Alexia's POV:
Two weeks Later-
Today was the day. The day I married the love of my life. I was in our suite in the Packhouse getting dressed, while Beck was in our room at our house doing the same thing. I sat tall in a chair in the bathroom, Bella behind me curling my hair into soft waves. She said just curling my hair and letting it stay loose down my back would be very pretty. Lauren was on standby to do my make up. Emma was in the room getting her sapphire colored dress on. Lauren was in gold and Bella in silver, long strapless gowns. Though they were very simple, they looked gorgeous and flattered each girl's figure. I knotted my fingers in my lap. I was undeniably nervous. I kept flicking my eyes to the clock.
I had over an hour before Uncle John came to get me and lead me through the forest, but i wasn't even in my dress yet and the girls had to leave in half an hour. I sat in my robe, biting my lip, twisting my engagement ring around my finger (which I almost forgot on the window sill of the beach house), and trying to focus on Bella's nimble fingers working through my hair.
The past two weeks had been chaotic. The day after we had gotten home, the crew came over, Beck's parents included.
Flashback
I had been up in the room when Beck went to answer the door. I heard their noisy stampede, and i couldn't help but begin to panic. I tried to calm my breathing and relax myself, but because of the mark, Beck was immediately on alert. i could here him starting up the stairs and turned toward the windows. I heard the door open softly.
"Lexi? You okay?" He asked softly, coming up to me.
I nodded and turned to bury my face in his warm chest. "I just got a little nervous."
He sighed. "Do you want me to tell them that you aren't ready?" I shook my head.
"Im okay now," i said and pulled away from him. "Let's go." He kissed my forehead and took my hand.
"You can do it, princess." I nodded and we started to walk to the stairs. I could hear my ow pulse racing and it became difficult to breathe. They love you Lexi.... When we got to the bottom, he turned me around to go into the living room.
"They're coming!" I heard Emma's excited voice. We stopped in the door way and i couldn't help but hide behind Beck. He squeezed my hand reassuringly.
"Hey guys," he said and murmured to me over his shoulder. "Baby it's okay." I took a deep breath and stepped out from behind him. i slowly lifted my gaze from the floor to the happy eyes of my family. I subconsciously moved closer to Beck's side.
"Hi Lexi," Will said gently, offering me a small smile.
"Hi guys," I said softly sending him my own smile back. They all just kind of looked at me. I looked up at Beck and he shrugged. "I have to say i kind of expected at least one hug when i came home." I said and Ivan cracked a smile.
"There she is," he said laughing, and stood up and opened his arms to give me a big hug. His strong arms wrapped around me and he rubbed my back. "Lexi, we missed you sweet girl." He smiled and kissed my forehead. "You are one brave girl, my dear." he said and pulled me in for another hug. "Sia get over here!"
Sierra came over to us teary-eyed, but still smiling. Suddenly, she held me to her in such a tight and warm embrace. Happy tears filled my eyes. She pulled away and cupped my face in her hands. We both chuckled and tried to wipe away our tears. "Are you alright honey?"
"Yeah I'm okay," i whispered. She clutched me closer to her again.
"Oh Goddess, thank you Goddess, for bringing her back to us." She held me by the arms and looked me in the eye. "We are all here for you. Anything you need. We are here." I nodded and she stepped back into Ivan's arms.
I looked back at Beck and he nodded to me encouragingly.
"Emma. Lauren. Bella." They looked up at me. "I missed you so much." They laughed and jumped up to each give me a hug. Emma held me close for a little while longer than the others and rocked us from side to side.
"I knew you would make it through it," she whispered. "You're so strong. I love you Lexi."
"I love you too Emma," I sniffled.
"Boys," I said looking around at the six boys who were on the edges of their seats. I opened my arms. "Come on. I need it." They all grinned and stood up to give me a group hug.
"Alright boys off my mate," Beck said looking grumpy from off to the side.
"Beck relax she's been marked and mated. You're in the clear." Hunter said laughing, and i blushed. He cleared his throat.
"We actually have some other news too." He said and all heads snapped to look at him. I made my way over to him and wrapped my arms around his waist.
"Oh my god she's pregnant," Bella gasped.
"Well we don't know about that yet," Beck chuckled and i slapped his chest. "But," He smiled down at me. I bit my lip and held up my left hand. "We are getting married," he finished.
And that was when all hell broke loose.
All the ladies in the room started squealing and screaming and jumping up and down, while all the guys cheered and clapped Beck on the back.
"Show me the ring. Show me the ring. Show me the ring." Lauren said and i held out my hand to her. The girls all gathered around. "Oh my god, it's stunning. Hunter take notes."
"Beck good choice, your grandmother would be proud." His mother said and gave him a hug.
"Thank you momma," he said and kissed her cheek.
"Oh my god there's so much to plan." Emma said.
"Well isn't it supposed to be on the 17th, the day of the Luna ceremony?" Sia asked.
"Well you see, we managed to plan most of it yesterday." I said quietly.
"You what?" Lauren said astonished.
"We kind of knew what we wanted and it was nothing extravagant so it wasn't that hard to pull it together." I said.
"Wait wait wait let's go in the kitchen and you can explain everything to us," Sia said and pushed Emma in the direction of the kitchen.
"I think there's a game on," Carter said and propped his feet up on the coffee table and grabbed the remote.
"Yeah sure, little brother, make yourself right at home." Beck said. The boys piled on to the couches and Beck lit the fireplace before coming back to me. "And you'll be okay explaining the wedding?" I nodded.
"I think i can handle them for a while. Go on. You need a break. Chill out with the guys." I said and gave him a kiss.
"And the lovebirds are baack," Hunter sang from the loveseat.
"Shut up Hunter," he growled. And gave me one more kiss. I pulled away and headed to the kitchen.
The girls were already seated at the marble bar.
"Thank you guys for setting up the house for us. Well not exactly a house more like a castle." I said and looked around at the gorgeous white wood, marble and stainless steel finery around me.
"It was our pleasure. When the storm lets up we can finish decorating and painting the rest of the house. We figured for your room we could stick to white until you planned a color scheme." Bella said, and i reached for her hand across the counter, which she took.
