.

Frowning deeper, i nodded. "Yeah. Didnt see that coming until the end." They really respected Grace at Blue Moon. It was interesting have seen the pack hide the fact that Bane meant nothing to them.

"No." She huffed. "Im talking about her marking him.. she'll be fully mated tonight.  Its kinda... special." She sighed dreamily which had me raising a brow, looking away from the road and over at her smiling face.

"Special?"

"Nevermind." She rolled her eyes. "Youre a male. Nothing is special to you males." It was more grumbled as her arms crossed overher chest, her large breasts pressing together.

Then it registered to me.

Eden was a romantic.

Despite all the cringe faces she makes when she sees someone sharing an intimate moment, shes truly is a romantic. Such a hypocrite sometimes but im starting to think it's all felames...

It is all females.

"Thank you." I rasped after a long moment of silence.

She turned with a confused brow. "For what?"

"For being there.. using your power.. it helped me today." I rested my hand on her thigh just above her knee and felt her body shiver, her skin goosing at my touch. Desire swirled through the air and it was from her.

"It was nothing." She faintly whispered.

A moment passed with my hand still on her thigh, stroking the outter skin with my thumb and i could smell her arousal thick.. my wolf reveled in it but i was driving -- i wouldn't react. But it was enjoyable... just being able to smell her. Almost like my face was between her -

"I can sense all that extra power you hold." Her voice came out quakey and quivering.. her hands fidgeting.

Sparing a glance at her, "i know. Its hard not to. But you're the only female besides Nova who doesn't cower from it. You look me in the eyes and my wolf likes it."

Her eyes met mine and i kept glancing from the road and back to her.

"Eden.. I'm going to tell you what my letter said."

He began to refuse but i cut her off with a growl.

"Conrad gave me the green light to be there for you. In every way you need me. Said he knew that I've always felt something for you which is no lie.  Said he felt like he had stolen you away from me. His last request is that im there for you and we both know that i want to be. I've never told a female that before because ive never felt that way about one .. but you." I was quick with my words and she was silent.

I looked over to see her lips were parted in surprise and her big green eyes somehow larger. "He said that?"

I nodded.

She blew out a breath, "he said the same thing to me..."

I was momentarily stunned. Even from the grave, Conrad was playing matchmaker. First with his daughter.. now with Eden and I. We had no more reason to feel guilty.

I let silence linger for a moment before continuing with what i wanted to say. It was hard controling myself. My fingers itched to cover more of her skin..

"Im going to warn you now. When we get out of this car.. i want you to stay away from me. Because i might do something you'll regret tomorrow and when we do that, i dont want you to regret it. I know you're still mourning. In my eyes, i saw you first. You were mine first. My wolf became jealous today ill admit that. But i understood it." She widened her eyes at me and i had to force my hand to stay in one spot, not drifting upward.

"Y-you what?" She asked in disbelief.

"Your power is delicious.. i can always smell it. Our wolves have imprinted on each other.. as im sure you have noticed. But its not just your power.. its you." My vision trained on the road ahead as the sun drifted below the horizon. "With Conrads blessing, theres nothing holding me back and i know you are still in pain. But while i have thix extra power.. until Gabriel claims the title to the land.. its like my need for you is intensified by a million. I know you can sense it because i smell you in the air." I took a deep breath for affect and she shivered.

Glancing over at her, her pupils were dialated and her cheeks a rosy tint. She was reacting to the testosterone that filled the air around me. She would be weak to resist it.

"So if you dont want me to chase after you.. then i suggest that you lock yourself up somewhere safe. Lock yourself away from me." I rasped, swallowing down the pheremones she gave off, cracking the window to get rid of some of it.

She was silent for a moment but i felt her eyes... burning the side of my face and down my body.

"What if i want to lock myself in the Alpha's quarters back at Crescent." Her voice was sèxual and my brows rose.

She knew that's where i was staying.

I turned toward her, looking for any signs that she was unsure of her words and found none. Her chest heaved with the deep breaths she took.. lips full and eyes lazily regarding me.

I swallowed, "Then by all means.. stay with me tonight." My tone husky. Feeling my desire harden my body for her..

She licked her lips. "And then? Afterwards?"

My eyes left the road to stare into hers intently. "Come back to dark moon with me Eden. Its what I want. It's what he wanted. Its what the moon wants.." i trailed off.

She took a ragged breath, putting her hand on top of mine which still rested on her thigh.

I got my answer.

She would be mine.

One day..