"you guys are staying for dinner, yes?" I asked and turned to the fridge. They had even been so kind as to stock up on food for us. Every food imaginable.
"If it's no trouble, my dear." Sia said.
"Well if you dont mind that we'll be eating on the couches I'm sure i can fix something up." I replied wiping my hands on my jeans.
"Oooh after we go over the wedding plans, we can start designing the rest of the house." Emma said.
"Perfect," I grinned and started to pull a block of cheese out of the fridge to cut up and some crackers. "Now where in my gorgeous kitchen would i find a cutting board?"
Lauren laughed, "The lower cabinet to the left of the sink."
"There we go," I said and pulled it out and grabbed a knife out of the butcher's block. I started to slice the cheese and the crackers, and then arranged them onto two plates. "Hold that thought," I brought one to the living room and set it on the coffee table.
I walked around the back of the couch but Beck caught my wrist. He tugged my wrist so my torso lay across the back of the couch and my head was right next to his. "Thank you princess." and kissed my nose.
"Thanks Lexi,"
"Thank you,"
"Thank you my dear,"
"How are the Seahawks doing?" I asked taking a glance at the screen.
"Their defense is sucking wind today." Justin groaned.
"We're down by thirteen in the third quarter." Ryan said looking back up at me.
"Well keep me posted. Does anyone need a drink while I'm up?"
"Lexi? Could i please have a water?" Damian asked.
"Absolutely, anyone else? Ivan?"
"I'm all set honey, thank you though."
"You need anything baby?" I asked running a hand through Beck's locks.
"No I'm good for now sweetheart." he said and smiled up at me.
I nodded and went back to the kitchen to fill a glass of water for Damian and brought it back to him. Then i went upstairs and grabbed the laptop and the notebook we had used to write down the details of the wedding.
I handed everything to the girls. "Here is what we have so far." They took a minute to huddle together behind Sia and read through our notes, and look up our details online.
"Can we make your registry?" Bella asked.
"I mean sure. I dont really know what to put on it."
"A good china set." Sia said, "And kitchen appliances. And other household items. Maybe some personalized things. Monogramming is very in right now." I nodded.
"I pass the reins to you four. Go wild." I said and started pulling out things to make dinner. I was thinking tortellini with pesto and a salad would be easy enough to make and would be delicious. Maybe i could make a soup to start out. I looked through the fridge. Broccoli and cheddar is easy enough. I pulled out the ingredients and set to work.
"So blue, gold and silver. What color are the bridesmaids going to be?" I bit my lip as I washed and cut up my broccoli.
"Well I was thinking that since there are three of them they could each be one color." I set my broccoli aside and started to melt butter in the pot before stirring in some chopped onion. "The problem is i don't know where we're going to get four formal gowns on such short notice."
Sia laughed. "Well the same place you got your dress for your introduction to the pack."
I looked over at her. "Well, I don't exactly know where that dress came from. Emma got it for me."
"Emma you never told her?" Sia asked. I added in my chicken broth and broccoli and let it simmer before turning to chop the block of cheddar into cubes.
"Told me what?" I said looking up at them briefly.
"Darling I sewed your dress for you before Ivan and I had to go to visit that pack in Canada." My jaw dropped.
"You did?" I lifted the pot lid to add in the cheese and milk. "I didn't know you could sew!"
"I started learning when i was pregnant with Beck. it was a dreadful winter, storms every other day, and Ivan wouldn't let me leave the yard he was so worried and protective. So I decided not to make his hair any more grey and find some new hobbies inside. So i started sewing for my baby boy." She smiled fondly. "Which led to crocheting and knitting and the whole nine yards."
"I mean could you...Well would you- Would you mind sewing our dresses?" I asked quietly.
She grinned widely. "I thought you'd never ask. It'd be an honor. As a matter of fact i can get started later tonight."
"I think Emma should be in blue." Lauren said, "It would look perfect with her blonde hair." I nodded and stirred in the final ingredients. Now it just had to simmer and be stirred every so often.
"Lauren...you're a blonde too." Emma trailed off. "And you're eyes are blue..."
"But Emma, I think she's right. You should be in blue. Lauren can be in gold, and Bella will be in silver." i said, "Bells has to be in silver. Her dark hair and green eyes need to be in Silver." I said.
"It's decided." Sia said. "Now Lexi, what design are you thinking?"
"Simple. Very simple." I mused. "Probably strapless, and straight bottom. Oooh a sweetheart neckline would look nice. But not tight fitting." The girls all muttered their agreements.
"And preferably not silk or satin." Bella replied.
"Princess?" I heard from the doorway. I turned to smile at him.
"Hi love." Hunter, Justin and Will siddled into the room and up to their mates.
"The game's ended. Do you mind if we go for a run?" He asked grinning.
"Sure, dinner will be ready when you get home." I said and he nodded. "but it will cost you."
"Oh?" he smirked. "And what might that be?"
"Come here and i'll tell you." He strolled over to me and wrapped his arms around me.
"What's you price, fair princess?"
"Three kisses."
"A pretty fair price if you ask me." He murmured and bent to give me three sweet kisses.
"Thank you sir, you're free to go." The rest of the men trudged into the room. Carter and Ryan and Damian flocked to the stove.
"What is that?"
"That smells amazing?"
"Can we eat first?"
"Ah ah ah, away from my soup." I said and slid between the boys and my precious soup. "You can have some when you get back."
"Come on boys let's get going," Will called from the back door." Ivan, Justin and Hunter stood by him. Beck turned to follow the other three when i tugged on his wrist. He turned back to look at me.
"Be safe," I whispered and kissed his cheek.
"Always," he murmured and kissed my forehead before turning back to the guys.
The room got significantly quieter once the army of male bodies left the room.
"So the ballroom here or the one at the packhouse?" Emma asked.
"Well i don't know that this one will be ready in time." I said stirring the soup one more time and then pulling out a pot to cook the tortellini in.
"Wait wait wait dear. What about your dress?" Sia asked. "I sketched this quickly." She showed me a lovely long, halter neck design. "With a light cloth over a silk slip i think it would be perfect. And it's supposed to be cold so maybe a cream knit shawl?"
"Oh my god it's perfect! I love it!" She smiled and nodded.
"I'll get started right away."
"Ooh Lex, look at these invitations. You can get the constellation that you picked printed on the invitations and place cards." Emma turned the laptop to show me a card with a dark background and gold sunspots, with white writing and a sample constellation printed in silver.
"That's gorgeous," i smiled, "But the only problem is that we can't get them delivered."
"No Lexi this is from the pack print shop. It's just down the road in the pack village." Huh?
"What village?"
They all stared at me.
"You havent been to the village yet?"
"Umm no."
"We'll have to take you one day."
"That's where the baker is and all the other shops that sustain the pack are located."
"Are any of the pack restaurants there?"
"One, the rest are in Seattle and Portland."
"Oh."
"Okay, I see the decorations and things and i like them all. I think naming each table with a chalkboard is a really cute idea. And i think using the branches for centerpieces area really good idea." Lauren thought out loud.
"What if we put fairy lights in the vases and then a star ornament on each centerpiece?" Emma asked.
"That's a good idea. What would you like for linens?" Sia asked.
"I was thinking we could just alternate each seat with the blue gold and silver. And i was hoping we could have big vases with the same kind of flowers i have in my bouquet." I chimed in.
"Ooh that would be so pretty and we could kind of line the walls with them." Bella said.
Emma handed me the laptop. "Here type in the name of your constellation." We had decided on ours on the ride home before i fell asleep. I carefully typed in the name and confirmed the order.
"You know...We could drape the ceiling with white cloth and where they attach to the walls, there are light fixtures. We could put white gold and blue light bulbs in the fixtures to make the cloth draping different colors." Sia said tapping her chin.
"I think that's about the only decorations we'll need." I said.
"And we have a wedding." Lauren sighed.
"I'll have Beck take me to the village so we can order the cake and flowers and talk to the chef and DJ."
"We can go to the store to the stuff to make the decorations." Emma offered, "and we can bring it back here and help you make them."
"That would be a life saver," I said sending her a grateful smile.
"If we start designing the house, we could also pick up some stuff for you to get started on the house and get the boys started on painting."
"i know Beck and the boys probably have meetings and some work to do since Beck has been gone so long, but im sure he can do that early and then help the rest of the day." I said starting to make the salad. "Thank you guys so much for helping me with all of this. It means so much to me."
"You're most welcome honey," Sia said and came around me to kiss my head while grabbing a wine glass from the cabinet. "I'll work on the dresses and start on the gift registry."
"Dining room first?"
"Dark grey,"
"Navy,"
"What about olive."
Here we go, I thought.
When the boys returned an hour later, the wedding was practically planned and there was a narrowly avoided a fight about the color scheme in the loft. But pacified by food, we were able to fill Beck in on what we had planned for the house and saw heard what he had to suggest. With a few changes we had a list of pretty much everything we needed to buy. He had the brilliant idea to keep all the walls white in the pups rooms until we needed them. Beck agreed that the meetings and pack work he had to do he could start that night and get up early the next morning. Then he would give the girls a credit card to go buy decor and bed linens and things like that for the house as well as stuff to make decorations for the wedding. In the meantime he would show me around the village, and we would pick up the invitations, meet with everyone else that would help make our wedding possible. After that the girls and I would come home and start sorting all of their purchases for the house and get started on the decorations, and he would take the boys to buy gallons on gallons of paint.
We ate dinner together as a family, gathered around the fireplace and sprawled out on couches with blankets and our dishes spread across our laps. They kept us up to speed on what was new in the pack. Who had discovered they were mates, who was expecting a pup, who was moving up in the pack (per Beck and I's approval) and other adventures we had missed. Apparently the game room in the pack house was off-limits because a few certain boys decided to play a game of dodgeball in there and broke pretty much everything. Understandably, the pack house was a little more hectic and a little more crazy with the entire pack living there. After dinner was finished, the boys were in charge of cleanup and it wasn't long until i felt a little nervous and had to go check up on them. Naturally I caught Hunter in the midst of spraying Ryan with the sink hose and Justin and Carter fighting over the leftovers while Beck and Will slapped their fingers out of the pots of food.
It was around nine when they all bundled up and said their goodbyes for the evening. I would be seeing them again for most of the day tomorrow and we all needed rest for the marathon we'd be running for the next few days. I was wiping down the counters in the kitchen when Beck came in and sat at the bar.
"How was your first day home?" He asked his chin resting in his cupped palm.
"Long." I sighed.
"You did really well today," he said and i looked up at him. "well first with the spending time with people and then cooking dinner for everybody and entertaining them and still getting stuff done for the wedding."
"Thanks," I murmured. "You know what i was thinking?"
"Hmmm?"
"I'd like to go to the packhouse and see everybody tomorrow night."
He sighed. "I don't know, do you think you're ready for all of that?"
i swallowed and nodded. "I'm going to be Luna. And i have to start acting like it. Before i was taken i feel like i never really got to spend time with the pack and i'd like to."
He was quiet for a moment. "Ok. We can go over for a little bit after dinner tomorrow."
"Thank you,"
"You're welcome."
"And we probably wont have time to visit tomorrow, but our horses must be missing us." I mused quietly.
"Yes we should probably go as soon as possible."
"The day after tomorrow?"
"Before we get tangled in painting the castle?"
"It's a date."
"That'll technically be our first date." I grinned.
"We are an odd couple aren't we?" he chuckled. I nodded and tossed the cloth in the sink. "Time for bed?"
I yawned and nodded. "I'll go lock the front door,"
"I'll be in the room," He said and kissed my cheek. I nodded and we walked to the foyer, where he started up the stairs and I turned to lock the front door and the deadbolt. I shut the lights off on the bottom floor and made my way up to the third floor. I pulled my hair out of its ponytail and scratched my scalp.
When i got to our door i pushed the door open and was greeted by a shirtless Beck. He turned and grinned at me, hooking his thumbs into the belt loops of his jeans.
Dear god, is that a sight to see. He smirked at me and beckoned me closer to him. I looked around the room and noticed the light to the bathroom on, but dimmed. I stepped closer to him and placed my palm in his outstretched hand. He tugged me up against him and caressed my face.