But tonight she would be mine for sure.

○●○●○●•

THIS IS THE ADDITIONAL PART!!!!!

THIS IS ALSO THE EDITED VERSION. WATCH FOR THE BOLD PRINT WHERE I TELL YOU TO SWITCH TO THE OTHER BOOK IF YOU WANT TO READ THE EXPLICIT VERSION!!! (u must b a follower)

The moment i pulled onto Crescent Moon territory, I could feel the tension rising.. Eden was alert, her eyes flickering back and forth to me. Her power flooded through as she was unable to control it. It seeped through her pores like a mist, shrouding me in it - so thick i had to breath out of my mouth.

I felt my pupils blow out, my wolf wanting her in a way he has never wanted anyone before.. that ive never wanted anyone before.

I cracked the window to let some of the pheremones air out of the suv. It was becoming hard to control my wolf and I've always had control. But the tingling sensations-- her stare burning my flesh as she watched me with hooded green eyes filled with lust..

It was intoxicating.

Ive never even kissed her yet I want her so badly.

The night we were caught by Nic, half naked.. well that night i hadn't even kissed her yet. I had started on her jaw and neck, our clothes coming off in a hurry. The next thing i knew, Nic was barging in and I was leaving angry and unsatisfied.  Craving the female oracle.

The aura she possess is that of an Alpha. The way it tastes.. dominance and power.. its why i confused her to be an Alpha blood the moment i met her. Then i was intrigued to learn she was a seer. An oracle. They are always so old .. but Eden is a pyt for sure. Only .. her dominance and power are held within.. its mental. Not physical. From what I saw during battle, she was untrained in fighting..

Inhaling sharply, i glanced over at Eden who was still staring at me, Her tongue, licking full lips.. thighs clenching.

It was almost as if she were in heat but she wasn't.

The reaction she was currently having was because of me. And because of my power. Being an Alpha of two lands - because Gabriel has yet to sign his name to the deed which meant I was still the Alpha - it gave me more power and strength.  .

It attracted her to me just as her power attracts me to her.

I would have to be very careful not to break her tonight.. I'm too strong at the moment.

"Maybe we should go to my cabin..." Eden's raspy voice caught me off guard.

"Why." My brows furrowed, my pants becoming too restricting.

She was slowly licking her bottom lip, biting it between teeth that had elongated.

"Because there are too many wolves living there at the pack house. My place is next to deserted cabins...." she trailed off, her fingers reaching out to touch my jean clad thigh.. my eyes closing slightly upon contact.

"Good idea." I sucked in a breath, pressing down on the accelerator as we flew down the dirt road towards the pack house.

The sun had set long ago, leaving the sky a deep midnight blue with a bright shining silvery-white moon and stars twinkling above. The wind rushing through the window was cool but not cold. The smell of smoke from the bonfire that had taken place earlier still lingered in the air.. it was a perfect night.

A pang of guilt for wanting Eden to myself on the day of the funeral for her boyfriend plagued me slightly but he stated in our letters that he wanted us to be together. It wasnt written exactly like that but it was implied.

We had his blessing. He knew how high Eden's guilt and her libido ran..

He knew she needed someone too.

So he gave her the gift of letting her know that - through the letter.

Tonight wouldn't be a regret.

It would be the start of something good..

Her hand on my thigh tremored and claws were extending, pressing into the fabric. My brows rose as i drove past the pack house and toward her cabin. Only a little more and we were there. Home free.

"Sorry." A pained look pinched her features and she took her hand away.. a low growl coming from her chest.

A growl like that, deep and vibrating.. it meant only one thing.

Her wolf needed me. In more ways than one could assume.

I parked the suv quickly and turned off the ignition. Leaving the keys, I rushed out of the vehicle, striding quickly to her side and opened her door to find her eyeing me hungrily.. her brows still pinched in pain.

When a female with power like Eden gets.. excited.. it becomes painful if they dont get what they want. And right now she wanted me. All females of high status with power are this way. Lunas.. Alpha bloods.. Seers.. even healers.

I would bet some of the males of Eden's past were of alpha blood.. or beta. She's attracted to their power as they are hers. Then it turns to pain when she wants that physical connection.. so she has to have it despite the guilt she knows will come the next day. I wont be her guilt.

My eyes flashed and the beast in me growled hungrily as the scent of her arousal hit my nose. In a flash, my hands were grabbing her up, throwing her over my shoulder as she squealed in protest but soon she was feeling her way under my shirt as I carried her to the front door of her cabin, body hanging over my shoulder, my arm around her thighs to keep her from falling.