"Hi," I whispered.
"Hi," he murmured back. "Have i told you how beautiful you are yet today?" I blushed and looked away. "I thought that after a long day, you might like to take a bath with me." I looked at him and nodded, before giving him a soft kiss. He smiled and took my hand, leading me into the bathroom.
The huge marble tub, sat there surrounded by flickering candles and filled with bubbles and soft pink rose petals. He turned to look at me and trailed kisses over my face.
"You're too sweet to me," i whispered and he shushed me. "thank-"
"hush," he whispered back "No more talking. Now c'mere." He stepped back and placed his hands on the hem of my sweater. With the flourish of a master magician he pulled my shirt from my body. His hands reached for the button on my jeans which he undid deftly, and then slowly pulled down the zipper. Sliding his fingers into the waistband of my jeans he slid them down my legs and knelt down by my feet. He lifted each of my legs and slipped the fabric off. Then he stood up again and took his own jeans off.
He straightened and gathered me in his arms, kissing my mark and down the curve of my shoulder. I closed my eyes and sighed at the blissful feeling of being surrounded by my mate. He pushed my panties down and let them puddle at my feet. He offered me his hand as I stepped out of them. He walked stand behind me and unclasped my bra, pressing a kiss to the base of my neck and then lower, at the center of my spine. And then he was gone, and i looked back to see him wriggling out of his boxers.
Before i knew it, i was swept off my feet and held close to his chest. He mounted the marble steps up to the round tub and lowered the both of us into the warm water. He settled me between his legs and pulled me to lay back against his chest. I sat up to tie my hair into a bun and then laid back so the sudsy water reached my chin. I sighed in content and snuggled into him. I tilted my head back to look at him as his hands roamed under the water looking for my own. When he did he interlaced our fingers and moved them to rest on my stomach.
We sat there quietly for a long while.
"You're so beautiful Alexia."
"You're too sweet." I murmured, holding one of his hands in both of mine and tracing the lines of his palm and playing with his pack ring. "You're spoiling me,"
"No I'm cherishing you."
"Mhmm,"I hummed, "And you're doing a great job."
"Why do i get the feeling that this might be one of the few times we'll get to relax in the next two weeks."
"Because it is the only time in the next two weeks that we'll relax."
"As long as i have you by my side, i know we'll make it," he whispered in my ear as i dozed off.
Flashback over.
And I was right. That was the only time we got to relax in the next two weeks. It took the girls and I five afternoons to finish making the decorations and centerpieces. We got the invitations out in two days. Sia had our dresses done within the week. Meeting the pack again wasn't as bad as i had expected honestly. We went over to the house after we had had dinner and we just walked around the house hand in hand, greeting the people. They were all very kind and polite when we would pop in to their movie or their workout and say hello and actually speak to us. Beck was very curious as to how things had been running while he was gone and if they needed anything. They luckily didn't have many complaints other than they were missing their Alpha and Luna and were starting to get cabin fever, to which he replied he would start planning more activities to entertain the pack.
The house was also actually starting to look more and more like a home. We started adding little personal touches and pictures to the kitchen and the living room. We hung up pictures of the family and mainly of Beck and I, especially the ones of us when I met the pack. But Beck showed me the stuff he had brought back from my old pack lands and i was able to take some of the pictures out of my scrapbook and put them in frames. That way, my old family and my new family were always in sight.
We added more rugs and blankets to the living room keeping the colors brown and tan and cream and splashes of color to the kitchen. I thought turquoise would work well with the stainless steel fixtures and the white wood cabinetry and light grey marble. In our room, we went for a black comforter with a silver embroidered pattern and navy accents. The dining room we decided would look best in olive green with a dark mahogany table and chairs with cream cushions. the loft upstairs we added a white shag carpet and incredibly soft cream blankets and pillows and cushions. What he hadnt told me was up there was another fireplace. The warmth from the cream coloring and the fireplace made it really cozy up there.
The guest rooms were a variety of colors from a light lavender, to a maroon, grey, pale yellow, sea foam green and others. We had ten guest rooms so those took the majority of our time. The ballroom took a little bit more time as the top half of all the walls were all gilded mirrors and ceiling was painted in a fleur de lis pattern. Also the dance floor and the chandelier had to be installed.
In the time that we'd been home all my cuts and scrapes were healed and i started eating more regularly. I still wasn't back to a normal weight or eating full plates. But I was eating as much as I could and mainly solid foods and some snacks throughout the day. I still saw Blake a few times a week as a sort of therapy and to talk about how I am feeling and those sort of things. Unfortunately, Rhea hadn't come back yet. I hoped she would be back soon especially with my heat coming soon.
"Okay, your hair is done Lex." Bella said and went over my hair again with a can of hairspray.
"Now time for your make up," Lauren said and spun my chair around to face her. I took a deep breath and flashed her a small smile.
"Not getting cold feet are you Lexi?" Bella asked looking concerned.
"No not cold feet. Just a little nervous," I whispered.
"You're going to be fine. Don't worry." Lauren said and tilted my head back. "We're going to keep your makeup light. You're gorgeous enough as it is." I nodded and she swept a light foundation powder in my skin tone over my face as a base. She framed my face with a light bronzer and then a light blush over the apples of my cheeks. She took her eye shadow pallet and sticking to a light brown and light shades of gold, she dusted a light smokey eye over my lids. She traced a thin brown line at the base of my upper eyelid, very close to my eyelashes. Then a thin coat of mascara and a light pink gloss and I was done.
"Can someone zip me up?" Emma asked from the bedroom. I got up and straightened the silk robe I wore. She held the dress close to her chest and turned to bare her open zipper. I pulled it up her back and then pulled her hair back over shoulder.
"You look beautiful Emma Lee," I whispered.
"No Lexi, you look gorgeous." She said and gave me a big hug. Bella and lauren came in and each gave me another hug. "Come on it's time to get your dress on." But suddenly there was a knock on the door. We turned to look as the door opened and Will stepped in. He bowed his.
"Ladies, all of you look lovely."
"Will shouldn't you be getting Beck dressed?" I asked, starting to get nervous.
"Oh yeah, he finished getting dressed about twenty minutes ago." He scratched the back of his neck. "Um...he wanted to talk to you."
"Me? About what?"
"It's nothing bad. He just wanted to check in on you one more time."
"No! He can't see her before the wedding!" Bella shouted. "Tell him no!"
"But-"
"It's okay," I said, and they all turned to look at me. "Ladies it's about time you guys had to leave anyway. So Will excuse us a moment so we can put my dress on, and then you guys can all go out to the clearing. And then i'll crack the door so he can't see anything, but we can still talk." He nodded and stepped out, closing the door behind him.
"These first," I looked up to see a grinning Lauren holding up my wedding undergarments. I blushed and looked away. I slid them on and turned so they could help fasten the back. I felt the laces tighten against the skin of my back and the ribbon being tied in a bow at the bottom.
"Now this," Bella was swinging my garter around her finger. I blushed again as i took it from her and sat on the edge of the bed to slide it up my leg to my thigh. I slipped my shoes on, a pair of simple white heels. I was only allowed to wear them on the walk there and then i had to take them off.
"And last but not least. This" Emma took my dress that was hanging on the boudoir on a hanger. She slipped it off the hanger and undid the back, before lowering it to the floor. Lauren and Bella held my hands as I stepped into it. Emma pulled it on while wriggled my arms into the straps. They fastened the buttons up the back and stepped away.
"Are you ready?" Bella asked.
"Definitely." I smiled and looked down at my engagement ring. "I can't wait to be his wife and Luna." She gave my arms a squeeze.
"We'll see you in the clearing," Emma said kissing my cheek. "I'm lucky to have you as my sister."
"I'll see you soon. Thank you for everything," I said and squeezed her hand.
"Remember you're gorgeous and Beck loves you so much." Lauren whispered in my ear. "You were born to lead this pack."
"Thanks Lauren," I said and hugged her tight. All the girls looked at me with watery eyes. "No you can't cry because I'll start crying." I gave a watery laugh and wiped under my eyes.
"Are you going to be okay here by yourself?"
"Yeah it's only a half an hour." And then I'll be getting married. "Now you have to go. I can't have my bridesmaids late to my wedding."
"We'll see you real soon, Lexi" Bella said, and opened the door. The girls followed her out of the room and closed the door. I checked my make up in the mirror and fixed my hair. Then I heard a light knock on the door. I rushed over to it and cracked the door just slightly. Beck's coffee and chocolate scent wrapped around me and my nerves calmed instantly.
"Princess?"
"Beck?"
"How you doin? Are you okay?"
"Yeah I'm okay. Are you okay?"
"I'm wonderful. I wish I could see you."
"It's bad luck for you to see me. Plus you'll see me soon."
"You promise?"
"I promise."
"I'm not gonna wait out there for you only to find you've run off into the woods?"
"No I'll be there. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else."
"Don't get nervous okay? Remember it's just you and me."
"You and me."
"I have something from your parents."
"My parents?"
"Open it after I leave." Suddenly his hand appeared around the door with a small black box and a letter.
"This was in my old jewelry box," I said.
"I know. I brought it home for you to wear today. They would be so proud of you Lexi."
"Oh Beck, thank you."
"I have to go now, Princess. I love you okay?"
"I love you too." His hand reappeared again, and i placed my hand in his. He give it a quick squeeze. "I'll see you soon."
"Bye baby." And then he was gone and pulling the door shut after him.
I walked over to the bed and sat down, opening the box. I gasped at the sight. Two sapphire studs sat in the box. Tears filled my eyes. I recognized these from my mother's wedding portrait. I quickly put them on and opened the letter.
To our babygirl on her wedding day,
We hope we are there to say this to you in person on your big day. But just in case we wrote you this letter. We are so proud of you. You are such a strong and incredible young woman. We know you will be a wonderful wife, mother and Luna. We are so happy to be able to call you our daughter, and yes we will miss you. But we know that today we have not lost a daughter but gained a son. And he will take such good care of you. You look so beautiful today. Following tradition: something old, something new, something borrowed something blue. These earring fitt them all. The diamonds are brand new, these earrings are borrowed from your grandmother, and the sapphires are both blue and very old. Wear them with pride. We love you so much. In fact, words cannot describe how much we love you. You will always be in our hearts and you will always be our little girl.
Love always,
Daddy and Mom.
A tear fell out of my and I hastily wiped it away.
"I miss you Mom and Daddy. I wish you were here with me." I whispered to no one in particular. But I hope they heard it. I jumped at the sound of someone knocking on the door. It opened slowly to reveal Uncle John. He smiled at me gently.
"Oh goddess, you look so beautiful."
"Uncle John," i said and rose to give him a hug.
"Are you ready to go?"he asked.
I nodded and grabbed the shawl Sia had knitted and fastened it around my shoulders by tying the silk ribbon. I checked myself in the mirror one more time and grabbed my bouquet before joining him.
"How long is the walk?" I asked as I took his arm and let him lead me down the stairs.
"Just under twenty minutes." I don't know if my Jimmy Choos are going to survive this walk. We stepped out onto the back deck and down onto the lawn. It was completely dark out but the full moon shone bright in the sky. From there I could just begin to see little dots of light scattered throughout the forest. Uncle John led me to the edge of the forest where i realized the little dots were actually little lanterns with candles in them that lined either side of the path.
"He's a lucky guy," Uncle John murmured. I shook my head.
"No, I'm incredibly lucky to have him." I said.
"Are you nervous to be Luna?"
"A little," I shrugged, "You know just worried that I won't do a good job or I'll make a mistake."
"But you will. And that's okay as long as you learn from it."
We were quiet for a little while. The circle of light from the clearing was just visible.
"You wont forget about your aunt and I will you?" he asked quietly.
"Of course not. You guys are all i have left from my family."
"Yeah but you have this whole new family waiting for you."
"I need both."
"Well as long as you want us, your aunt and I will always be here."
"Thank you for everything, Uncle John. Especially walking me." I said and looked up at him.
"It's honor goddess, your daddy would have given everything to be here."