Trees to the left shook, catching my attention and i haulted- my wolf on alert for danger. No one would get to our female. She was ours.. even though she was not our gift from the moon .. the wolf had imprinted her scent, claiming her subconsciously.

She was ours.

I lowered Eden slowly, pushing her behind me. She clung to me.. nails digging into my shirt- unaware of why i had put her down. All she noticed was how stiff i became which made her quiet.. watchful.

A male in skin form burst from the trees and a warning growl erupted from my chest.

We didnt like this male close to Eden's cabin.. waiting in the trees like a stalker.

The male sniffed the air, curious eyes glowing with his wolf.. peeking out to take a look.

"I smell her." He said in a husky voice. This male, just under six feet tall. He was a crescent moon pack member but it wouldn't save his life.

I growled louder, shaking the window panes as Eden clung to my back,  realising the threat. My beast was ready to protect what he viewed as his.

"Turn back around unless you want to lose your life." My words were garbled because the wolf was coming forth.. Eden's scent called to him.. begged him to come out.

The male cocked his head to the side, peering over my shoulder at her.

"She smells good... I could smell her through the forrest." He came closer.. unable to resist the temptation... ignoring the fact he would lose his life. Her scent was that intoxicating and she was flooding her full power out in the open.. no telling how far it would reach.

My frown deepened.  She wasnt in heat.. but she had let her walls down, expelling her power without realising it.

All of it.

I turned my head so i could see her out of my peripheral.  "Eden, try to put your walls back up. You're attracting unwanted attention." It came out of clenched jaws, snapping.

She gasped, immediately sealing the walls which somehow i felt.. her power sucking back out if the atmosphere and into her body.

Seers do that..

They have so much moon gifted power that has to be sealed up but in instances where they are extremely enamoured or angry.. it comes out. The more that spills out.. the more males will notice and males love a powerful female. They see strong pups as a result of impregnating a poweful female.. too caught up in the tides to remember they have a mate out there somehwere.

The male came closer and my wolf couldnt handle it. "Turn away. Now!" I growled, hunchimg forward, ready to attack.

He shook his head with a smirk. "Its too late. I know how her power tastes." He came closer with a taunting smile.

"Fúçk this. Eden close your eyes." I snapped, lunging forward with a clawed hand and swiping across the males neck. Eden gasped, backing away towards the front door to her cabin.

The males eyes widened, hands clutching his neck which was currently spraying blood.. then his body fell. Limp.

Thankfully no blood got on me... that would be a tragedy.

I felt satisfied.. the wolf felt satisfied. We had taken out the threat to our female. That satisfaction only increased the lust pulsating inside me.

Turning towards her, she had this look in her big green eyes.. one of fright but also carnal cravings. The action scared her but made her all the more attracted to me.. conflicting emotions.

With a low growl in my throat, my eyes locked on her form, shaking with need-  i reached her in two long strides.. looming over her as she stared up into my eyes. She was like a scared rabbit.. but that scared rabbit was licking her lips.. pressing her chest out.. posturing towards me.

Her mind and body were on opposite spectrums.

I could fix that.

Reaching around her, i grasped her waist, throwing her back over my shoulder and let myself inside her cabin, locking it behind me as she writhed against my body.

Setting her down on her feet slowly so I felt every curve of her body, i held her to me.. locking gazes with her eyes which were brimmimg with desire.

A/N: begin reading in the private chapters book now. The chapter picks up right here, all the way to the end.

This is the edited version.

"You're beautiful. And i dont tell women that. But you should know that you are." My minty breath touched her red lips and she was closing her eyes in pleasure.. my hands kneading her a$$.

The moment her lips met mine, i was in a trance. The feeling of a kiss so good was so foreign to me.. i could feel vibrarions and electric currents through her.

Our kiss turned into a hurrican of wild feral attraction, clothes ripping.. mouths tasting.. hands touching.

The moment i became one with her body was phenomenal.  It felt so real..

The feeling of a pseudo mate... only shes real. She really has imprinted with my wolf. And me.

Loving the sight of her, i couldn't keep my hands still anywhere for long.

The moment we rode that wave, crashing to the shore..the most sincere bliss i have ever felt;  her clawed fingers dug into my hair,

jerking my head to the side.. mouth diving down to kiss my neck before her wolf growled out..

"Mine" she said.

Then she lodged her teeth inside my neck ..

Marking me as her mate..