"He gave everything so I could be here. I have enough to thank him for."
By this time, we were about thirty yards from the clearing. The excited hum from the pack made my hands slick with nervous sweat. Luckily the snow that used to be on the ground had been cleared a way and there was only a light breeze to cause a chill in the air.
When we got to the edge, the pack members went silent and looked at Uncle John and I. The entire pack was here, the pups and all. Even the special guests Beck had invited. Beck turned and his jaw dropped. He covered his mouth and quickly wiped at his eyes before flashing me a big smile and an encouraging nod. Will had been standing at the edge of the circle, but stepped forward to clap him on the shoulder.
"Alright goddess, time to ditch the shoes." He firmly gripped my arm as I lifted my train and carefully stepped out of my heels. I shivered slightly when my bare toes touched the grass. Uncle John offered me his arm again and I took it gratefully. There was a small gap in the circle of packmembers for John and I to enter through. We walked slowly and i kept my eyes trained on Beck's. When I reached him and Ivan who I hadn't realized was behind him, Uncle John let go of my arm and kissed my cheek. Emma stepped forward and took my bouquet, and Beck offered me both his hands, which I held tightly.
"Wolves of the Black Mist Pack! We gather tonight to join two souls together in eternity! Your Alpha Beck Xavier Stone has finally found his blessing from the Moon Goddess! Alexia Celesta Brewer will join him in leading this pack!" Ivan's voice boomed, and the pack cheered. "Join me in offering their union to the Moon Goddess, so they may be blessed and live a long and happy reign!"
"Beck, my son, our Alpha can now lead this pack at his full potential with his Luna beside him. May your line continue with many healthy heirs." The tips of Beck's ears turned pink and i bit back a smile. "And Alexia, my daughter our Luna can support and guide this pack to greatness with her immense strength and tenderness."
"Fate ordained this pairing under the Moon Goddess's guidance and it is time their union is completed. Beck has already taken the Alpha oath, but they will be joined and Alexia will step fully into her Luna role tonight as an official member of the Black Mist pack."
"Beck, Alexia please separate your hands." Giving them one last squeeze, we dropped each other's hands. "Look at each other." Our eyes locked immediately. "It is now time to bear the rings. Beck, her ring," Beck took the delicate diamond filled band in the palm of his hand, "Alexia, his ring," Ivan handed me Beck's thick titanium band. "Beck you'll be first. Repeat after me and slide the ring onto her finger."
"My world, my love, my life I offer you this ring as a symbol of my eternal and infinite love in the hopes that we will live our lives together as one forevermore." Ivan said slowly.
"My world, my love, my life," Beck repeated slowly, carefully, in his deep baritone voice. "Alexia, i offer you this ring as a symbol of my eternal and infinite love," he paused to take a deep breath, "in the hopes that we will live our lives together as one forevermore." He slid the ring onto my left ring finger, it still warm from resting in his large palm. He bent and kissed the ring, letting his lips linger.
"Alexia, your turn." Ivan turned to me. "Take his hand," "My World, my love, my life I offer you this ring as a symbol of my eternal and infinite love in the hopes that we will live our lives together as one forevermore." I took a steadying breath, and looked up into the eyes of my love.
"My world, my love, my life: Beck I offer you this ring and my heart," my eyes filled with happy tears, "as a symbol of my eternal and infinite love in the hopes that we will live our lives together, as one, in happiness forevermore." I murmured and slid the ring onto his large finger, before giving it a kiss. A tear escaped my eyes and slid down my cheek, and he wiped it away with a thumb.
"Now for the blood sharing ceremony!" Ivan's voice echoed through the clearing. "At this time their bond will be sealed in the eyes of the Moon Goddess and we will have our newest member of the Black Mist Pack!" He turned to us. "Please stand side by side." We turned to face him, the lengths of our bodies firmly pressed against each other. "Alpha, the blood of your pack members, your humble servants seeking your guidance and leadership." Ivan offered Beck a gold chalice. He accepted it and took a sip, swallowing it quickly. Ivan turned to me, "Alexia will you to the best of you ability lead this pack and guide them and care for them as your own children alongside your mate?"
"I will." I said firmly.
"Will you always put their needs above your own?"
"I will."
"Do you pledge eternal loyalty to the Black Mist Pack and promise to defend them with all you have?"
"I do."
"Luna Alexia, I offer you the blood of you pack members, your humble servants seeking your guidance and care, and welcome you to the Black Mist Pack." He said and offered me the chalice. I raised the cup to my lips and took a drink, ignoring the coppery and metallic taste and the unnatural warmth and swallowed it. At once, I felt what can only be described as power flood my body and warmth fill my veins. A thousand voices filled my head as I was joined in the pack link, and all bore the same message.
'LONG LIVE ALPHA AND LUNA STONE'
The sound of howls filled the air and I opened my eyes to the members of our pack howling. Beck smiled down at me and I gave him a big grin in return.
At the sound of Ivan's thunderous voice, the howling stopped.
"Alpha Stone, please take this knife and draw the blood of your beloved." Beck took the offered dagger, and my outstretched left hand, turning it to expose the fleshy skin of my palm. Using just the tip, Beck drew a single line down my hand, which soon filled with blood. "Luna Stone, please take this knife and draw the blood of your beloved." I took the knife with shaking hands and Beck's right hand and quickly cut a shallow line on his palm, in the same place he cut mine. His blood rose to the surface and we turned to Ivan.
"And now for the tying of the hands!" Ivan walked around us in a circle. "This silver ribbon symbolizes the blessing of this union from the Moon Goddess, and represents the sanctity of their union forever!"
"Alpha and Luna please join your hands," Beck lifted his hand and I pressed my palm to his. At the junction of our blood, electricity jumped between us, and heat pooled beneath our skin. Ivan looped the ribbon around our wrists and in the valley of our thumbs. "Now interlace your fingers," he carefully tied our hands together around our joined fingers.
"Now it is time to claim your constellation so your love may live forever in the sky with the moon goddess, and we will forever have a reminder of your undying love."
"We have selected for our constellation," Beck began, his voice strong and sturdy.
"The constellation: Orion the Hunter." I finished.
"A constellation of the winter season, which will be seen on our anniversary," He looked over at me.
"And a tale of love that includes the Moon Goddess," I looked back at him.
"And describes how one gives everything they have, even themselves for the one they love," He said.
"It is perfect for us," I finished and turned back to Ivan.
"And with that, Alpha and Luna, your Union has been completed and blessed. Alpha, you may kiss your bride." Ivan said clapping. Beck smiled and turned to me, our hands still tied. He cupped my face with his free hand, and tilted my head back. He captured my lips in a sweet, and gentle kiss, which i gladly responded to. The cheers from the surrounding pack members were deafening.
We pulled away, smiles stretching across both of our faces. Beck rested his forehead against mine and rubbed my nose with his. Happy tears spilled down my cheeks and he chuckled.
"I love you," I whispered.
"I love you too, Mrs. Stone." He whispered back. I pecked his lips again and we separated. Beck raised our joined hands in the air, and I swear my brain rattled in my skull with the volume of the cheers. Each pack member held a lit sparkler, which cast wicked shadows against our faces.
"Now your Alpha and Luna will lead you from the clearing and back to the feast. It is time to celebrate their marriage!" Ivan yelled. Emma passed me my bouquet. Beck turned to me.
"Ready?"
"Definitely." And together, we walked to the edge of the clearing where my shoes waited. He held my firmly as I slipped them back on, and with the applause and cheers of our pack as our parade song, we led our pack back to the packhouse.
When we arrived inside, the pack was led away and ushered directly into the ballroom, but Beck and I were escorted to a private room, and left alone.
His lips were on mine in an instant and he kissed me soundly, leaving me breathless. He pulled away and grinned. "Now we untie this ribbon, and I put it in my pocket, we seal each others wounds, and I get to kiss my wife again."
"Please do, husband." I smiled. He and i had to work together to untie the knot and unravel the ribbon, each only using one hand. To cut the ribbon would signify cutting the bond and that was out of the question. Finally our hands were free, and he took my hand in his. He licked the cut he had made, sealing the broken skin and pressed a kiss to the inflamed area. I took his hand and did the same. He grabbed my face with both hands and kissed me again.
"My Alexia, my love, my wife." He whispered and kissed my forehead. He held my body to his and lifted me off the ground and spun me in a circle. I laughed and he kissed my cheek as he put me down. "I love you so much."
"I love you more." A knock on the door pulled our attention away from each other. Will stepped in and cleared his throat.
"You have some people waiting for you." Beck took my hand again and we walked to stand in front of the closed french doors.
Will slid into the ballroom, but we could still hear him, "Black Mist Pack and guests, it is my honor to present to you your newlyweds, Alpha and Luna Stone!" The doors swung open and the lights from the photographer's camera bulbs flashed. Beck and I strode forward into the ballroom, waving at the still cheering pack. Beck led us to our seats at the head of the room and we stood beside our chairs.
"Black Mist Pack, my lovely wife and I cannot thank you enough for your support through the difficult time, we've had in the past few weeks and for sharing in our special day with us. Alexia, you are the most beautiful and incredible woman I have ever met. And I am so proud to call you my mate. I can't wait to rule alongside you. I love you so much. Now let's eat!" He said and the waitstaff brought out the meals. A flute of champagne was placed before either of us, and we clinked glasses before taking a sip. Will, Justin and Hunter sat to Beck's right, and Bella, Emma and Lauren sat to my left. We thoroughly enjoyed our arugula salad, peaceful chicken and plenty of rolls. And all throughout our meal, Beck was sure to sneak plenty of kisses in. I couldn't help but relish in the sound of our rings clicking against the crystal of our champagne flutes, and i quickly found it was one of my favorite sounds.
After dinner, it was time for the party to start. But this time Justin took the mic. A few people had started to get up and head to the dance floor, but he spoke before any of them could make it.
"Ladies and gentlemen, please rise and turn your attention to the dance floor as our bride and groom share their first dance." i looked over at Beck but found he was already smiling at me from the center of the dance floor. I stood up and walked to meet him just as our song started playing. How Long Will I Love You by Ellie Goulding, started to fill my ears as he took me in his arms. One hand held mine, while the other caressed the small of my back. He kissed me softly as we slowly began to sway and turn in time to the music. He rested his head against mine and I closed my eyes breathing in his sweet scent. And then he lightly let me go into a spin, and tugged me back to catch me again, and I couldn't help but laugh. And all too soon our song was ending, and he pulled me in for a long kiss, while dipping me low to the floor. Wolf whistles bounced around the room and I blushed.
"And now," Emma began. "For a special dance for our bride, our Luna, Alexia." I looked around wildly as Beck slowly backed away from me with a smile, and Uncle John's smiling face filled my vision. He bent low in a bow, as My Wish, by Rascal Flatts started to play. He and i were much simpler in our moves turning slowly in a circle and swaying our hips. But half way through, Uncle John let me go and stepped back as Ivan took his place. Tears dripped down my face, as Ivan held me close and sang softly in my ear. When the song ended he stepped away and gestured to me as if presenting me to the crowd.
I pulled them both aside and hugged them each solidly. "Thank you so much," I whispered and wiped your eyes.
"We wanted your special day to be as perfect as possible, even though your daddy couldn't be here." Ivan whispered as John kissed my forehead.
"I can't thank you two enough, this means so much to me." I murmured and they nodded before returning me to Beck.
"Now Alpha Beck would like to invite his mother to the dance floor for a special dance." Will called. Beck kissed my head, before taking his mother's hand and kissing her cheek and guiding her around the dance floor to the rhythm of Carrie Underwood's Mama's Song. I watched them fondly, whispering to each other and sharing sweet smiles. He looked at her with so much love, and looked just like her. It was beautiful to watch. Their song ended and Sia left the dance floor, but Beck stayed.