Fusing my soul to hers on a whim.

My wolf growled in delight before claws held her hips in place.  I growled low, almost like a purr..

Her teeth still were still in my neck, and for a moment, i saw everything in her mind as she saw mine.

Our thoughts floated through the others..

Bright warm light surrounded us.. the smell of the moon so strong.  It was so blissful.. i felt at ease..

My wolf, content.

Eden removed her teeth from my neck and it was over.

She had marked me as hers. Without my consent.

A female.. marking an Alpha first without his say so. It was unheard of..

She jerked upright, eyes going wide as they faded back to green.. my blood on her mouth as a hand covered it. She was shocked.. apalled at what her wolf had done. Guilt in those green eyes.

"Oh my goddess.. Maxim.." she whispered in horror.

I was too stunned to do much but stare at her with my mouth open.. feeling like i was floating on air..

"Im so sorry." Her whispered words broke as did her voice.

Tears formed in her eyes and i snapped out of my daze, i was too stunned that her wolf had made her do that.. i knew she could feel that shock.. my emotions were tangible for her now.

I reached for her, forcing her to lay on my chest. "Shhh.. its okay.."

somehow i didn't feel upset.

"No Maxim! Its not! My wolf just marked you!" She cried into me.

I rolled us over so i was on top once more, taking her hands away from her face to see her eyes.

Gazing down at her with an intensity, "Don't be upset. The moon already willed it. Conrad gave us his blessing. Our wolves want it. Yours really wanted it. Yes im a little upset that you marked me first but we both knew it was inevitable." My deep voice soothed her.. letting her know i wasnt angry.

I should be.. but i wasnt.

Because it was her.

"Bend your neck for me. We are going to complete this." I eyed her with a surety.. using a no nonsense tone with her. If she was going to mark me.. i would mark her too. I wont be looked down on by others.  And i wanted to feel the bond that she felt. It wasnt fair.

She panicked. "M-my gift wait. Maxim no .. i i cant just-!"

"Eden. Its already done. If you lose your gift from this then its already happened. Bend. Your. Neck." My wolf came to the surface once more.. the words were ordering her with a possiveness. We needed to make her ours now.

With wide eyes, she did as she was told.. moving her head so that i had access to her long slender neck.

Without even giving a second thought, the wolf pushed me.. sinking our teeth inside her flesh.. digging deep as we marked her as our mate.

That blinding light entrapped us once more and i could feel her. Not just eden, but the moon herself. I could feel the moon.

Edens thoughts roiled into my mind like a boiling pot of water.. burning into my brain.

She was worried. Afraid. But most of all she was satisfied..

I felt our souls joining.. but it wouldnt be complete until the wolves did their part.

Removing my teeth, i licked at the mark on her. She looked beautiful.. and she was mine.

"We're halfway mated now Eden. I know you didn't mean to mark me but your wolf did." I found her eyes. "I hope you know why i had to do the same."

She nodded softly.

"But i wanted to. We see you as ours.  I've wanted you since i met you. Trust me that ill be good to you, my Luna." My tone deep yet soft, I nuzzled her nose with mine and she sighed softly before letting out a surprised squeal.  "Luna!... i forgot about that!."

I closed my eyes, rolling us to the side so we faces each other and pulled her body so that she was flush against mine, legs tangled with my own. The electric shocks were strong now that we were joined.

Mated.

I have a mate. She has a mate.

Kissing her unsuspecting lips, her tears wetting my cheeks, i found my heart melting from the block of ice its been encased in for the past decade. I could feel her in my mind poking around... already worming her way to my body.

"Eden.." i whispered, pulling away slightly with my arm wrapped around her. She peered up at me through her lashes and i moved my hand to push a few stray locks of hair behind her ear. "I know its sudden.. but we are following the moon's path. Just think about it that way. Your wolf obviously wanted to be my mate.. do you?"

She bit her lip, looking in my crystal eyes. First time I've ever had a female in my bed this long after sex. I usually kicked them out, softening the sting with sweet words. But this female.. i could wake up like this every day.

Her gaze shifted around. "I.. I.. " a hard sigh released from her lips. "I do.. but its complicated.. i didn't want to lose my gift.." her brows creased.

"How do you feel about me." I stroked her cheek with my finger.

She deadpanned me. "I think you already know how i feel."

A small smirk played at the corner of my mouth. "I do. But.. i want you to know that just because we are marked now... which by the way im more than happy about.. that you dont have to just up and say you love me. We can take our time. I can feel that running through your mind.. how it scares you. Theres no pressure. We can take it slow."

She met my gaze with a sureness. "No. Fùçk that. If im losing my gift over this then im going all in. If i get to be happy with someone i have feelings for then I dont want to waste any time. Yes im nervous but ive never felt more sure.  Yes.. im upset about my sight being gone but if theres one thing ive learned Maxim, its that life is short and im getting what ive always wanted. You're right.  This is the moons will. I know you wont leave me in the morning. I know you wont use me.."

"I would never."

She nodded. "Then its safe to say.. I.. I do have strong feelings for you.. even though i put my late boyfriend in the ground today and it may be wrong,  ive felt something for you since day one and its so intense. Whatever it is, its strong. It makes me weak in the knees and brings my wolf out which no one has done. Ive never been affected this way before but i am realising that ive also never been in love before, when i thought i was."

Hope swelled inside my chest. "What are you saying? Are you saying you want to go at this full force? No restraints?"

Eden nodded, biting that swollen lip, eyeing me shyly.  "I guess i do...'

A grin spread across my lips. I felt.. happy. Something foreign to me.

"But-" her brow lifted. "You cant try to change me."

Shaking my head, "i like you just the way you are."

Eden nodded, "and i dont know how great of a Luna ill be.."

My cheeks hurt from smiling.  "you'll be a great Luna. I'll teach you."

She softened her expression and i pulled her to me.. hugging her. Feeling the electric sensations pulse between my skin to hers as we lay there in the after glow of marking each other.

So this is what its like.

Having a mate..

It feels..

Nice.

Words couldn't even describe what i was feeling right now.

I felt a little less angry at the world.. and a whole lot happier with the female tucked into my chest. And very very possesive.

A ring. I need to ask her to marry me now..

Everything happened so fast.. from putting conrad in the ground to screwing her brains out and now i have her as a mate..

The moon works in mysterious ways and im sure wolves are going to talk but i dont care right now. This is the way its supposed to be.

Eden is who im meant to be with.

Dun dun dun!!!!

HOPE YOU ENJOYED THE ADD IN!!!!!!!!!

Whoa daddy! Maxim you cad you!!!!!

So Conrad knew he was going to die.. and eden did too only she was in denial bc he was the first to show her love bit even he admited that their love came from lonliness. He wants her to be cherished and knew maxim was the one for the job

Imprinting.. not something regular mates do. Its something wolves with dead mates do. Either their mste died before they met or they died while they were mated...

Maxim never mated with his mate. They had never even did the deed. Eden has no mate.  But somehow their wolves imprinted.. which means their wolves like each other and find themselves to be suitable companions and mates.  Their wolves want to mate. It doesn't happen often bit being imprinted... when they DO mate . It will feel like a true mate bond.. only less.

Ive mentioned that other wolves who lost mates, find other wolves to mate with and have pups to pass on their names... but most done imprint.  Their wolves simply tolerate the skin sides accepting that other wolf to be their mate but imprinting is on a deeper level. For example Reynold mated (mated means they marked each other in wolf and skin side and did the deed all together.) He mated with Melynn but she didnt want it. They simply just became mates through force on his part. No imprinting. She bared one female but no other pups as the moons punishment to Reynold.

But why did melynn suffer? Well her daughter became her life. Some of these good wolves suffer like Jack.. for the greater good. The moon to me is like God in real life. Bad things happen to good people but its all for a reason.. sometimes for the greater good.

What do you guys think about Bane and his unhappy ending!?!?@

Amd omg nic and grace are finally getting there!!! They are finally mated!!!! Almost. Im sure this night, they will most definitely be.

Ill be writing a scene in the private chapter book for them.. and one for maxim and eden so be on the lookout for my update on my page telling you its up. Make sure you have my restricted book in your library to see the updated chaps!!!!

And tell me what you think!!!!

This chap was more ab maxim but we go back to nova and zaryn next. The last chapter is coming guys....

Two more left till the end.

Then im adding epilogued of years down the road.

Next chap is them summing everything up..

And then comes the wedding.

And a honeymoon scene.

And then that wraps it up.

Its been a long ride...

And thank you all for bearing with my long drawn out story and wanting to beat these characters up bc trust me i did too...

We see a lot of changes in the end...

And i think the epilogues will be your favorite.....

Cover contest is coming so make sure you are on my Facebook.  Add me.

H.N. Von Ward.

All the covers ive recieved will be posted where you can vote!!!!!!!!

Ill post a whole chap about it.