"We know you all want to dance, and we're almost there! But my assistant Justin, will be placing a chair on the dance floor. It is time for our dear Alpha to find the sweet Luna's garter!" Hunter yelled with a laugh. My cheeks flamed as Beck raised two fingers and made a 'come hither' motion to me. I'm sure I was the color of a tomato as I walked over to him across the dance floor. Justing placed a chair in the center and gestured for me to sit. Beck smirked and winked and kneeled in front of me. A drumroll sounded and i covered my face with my hands as Beck lifted my flowing skirts. And then suddenly his whole torso was up my skirt as he looked for my garter. The crowd howled with laughter as he rooted around. Really, Beck it's not that hard to find! I felt a warm, openmouthed kiss on the inside of my thigh as the lace band was slipped down my leg. Beck re-emerged, face slightly flushed and hair slightly disheveled as he slid the garter down to my knee and then held my bare calf as it traveled down my leg.
Once it was off he replaced my skirts, gave me a kiss and held it triumphantly in the air. The single guys gathered around and Beck theatrically turned around and launched it into the air. There was a large scuffle and the tiny scrap of lace was clutched in a fist. A redfaced Ryan stood up and brought the garter back to Beck as the crowd laughed. Beck threw and arm around his shoulder and ruffled his hair. Once he let him go, i gave him a hug and kissed his cheek.
"Would all the single ladies please report to the dance floor." Justin called. A crowd of squealing girl rushed into a jostling bunch on the dance floor as Will presented me with my bouquet. I took a few steps forward and turned around before closing my eyes and tossing it behind me. The excited squeals were all i needed to know my job was done. Bella was waving it in the air before bringing it back to me. I gave her a big hug and soon the lights were lowered and the music really started playing. I went and put my bouquet aside and headed back to the dance floor where the girls were getting their groove on. The guys surrounded us and it wasn't long before I felt my husband's hands on my hips. Once a fast paced song started I danced out of his grip and right into Emma's.
"Sorry baby!" I shouted over the music as Emma and i started giggling and dancing together. But he wasn't sad for long as I was soon back in his arms and stayed there for the rest of the night.
"It is now time for the cutting of the cake!" Emma called over the loud speaker and people filed onto the dance floor. Beck and I stood in front of the pack as the chef wheeled out our cake. I gasped at the gorgeous detail of the flowers and the little sign, made to look like wood with a B+A in a heart. I firmly gripped the cake cutter and Beck's hands covered mine and together we cut one piece. We each grabbed a fork and fed each other a bite. That went smoothly. It was when beck fed me a second bite that he got frosting all over my face and i just decided to shove the whole piece in his face. He laughed and immediately held his frosting covered face to mine in a sugary kiss.
After cake, the DJ played a few more songs, before the last one came on. Never Stop by SafetySuit started to play and I found myself swaying with my head on Beck's chest again. I closed my eyes, and relished in the feeling of being so happy and so in love and never wanted the night to end. Beck twirled me around and around the dancefloor, careful of the other couples and never faltering once.
"Ladies and gentlemen, that concludes our celebration. But I think we all have one sparkler left. Please light them and line the path to the door as we see our Alpha and Luna out!" Wills voice rang out and the room went dark. Then one spark came and then another, until a path of sparklers led Beck and I to the door and we jogged through hand in hand. As we reached the door, the sparklers were blown out and the lights came on to the pack's applause. Beck scooped me into his arms.
"Thank you all for everything. We couldn't ask for a better pack! Everyone have a wonderful evening!" I waved over his shoulder as he walked as quickly down the stairs, and then using his wolf speed to get us out the door and onto the front porch of our house. He opened the door.
"And across the threshhold we go once more," he said grinning and crossed the both of us over the threshold. Again using his speed he brought us up to the bedroom and set me on my feet.
It was instinctive.
"I want to cherish you, my wife," he said and turned me around. i had to ditch the shawl as i started dancing so it was all to easy for him to unbutton my dress until it was a pool of silk and chiffon at my feet. He took in my white lace corset, tied with a silk bow at the bottom, and my lace panties and he growled. I turned to look at him and noticed he had already stripped himself of his shirt. When his eyes met mine, he removed the distance between us and kissed me passionately. "You are a vision. You are so so beautiful." He whispered.
He picked me up and laid me gently on the bed. He crawled over me and kissed his way up my body. When he reached the mark on my neck, my back arched and he slipped his hands beneath me to undo the laces on my corset. In an instant my panties and his pants were off and across the room.
In the midst of a thousand kisses, we found ourselves tangled in each other once more, and I was overwhelmed by the sensation of making love to him. He certainly cherished me that night. He worshipped every inch of my body, and I worshipped his. At long last we fell asleep, my head on his chest, our limbs entwined. And we fell asleep in pure bliss, finally husband and wife.
It was hours later that i woke up to a searing heat coursing through my body followed by immense pain. I felt like i was being boiled alive, and i was vaguely aware that i was screaming. My eyes snapped open and I looked into Beck's worried eyes.
"Baby what's wrong?" he asked, concerned. I gritted my teeth against the pain, and gripped his hand suddenly needing him, or at the very least our contact. I groaned and arched my back again as another bolt of fire charged through me. "Lexi what is it?" I ground my teeth together, and when it finally gave me a break i panted out an answer for him.
I gasped. "My heat. It's starting."
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Okay 11,000 words and ten hours later i have your second chapter in two days for you. Seriously don't get used to this. i have an ear infection so i've been quarantined to my room with my laptop. so i figured i'd give you a couple updates. This was honestly one of my favorite chapters and i really cried while writing it. several times. I hope you enjoyed this as much as i did! Ive been reading all your comments and its incredible how in-tune and invested in this story you are. i started this store without a single follower and expected literally zero reads. And here i am one year, and thirty six parts later at #25 on the Werewolf list. And it is seriously thanks to all of you. You people are so amazing and you honestly give me life! I cant thank you enough for what you've done for me and I hope you know how important you all are to me. I can't wait to progress through this story with you and see if you like what's in store for Beck and Alexia. I have a confession to make though. None of my family or my friends know that I'm writing this story. So to see the number of comments and readers i have and to see nearly every country on the map of readers filled in...It takes my breath away and only makes me love writing more and more every day. i love you all and i hope you keep reading and commenting and interacting and voting and being the incredible humans you are because i love you.
Kisses forever and always.
Alwayslovve486
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo