Chapter Twelve: You’ll Be The Death of Me

I waited until I was sure that he was asleep before getting up. The numbers flashing on the side table clock alerted me that it was after half past twelve at night. I was sweating heavily, my heart thumping at unbelievable speeds. I was surprised that he hadn’t heard it as I got out of the bed quietly.

I couldn’t breathe!

I felt suffocated and every time I closed my eyes, I was plagued by images of terrible things happening to me because of my decision to leave Mateo. I was having nightmares, except I hadn’t even slept yet.

I grabbed one of his sweatshirts and a pair of my sweat pants and put them on. My hair was a mess, but I wasn’t bothered as I silently left the room. Our house was quiet, although I could hear some of the pack members from the other two pack houses, with the most noise coming from the teen’s pack house. I guess the house mothers were having difficulty with the teens today, so I decided to save them.

“ALL TEENAGERS ARE TO SHUT UP AND GET TO BED IMMEDIATELY!” I conveyed to all the teenagers in the pack.

The noise immediately stopped and the house mothers linked me in thanks. When everything was finally peaceful, I was in the kitchen having a cup of tea. I thought it would calm me down, but it did absolutely nothing.

I went outside and shifted before running back to the lake. I had an idea that I wanted to try out that would allow me to vent without being found or heard. Star reached the edge of the lake before I shifted back. I let Marissa take control as she formed a bubble around us, and then I walked in until I was fully submerged by the water and at the very bottom of the surprisingly deep lake.

With the bubble around me, I let everything go. I screamed as loudly as I could, until my screams turned to sobs.

I cried more than I’d ever cried my entire life.

I still couldn’t believe it. I still couldn’t believe that I only had three days before my life would take a turn for the miserable. I couldn’t believe that I would be condemned to spending the rest of my life without the one person who was made for me.

That’s what I couldn’t understand.

Why was I mated with Mateo, if he was only going to be ripped from my grasp? Can I not fulfill this mission without needing to leave him? What is it about the mission that requires me to leave him in any case? Why am I the one who has to suffer?

For a moment, I let myself envy Mateo. Unlike me, he wouldn’t remember me, so his life would only go back to what it was before me. Granted that his past wasn’t exactly a happy one, but at least he was accustomed to it.

I would have to live with the memories, knowing that there’s absolutely nothing I can do about it.

I stayed under the water for a good three hours, surrounded by complete darkness. This is what my life would come to after I leave Mateo - complete and utter darkness. My hand trailed over my stomach.

What would become of my baby without their father? Where would I raise them? How would I do it without Mateo? Would he ever get to meet his child? Even though I can’t be with him, can his child be with him?

My hope was crushed when the answer to that question dawned on me. Of course his child could never be with him because that would lead to questions about me and how our child came to be. I had to accept that this was it.

This was the future I was condemned to.

I left the water to find Max, Mark and Orion standing at the edge of the lake with my clothes in their hands. They averted their gazes while handing me my clothes and I quickly put them on. When I was done, the three of them hugged me and I broke down further.

“Boris and Balthazar told us everything,” Mark whispered when I’d stopped crying.

“Did he really die?” Max asked me. I nodded.

“And they confirmed that he was poisoned?” Orion asked. Again I nodded, but something was sparked in me.

“Who do you guys think could’ve done it?” I asked them.

“It could be anyone with how many enemies Mateo has, so the wise thing to do would be to narrow down the enemies that really want him dead,” Mark suggested.

“So his memory will be wiped by Thursday, which is also the day we have to be back on territory,” Orion informed me. It was early Tuesday and the inauguration was tonight at Litmus.

“What exactly did Boris and Balthazar tell you guys? What’s the plan for the pack?” I asked.

“Well, the three of us are the only ones that know the full truth. Obviously you and Mark will be leaving, but we’re not telling anyone else anything. Balthazar is going to put a spell on the whole pack and make them forget all about you. It will be like you never came, except Max and I will be the only ones who will know that you did,” Orion replied. I was stunned.

“Everyone is going to forget about me?” I whispered, my tears starting again.

“It’s what’s best for now June, but we’re hoping that it won’t be something that’s permanent,” Max comforted. I didn’t feel any better about the whole situation.

“So, it’s as easy as that?” I asked.

“It would seem so, but we’re going to help you June. You won’t be separated from him forever, and you definitely won’t have to raise your kid alone,” Mark said as he hugged me.

I appreciated having him there more than ever.

“I can’t believe this is happening to me,” I sobbed. The three of them were speechless as they tried to comfort me. I don’t know how long we stood like that for.

“Pumpkin,” I was brought out of my tears by the sound of Balthazar’s voice. I looked up to find him, Domitius, Leona, Mama Deo and Merlin there. I was confused by their presence, especially since Leona had a dress bag with her.

“What’s going on?” I croaked.

“Do you trust us?” Domitius asked me.

“Of course I do, but what’s going on?” I asked once more.

“Let us help ease your pain a little,” was all that was said to me before I was teleported to a room I don’t know.

It was a beautiful room and all, but I still had no idea what was going on. I was with Mama Deo and Leona and they made me sit down on a chair and face a mirror. I grimaced at the sight of my swollen, red and puffy eyes. My nose didn’t look any better honestly, and my cheeks had horrible splotches on them.

“What’s going on?” I asked again. I didn’t get a response, but instead watched as my face became clear.

I didn’t look like I’d spent the last four hours crying my eyes out.

“Don’t worry about a single thing Juniper,” Leona’s soothing voice massaged my ears.

I let myself be entranced by it as Mama Deo started doing something to my face while Leona did my hair. I let my mind be completely clear of everything, even curiosity. I let it be blank and sat like a robot. It took them minutes before I was told to stand up and undress.

Now I was really curious.

They told me to take a bath and to be careful of my face and hair. When I was done, I applied lotion onto my body before I took myself back to them. I was given a pair of white lingerie that I put on without any arguments.

The next moment had my eyes almost rolling out of their sockets. Leona unzipped the bag dress and pulled out a gorgeous white dress. It was long and satin from what I could see. She held it up for me and instructed me to get dressed. Once again I complied.

I was given a pair of diamante heels before I stood in front of the mirror. I couldn’t believe my eyes as I took myself in. Gone was the evidence of my sadness, but was instead replaced by a glow. I looked at the dress properly.

The bodice was tight on my breasts, and had a sort of silk belt across my visibly swelling stomach. It had two straps both starting from the left side. The one strap led to the back, while the second one stretched across my chest to the other side. At the joint of the straps is a flower.

My hair was curled and held up in a sophisticated do with a sparkling hairclip that glistened as I moved side to side. My emerald eyes were shining beautifully; void of all sadness and misery.

I looked breathtaking, even if I say so myself.

“What’s going on?” I dared to ask.

“You’re getting married, sweetheart,” Leona smiled, tears shining in her eyes.

“What?” I whispered.

Mama Deo gave me a small comforting smile. “You’re getting married. We figured that since you’ll be parting with Mateo, you’d be a little happier parting with his heir and his last name.”

“Really?” I asked, not quite believing it.

“Yep! Boris and Balthazar managed to plant the idea into Mateo’s head and make it seem like he came up with it all on his own. He’s outside now, ready to say ‘I do’. It’s just us as your guests and witnesses,” Leona replied.

“What about my brother?” I asked. I wanted him there.

“He’s outside as well dear. Orion and Max tagged along too,” Mama Deo informed.

Alright, so everyone really important was here.

“I don’t have a Maid of Honor,” I realized.

“Honey, is that really the most important thing right now?” Leona teased.

I flushed. “I guess not.”

“Now, let’s get you out there before the sun fully rises. We want the beautiful scenery,” they said as they pushed me out of the room.

“Where are we anyway?” I asked when I heard the sounds of waves crashing in the distance.

“We’re in the Seychelles,” they said before taking off, leaving me by myself. I was about to call after them when I heard movement behind me.

“You look absolutely stunning pumpkin,” Balthazar smiled, tears gleaming in his eyes. My own tears sprung to life.

“Indeed you do,” Mark, Boris, Orion, Domitius and Max said, appearing behind Balthazar. I realized then that they were all dressed in tuxedos.

“Who’s out there with Mateo?” I asked.

“My mom, Mama Deo and Merlin, but don’t worry, we’re joining him too. We just wanted to come and see you before you walk down the aisle,” Domitius smiled, making me blush.

“Well, we’re going to go now. I should warn you though, the song I chose for your walk down the aisle is very unconventional, but the lyrics speak to you and Mateo right now and in the future, although he won’t know that,” Boris explained. My heart jumped at his words, reminding me of my impending loss.

“Right now isn’t the time for sadness June Bug! You’re going to go out there and say ‘I do’ to the man of your dreams,” Max smiled, using his beloved nickname for me.

“Max is right, sis! For the next three days, you’re going to be happy with your husband,” Mark added with a wink.

“I can’t believe you guys are doing this for me,” I whispered, a tear leaving my eye.

“You deserve it June. He won’t remember you, but we will all work towards getting you guys back together, that’s for sure!” Orion said strongly.

I smiled. “I don’t doubt you guys for a second.”

“Good! We’ll see you out there kiddo,” Boris said before they hugged me, kissed my cheeks and left. It was just Balthazar and I left.

He hugged me and I held onto him tightly. “You really do look amazing pumpkin, and I’m sorry about everything that has to happen. If there was a way to get you out of this, I would take it up just to see you happy. It breaks my heart seeing you go through this.”

Again the scent of flowers engulfed me, distracting me from the sadness in his tone. I love Balthazar as though he’s my father and to know that he cares so greatly is an amazing feeling in the world. I know that he would do anything for me.

I looked up at him. “Would you do me the honor of walking me down the aisle?”

Astonishment flashed in his eyes. “Really?”

“I wouldn’t have it any other way,” I confirmed.

“Then I would be honored indeed,” he beamed, taking my hand in his before looping my arm around his.

We walked outside and there was a path we had to take before reaching the shore. When we did, my eyes widened at the glorious scene before me. The white sand was beginning to gleam as the first rays of sunlight rose above the ocean.

The sky was also becoming lighter by the second, and we were surrounded by the sounds of nature awakening. The fresh morning air and ocean breeze was enough to calm anyone down.

Looking further away, I spotted the chairs and the makeshift altar that had been set up. There were white rose petals everywhere, and I was beginning to think that these people had gone into my head and seen what I wanted for my wedding. Everything was perfect and simple, right down to my dress.

I didn’t want flashy things, so this was my perfect wedding.

As we made it to the end of the white carpet, my eyes looked to the other end and my breathing stalled. There he was, looking as handsome as ever. He was dressed in an all-white tuxedo (like I’d imagined) and he looked completely entranced by me. It was then that I heard the song softly playing in the background.

You’re the one, designed for me.

A distant stranger that I will complete.

I know you’re out there, we’re meant to be.

So keep your head up and make it to me.

I recognized it as Sam Smith’s ‘Make It To Me’. I found it amazing that Boris would not only pick a song that related to this situation, but that the song would be sung by one of my favorite artists. I couldn’t have been happier as we began walking down the aisle.

The amount of joy I felt in that moment was what I wanted to be feeling for the rest of my life. The butterflies swarming my stomach made me feel like I could do and be anything - or it could just be the heated and overwhelmingly affectionate gaze radiating from my mate.

I noticed that Merlin was going to be marrying us, which I found really sweet. Amongst our guests was one I didn’t expect to see. I was confused at first, until Leona leaned into the man, making me realize that it was the Vampire King, Domitius’ father. I wasn’t aware that he would attend my wedding of all events.

We finally made it to the end of the aisle where Balthazar handed me over to Mateo, but not before saying something in his ear that made him pale. I giggled when Mateo nodded frantically. I could only imagine what Balthazar had threatened him with.

“Friends and family, we are gathered here in this intimate celebration to join these two souls in holy matrimony. They are already bound by an unbreakable bond to their kind, and they wish to be bound further to solidify what they already have. Is there anyone who feels that the two of them do not belong together? If that is the case, then speak now or forever hold your peace,” Merlin announced. Everyone gave him a ‘are you kidding?’ look, to which he chuckled.

“It was worth the shot! Anyway, I’ve been alerted that the couple will be saying their own vows, and so Mateo shall go first,” Merlin said.

Mateo and I turned to face each other, holding hands with our fingers entwined. For a moment, none of us said anything as we took in each other, our surroundings and the situation. After a few seconds, we were both smiling like goofy idiots.

“I never imagined that I would ever live to see this day. When I was born, high expectations were already placed on me. My parents didn’t love me, and they saw me as the heir to the pack and nothing else. When my little sister was born, their love fell onto her until she turned eight. By then, I was already a trained Alpha, despite only being twelve. I never had a life of my own, constantly being told what to do. A week after I turned fifteen, my parents were murdered and I had to take up the role of Alpha. It was then that the curse of the Santiago’s was shared with me,” he started off. I squeezed his hands in encouragement.

“Through the turmoil in my life, the one thing I’d looked forward to was a mate; someone who would give my empty life a purpose. Being told that I would never have a true mate was the last straw and I lost myself. I became a ruthless Alpha, and was soon acknowledged as such around the world. To this day, everyone knows of my brutality, but only my pack knows of the miracle that walked into my life and made it better,” he smiled, wiping away my tears. He took a deep breath before continuing.

“When I heard the story about the famous Evigan child that failed to shift, I didn’t feel sorry for you. In fact, I thought that Dayton and Gail deserved what they got by getting such a weak heir. When you stumbled onto my territory, I was sure that Ryan was telling me lies. I couldn’t believe that a rogue would dare to cross my lands, so I assumed you were a spy. Never in my life did I imagine that I’d grow attached to you from the moment I laid eyes on your emerald orbs. I was beyond taken, but I couldn’t bring myself to believe it, knowing that Odessa’s curse still overshadowed me,” he paused. I smiled at him and he smiled back.

“You picked up that I was missing something in my life, but you didn’t know that I was craving to be loved, to be noticed by someone who wasn’t after my power or looks - which is everything you weren’t. When you shifted right before my very eyes, it was over for me - I was completely in love with you. Zeus convinced me that we could take you on as our chosen mate and finally have the happiness we yearned for,” he said, before Max interrupted.

“Thank Goddess you listened to him,” he taunted.

“Shut up Max,” I giggled while everyone laughed. Mateo shooed his head, smiling, before turning back to me.

“We had our rough start, and I’ll take full responsibility for my stupid moments. When Balthazar came to fetch me, telling me that you were in heat, I was sure that I would shut down forever from losing the only person who Zeus and I ever felt an attraction and connection to. Little did I know that that day would be the happiest day of my life; the day I found out that I had a true fated mate,” he ended with a whisper. It was my turn to wipe away his tears.

We allowed him to catch his breath before continuing again. “Baby doll, you have not only brought joy, light and happiness to me, but you have brought it to the pack too. You have given them hope of a rightful heir, even if they don’t know that they will have their rightful heir soon enough. You’ve given me reasons to smile and to laugh, reasons to look forward to a brand new day every day, and reasons to want to be a better person; a better Alpha, brother, friend, mate, father and now soon to be husband. I used to think that out of all the cursed Alphas, I was cursed with not only being able to have a true mate, but not being able to know true happiness either.”

Oh, my heart.

“Today, I stand before our friends and family to say that you have proven me wrong. You came into my life and now I know what true love and true joy is. Today, I stand before our friends and family and promise to love you until the end of time with everything that I am. I promise to be the best friend, mate, husband and father out there. I can’t promise that I won’t make mistakes, or that our journey to forever will be an easy one, but I can promise that for as long as you believe in me and you believe in our love, I will fight to the ends of the earth for us. I love you Juniper Lee-Ann Evigan,” he finished off before kissing my forehead.

I was a complete mess!

Thank goodness Mama Deo used waterproof makeup because I was bawling my eyes out. I couldn’t even breathe. Everything was getting too much for me - his words were hitting all the wrong spots. It felt like someone was holding my heart, squeezing the life out of it.

He looked at me in confusion, and that’s when my heart completely shattered.

Before I knew it, I was back in the hotel room, with Leona and Balthazar with me. They both held me as I cried my eyes out. Why was life so unfair to me? Why did fate have to put me in Mateo’s life, only to take me away?

He’s clearly as fully invested in our relationship as I am, so why is it that we can’t be together? I wanted the world to cease its existence so that I wouldn’t have to feel the pain anymore.

“It’s okay, sweetheart! You were just overwhelmed by his words. We all understand what this day is doing to you, but you have to remember the reason we’ve put it together in the first place. That man out there loves you, and if you have faith in that love, then I am completely sure that you will be able to find your way back to him, or him back to you. For now, make a good memory of this day, and let it be the day that you will think back on for strength to carry on helping him. You must remember that you’re doing this for him. It may seem unfair now, but just keep your eyes on the bigger picture. Once you’ve discovered everything you need to, everything else will work out in the end,” Leona soothed.

I sat there and drank in her words. She was right. I was only thinking about the misery I was feeling, and not about the end goal. I was making my wedding day the worst day of my life, when it should really be the best and most beautiful.

“She’s right, pumpkin. And like we said, you’re not alone in this, so as soon as you accomplish your mission, we will all fight to get you back together with him. Don’t give up on the love you clearly share. You were mated for a reason, and from the connection we all just witnessed, that’s what you should be hanging onto through this journey. Everything will come right in the end,” Balthazar added.

“I get it now! Thanks guys,” I said as I hugged them. Leona had become a mother to me in two days, and I couldn’t have been more grateful.

“Anything for you! Now let’s go back out there! It’s a good thing your officiator can manipulate time,” Leona winked.

I frowned. “What do you mean?”

“You’ll see,” they both said before taking my hands and teleporting me back to the beach.

Merlin and Mama Deo were the only two people besides the three of us who weren’t frozen in time, and I was stunned.

“We’ll just rewind to his last sentence. This time, try not to run away,” Merlin gave me a small smile. I blushed and nodded, taking my place in front of Mateo before time rewound before me. It was like Merlin was holding a universal remote and pressed play.

“...I love you Juniper Lee-Ann Evigan,” he ‘repeated’ before kissing my forehead.

The tears were still in my eyes, but this time, they were tears of joy. He shot me a smile and it was that moment that defined my future for me - I would figure out whatever I needed to, help him wherever I needed to and I would make damn sure that I would fight to get back to him.

“Juniper, it’s your turn,” Merlin said softly once I’d caught my breath. I nodded and turned to my handsome and anxious mate. I giggled at the anticipation in his eyes before gathering my thoughts.

“The story of the Evigan child who didn’t shift when they were meant to is one that has traveled the world as much as my mate’s reputation. People automatically wrote me off, and my parents almost let me be killed. My grandfather was killed that day for trying to stand up for me. My grandmother took me in and hid me for five years. She raised me and taught me everything that I know, and I owe my life to her. When my parents found out that not only was I still alive, but that I’d been living on their territory still, they went after my grandmother and killed her. When I walked into the house to find her dead body lying at their feet, it was then that they gave me two choices - I could either choose to stay imprisoned for the rest of my life in their cells, or I could choose to leave their territory and never come back. I chose the second choice and was immediately run off of the territory,” I recalled, grief striking me at the loss of my grandparents. Mateo cupped my cheek, encouraging me to continue.

“As a Naturalist witch, I have the ability to control the weather, and since I was so upset, it was raining hard as I was chased. I was barefoot and my feet had been cut and stabbed so much that I was actually leaving a blood trail. Since I hadn’t shifted yet, it meant I couldn’t heal as fast as my kind. When I realized that I wasn’t being chased anymore, I stopped and cried. I didn’t know what would become of my life, but little did I know that leaving Litmus would be the best choice I ever made,” I smiled, my eyes darting over to Max who returned a knowing smile.

“My grandparents had told me that it was impossible for me to have a mate, so you can imagine how confused I was when I found myself not only not fearing the most powerful Alpha in the world, but being insanely attracted to him as well. We had a connection that was undeniable, and I wasn’t going to bother denying it. By leaving Litmus, I gained a new family, but most importantly, I gained a new life and a new love; a love I never knew I was capable of having or reciprocating. Through my new life, I was also introduced to more people that I would come to treat as family,” I smiled again, this time looking at all our guests.

These people are all my family.

“But, over and above all, it is you, my mate, who I have to be most thankful for. When I saw you genuinely smile at me for the first time, I was convinced that I would never see anything more beautiful - but then you laughed. The amount of joy in your laughter was felt in every corner of our room, and my body tingled from the sound. It was then that I realized that you are my whole world and that I’m nothing without you. You’ve believed in me and in my abilities every step of the way. You believe in my ability to rule beside you as your Luna, mate, best friend and wife. You love me more than I love myself, and I believe that I love you more than you love yourself. It’s what makes us work,” I said, to which he gave me a knowing look.

“To be honest, you and I are probably the most unlikely pair that people would ever expect, and I wouldn’t blame them for thinking that, but I will be damned if anyone ever questions our love for each other. We’ve both been through enough to know that the love we share is not only real, but that it’s our forever. Anyone can try and tear us apart, but I’m confident that we’ll always find our way back to each other through everything. In that spirit, I stand before everyone today to give myself over to you, not only as your best friend, mate and the mother of your heir or heirs, but as your wife as well. I love you, Mateo Diego Santiago, and I will forever love and treasure you for as long as I’m breathing, and even after then I’ll still love you,” I finished off.

Not caring about anything or anyone, or even the state of my face, Mateo grabbed my face and lay a hot one on me, one that I gladly returned with as much fervor. We were in our own world as the stars and fireworks danced behind my eyes.

I felt like I was floating on a cloud.

“Well, somebody couldn’t wait to get to the end of the ceremony,” Boris teased, bringing us out of our kiss.

“Let’s get to the rings before they feast off of each other,” Mark added, making us all laugh.

Boris stepped up with the rings and handed them to us. I was once again blown away by the beautiful wedding ring that I was receiving. Unlike my flashy engagement ring, this ring was more meaningful.

It’s a platinum band that has two hands which meet to cover a heart, signifying togetherness. The heart is made of diamond, and there’s a band of diamonds below it as well. There was also a crown of diamonds over the heart. I was completely taken with it.

“Do you, Mateo Diego Santiago, take Juniper Lee-Ann Evigan, to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, through sickness and in health, for better or for worse, till death do you part?” Merlin asked my mate.

“I do,” Mateo beamed, sliding the ring onto my finger, which I only realized that I didn’t have my engagement ring.

When had I taken it off?

“And do you, Juniper Lee-Ann Evigan, take Mateo Diego Santiago, to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, through sickness and in health, for better or for worse, till death do you part?” Merlin asked me.

“I do,” I smiled, sliding the plain platinum band onto my mate’s finger.

“Well then, I’m happy to present to you Mr and Mrs Mateo Santiago. You may now kiss the bride,” Merlin chuckled when he realized Mateo had already beaten him to it by kissing me as soon as I said ‘I do’.

Pure jubilation filled every pore of my body. In that moment, I was euphoric about my new title and new last name, and absolutely nothing was going to take that away from me. The kiss I shared with my husband was filled with the love that he feels for me, which I gladly returned.

“So, what’s the step forward?” Mark asked once we’d stopped kissing. The sun had fully risen and it was only then that I noticed that Max had a camera around his neck. He must’ve captured the wedding, which I was grateful for.

“We’re definitely not having a reception,” Mateo commented.

Boris smirked. “We weren’t expecting one.”

“Well, you guys are only due at Litmus at five in the evening and right now it’s six-thirty in the morning. You have about ten hours to yourselves,” Orion told us.

“We have a honeymoon gift for you, so bid your farewells,” Leona smiled.

We said goodbye to everyone before Leona and the King, who I learnt is King Paulo, transported us to our honeymoon destination. When we arrived, I couldn’t believe it. We were, in what seemed like an underwater place. We were in the sea, and we could see the fish and the sea creatures swimming around us.

“Where are we?” I asked in awe.

“You’re in our home in Atlantis. The King and Queen of Atlantis gifted it to us for our alliance with them and the protection we offer them whenever they go onto land,” King Paulo replied.

“Atlantis?” I asked, wide-eyed. I thought it was a myth. By the amused looks on the three other faces with me, I took it that I was the only one who didn’t know about it.

“Yes baby doll, Atlantis is real. We’ll meet the King and the Queen another time. I’ve also got an alliance with them,” my mate told me. I ignored the pang in my chest from the talk of the future.

“This is so cool! Can the fish see us?” I instead asked.

“No! The place has been built so that you can see outside, but any creature outside cannot see in,” Leona replied.

“That’s impressive,” I smiled as I watched some clownfish swim by.

“Well, we’re going to leave you be, and we’ll be back to fetch you at exactly four o’clock. You had better be decent!” King Paulo warned playfully.

Mateo smirked, wrapping his arms around me from the back. “We will not even bother lying to you or filling you with empty promises when there’s a ninety percent chance that we will not be decent.”

“Way to be subtle, babe,” I joked, making the royals laugh.

“Four o’clock guys!” Leona said before they disappeared.

I was finally alone with my mate.

“Mrs Santiago,” he purred on his mark, weakening me instantly. Luckily, he already had his arms around me.

“Who would’ve thought?” I barely managed to say with the kisses he was peppering along my shoulder blades.

“I just couldn’t wait,” he murmured. I was momentarily confused, until I remembered that the idea that he couldn’t wait had been planted into his mind.

“It was a most pleasant surprise,” I moaned when he tugged at his mark.

I could feel him smirking on my skin. “And I promise that it will be most pleasant getting you out of this magnificent creation.”

When he turned me around, I was met by midnight orbs filled with pure, incommunicable lust. I never knew that undressing could be so sensual before. He definitely took his time undressing me, and you can bet that it was most certainly pleasant.

Again, I never knew undressing could be so sensual before.

For the first time since my mating with Mateo, I felt like we truly connected. We were officially one in every way. We were joined in every way. We were mates, best friends and husband and wife. We were even parents; something that he was extremely happy about.

I couldn’t help my tears at the conflicting happiness and sadness I was feeling. I was beyond happy with the very moment I was in and clouded completely in pleasure, but I couldn’t get the sadness out of my mind - not when Mateo kept kissing my stomach. He was so overjoyed about having an heir, and I almost broke.

I almost told him everything.

He took me to the heavens and the Milky Way, until I was sure that I was seeing stars. I saw fireworks and I was soaring. Soon enough, the sadness was completely forgotten as he took me repeatedly until I couldn’t move anymore.

I had NEVER been through such intense carnality before.

“Baby doll, you’ll be the end of me,” he panted, lying beside me.

“Me? You’re the one who’s left me breathless!” I barely got out. He got up so that he was hovering over me, granting me the beautiful sight that was his eyes.

“You’re the one with the pregnancy hormones and the high sexual drive,” he said as he gave me that lazy grin. Unbeknownst to me, it only turned me on some more, despite my limp limbs.

“Baby doll,” he growled, his eyes slowly darkening. I grabbed him and kissed him hard.

“We’re not going another round Mateo. I can barely move,” I giggled on his lips.

“Then stop getting turned on, woman,” he replied before sucking on my bottom lip. The claw marks on his back couldn’t be prevented.

“No!” I attempted to say firmly, only to have it come out as a moan. I didn’t even have the strength to push him off. Fortunately, he received and processed the message. He lay beside me and pulled me into him, the claw marks already healed.

“I could never get enough of you, Mrs Santiago,” he said contently, kissing my forehead.

“Apparently, I can get enough of you, Alpha Santiago,” I teased.

“That’s just the baby saying enough,” he smirked.

“Eeuw! Are you suggesting that we had a threesome with our baby?” I joked. A look of horror struck his face, making me laugh harder.

He glared at me, his brows furrowed. “That’s not what I meant, June!”

“I’m sorry, but I had to take the opportunity,” I said innocently.

“You freak!” he chuckled. I couldn’t help but remember our argument in the car on our way to our date.

I mock glared at him. “Shut up! I’m not the freak.”

His deep chuckle hit every corner of the room we were in. “That’s a strong matter of opinion baby doll!”

“Well yo…” I said before I was shushed.

“Did you hear that?” he whispered.

“Hear wha…” I tried to ask, only to have his hand clamp over my mouth. I was getting furious now.

I watched a million emotions flash through his face before he was suddenly tearful. I had no idea what was going on. He slowly let go of me before going down the bed until he was parallel to my belly. I was even more confused when he leaned in and placed his ear on my belly.

“What are you doing?” I asked, my confusion lacing my words. He looked up at me and my breathing hitched from how perfect he looked in that moment.

“We’re having more than one baby,” he whispered with a smile as one tear escaped his eye. I froze.

“What?” I gasped.

“I can hear two heartbeats baby doll. We’re having twins!” he beamed before kissing me. I was still shocked, despite my responsiveness to his kiss.

“We’re having twins?” I asked dazedly when he pulled away.

“Yes, Mama Santiago, we’re having twins. This is the best wedding present you could’ve ever given me,” he smiled.

“Oh my Goddess! We’re having twins!” I squealed when it finally settled in.

“We are,” he chuckled, as I danced around on the bed. I must’ve looked like a dehydrated seal on land.

“I thought twins didn’t occur with Alphas,” I said, scowling at the sudden realization.

“It’s true that they haven’t occurred in modern times, but they did exist in the first days of werewolves. If I’m not mistaken, our twins will be the first to be born since ninety-three thousand, four hundred and fifty-eight years ago,” he informed me.

“Why do you even know that?” I asked.

“Because I like to read and keep up with everything in my world. It’s one of the things that make me the great Alpha that I am,” he said proudly.

“Look at you, Mr. ‘I Know It All’,” I teased.

He scoffed. “You’re just jealous that you didn’t know that our kids would be awesome!”

I rolled my eyes. “Yes, because that’s totally what it is.”

“I can’t believe fate has blessed me with twins,” he said, the awe evident in his tone.

“You deserve them,” I smiled, cupping his cheek. Suddenly, his expression turned to one of dread.

“What’s wrong?” I panicked.

“Most she-wolves in the past who gave birth to twins rarely made it, and it’s a more painful process. I’m worried about you because werewolves can’t have caesareans and you’re having twin Alphas,” he relayed his worry to me.

I went numb from the news.

“I could die?” I whispered, not even wanting to say it out loud. It was enough that he’d died on me.

I wasn’t ready to die.

I already had to leave him behind.

I couldn’t leave my children behind too.

I just couldn’t!

“I will try my hardest to get the best people on this. I promise that you’re going to live, and so will our kids. You’re a strong and powerful she wolf baby doll. I believe in you,” he encouraged.

Oh, this wonderful man!

How the hell did life expect me to let go of a man who lifts my spirits so? A man who believes that I am a worthy opponent for death, when I’d just watched it win the fight with him the day before? He’s a strong and powerful wolf, but even he couldn’t beat death.

Could I really?

“Are you sure it’s something that can be prevented?” I asked unsurely.

“I’ll make damn sure it is! I’m not losing you or our children June,” he said seriously.

You may not lose us to death, but you’ll definitely lose me.

The thought came before I could even think of stopping it. The truth was a stab to my heart, but there was nothing that I could do about it except enjoy this time with him before I have to leave him. I didn’t want my last memory to be a sad one.

“I believe you babe, and I promise that I’ll help,” I replied instead with a smile.

“That’s the spirit!” he beamed before kissing me.

We spent the next few hours just sitting and talking. We were laughing at stupid things, making funny faces at each other, making love and just enjoying each other’s company away from all the troubles of the world; all the impending sadness of the future.

In that moment, it was just Mr and Mrs Santiago being the newlyweds they deserve to be.

“What time is it?” I asked him.

“It’s two o’clock,” he replied.

“I want to take you somewhere. Do you think that I can get us back here?” I asked him.

He sighed. “I’m sure you can, but where are we going? And do we have to get dressed?”

“You’re that lazy?” I asked.

“Not lazy as much as too relaxed to get dressed,” he defended, laughing.

“Well, I don’t know if it’s safe to go at it commando, but I guess there’s no sin in trying, since this place may not be safe to begin with,” I said thoughtfully.

“I don’t like the sound of that,” he admitted.

I shrugged. “Tough.”

I grabbed his hand and teleported us before he could argue.

Before us was a beautiful waterfall which we were standing behind, since we were in a cave. I grabbed Mateo’s awed self and we walked to the edge of the curve which overlooked the lake. The sun was shining delightfully on the water and creating oodles of glistening sparkles.

The butterflies, the colorful flowers and the colorful birds were decorating the whole scenery, making it look more and more like a mini paradise. Even the trees here just looked too good to be real.

“Where are we?” Mateo asked lowly. It wasn’t even strange that we were standing stark naked at the edge of a cave.

“We’re on Litmus property,” I replied. He nodded before doing a double take after processing my words.

“Did you just say Litmus?” he asked in disbelief.

I giggled. “Yep!”

“Why would you bring us here?” he groaned.

“Because I wanted to share my favorite place with you,” I smiled. He immediately stopped pouting and instead wrapped his arms around me.

“Tell me about it,” he requested softly.

“I used to come here all the time with my best friend when I was younger. It was our favorite place in the entire world, and no one knew about it. We’d come out here in the morning and only leave at sundown. My happiest memories before everything went horribly were spent here,” I told him.

It was true.

While I didn’t have the best childhood, coming here was the best thing. The last time I’d been here was the day before I had to shift and I’d come alone. The place still looked the same, if not more beautiful. It was serene, and that’s what I loved most about it.

“Best friend?” he asked curiously.

I looked up to him. “Would you believe me if I told you I actually don’t remember the person I’m telling you about?”

“So they were an imaginary friend?” he questioned.

“No. He was real, but I don’t remember him. I remember that I had a best friend, and that he was a boy, but I don’t remember anything else. I don’t remember how he looked, what he sounded like or what his name was. I can’t even see him in my memories. I just see his silhouette, although sometimes I think I dream of him,” I replied. Mateo looked like he didn’t believe me for a single second.

“And you’re sure that you didn’t make him up?” he asked dubiously.

I nodded. “I swear on our children’s lives.”

“That’s some strong swearing!” he joked.

I blushed. “Shut up! You know what I mean.”

“Yeah, I do! You’re just too adorable when you blush that I had to see it happen again,” he winked.

I rolled my eyes. “Oh, you’re such a smooth talker.”

“You love it,” he countered.

And I’d miss it.

“So, what do you think?” I asked him. He was about to reply when we heard voices above us. We stilled but luckily the water would hide our scents.

“Is everything prepared for tonight?” an unfamiliar woman’s voice asked.

“Yes! All the Alphas have no clue about what’s going to happen,” a familiar voice replied.

“Royce!” Mateo linked me. I nodded.

“And what of your brother?” the female voice asked.

“He still hasn’t been found,” Royce replied.

“Do you think he went running for help?” a deeper male voice asked. I would know that voice anywhere.

It was my father.

“I doubt it! No one would believe him anyway. He’s the kid whose big brother is getting the Alpha position over him. Besides, even if he wanted to, he would be physically incapable of saying anything to anyone with the spell placed on him,” Royce replied. Mateo and I shared a look of confusion.

Jacob had already been able to tell us everything.

“Must be Marissa’s doing,” he linked me. I nodded since that seemed like the logical explanation.

“And what of Gail?” the female voice asked.

“She’s still clueless and spelled; although I think after nineteen years, the spell needs to be reinforced. It seems to be fading since that thing left my land,” my father replied.

My mom?

Was I the thing being discussed?

“Where is your daughter anyway?” the female voice asked.

Well I guess I am the thing.

“She is not my daughter,” my father growled. I was surprised when I wasn’t even affected by his words.

“Last I heard, she’s in Argentina. Mateo told me she found her mate. He’s a reliable source so I trust him,” Royce informed them.

“Argentina?” I giggled in link to Mateo.

“I can’t believe the idiot actually bought it!” he chuckled in response before we tuned in to the conversation above us.

“Speaking of Mateo, have you arranged for his food and drinks to be poisoned?” the female voice asked.

“Of course! I’ve put the responsibility in one of my most trusted men,” Royce replied proudly.

“Is he still bringing a date?” my father, or I guess I should say Dayton, asked.

“He told me he’s bringing a Luna,” Royce replied.

“That’s not possible! His family is cursed,” the female voice spat.

“Well, that’s what he told me,” Royce said indifferently.

“It must be his chosen mate,” the female concluded.

“They couldn’t be more wrong,” Mateo and I linked each other at the same time before smiling at each other.

“Well, that’s irrelevant. Has her food and drinks also been poisoned?” Dayton asked.

“I’m not stupid,” Royce growled.

“So, is that a yes or a no?” the female voice asked with a hint of amusement.

“It’s a yes, dammit!” Royce said angrily.

“Careful boy! Don’t forget who you’re talking to,” the female voice warned.

“Sorry,” Royce mumbled.

“Do we know who that thing is mated to?” Dayton asked.

“No,” Royce replied.

“You had better find out quickly. She could be mated to an Alpha and come back to ruin our plans,” the female voice advised. Both Royce and Dayton broke out into laughter.

“As if that bitch could be mated to an Alpha,” Royce scoffed. Mateo bit his lip to keep from growling. I kissed him to calm him down.

“Well then, it looks like everything is set. Now we just need to wait for all the Alphas to arrive with their mates and dates. You had better make sure that no one moves that statue from your temple. It has already been prepared for the spell. I will be back with my Mistress in time for the spell,” the female voice said before there was a whooshing sound.

“I don’t like that creature,” Royce commented, sounding like he was walking away.

“Join the club, son,” Dayton said. After that, it was quiet for a while and I decided to take Mateo and I back to the underwater place.

“So, we’re definitely not eating or drinking anything tonight,” I joked.

He instead looked thoughtful. “The weak cowards were going to poison us.”

“At least we got the chance to overhear their plans. To think you thought taking us to Litmus was a bad thing,” I said proudly.

“Alright, I’ll give you this one. So, we need to get rid of that statue,” he said thoughtfully.

“I think we should tell the others first and see what they think of the situation,” I suggested.

“Without a doubt! I was just thinking out loud,” he smiled.

“Babe, what do you think they meant about my mom?” I asked curiously.

“What? About her being spelled?” he asked. I nodded.

“It’s a possibility, and I guess Merlin or Mama Deo would know the difference,” he replied.

“We’ll tell them when we see them I guess,” I sighed.

“Are you okay after what Dayton said?” he asked in concern, pulling me into his cool body as he lay back on the bed.

“I didn’t even flinch,” I admitted.

“So, you’re over it?” he asked in hope.

“Yep!” I smiled.

“Thank the heavens! Besides, you have a better father now anyway,” he pointed out. I knew he was referring to Balthazar.

I beamed. “I love that man.”

“I know you do baby doll,” he chuckled.

“I’m curious about Argentina,” I giggled.

He shrugged. “I made it up on the spot as I was talking to him on the phone. It’s not like this was something I put any thought into.”

I raised an amused eyebrow. “And I found my mate?”

“It’s not like they knew that you couldn’t have a mate then,” he pointed out. It was a good point.

“True! I guess we have quite a lot in store for us tonight. Have the Alphas all been notified of what’s going to happen?” I asked.

“Yeah! We managed to reach them all and explain, so they’ll all be alert. I have a feeling our food won’t be the only food poisoned, so we’ll have to ask Merlin if he can create an illusion that will make us all look like we’re eating, when we’re not really eating,” he thought out loud.

“That would be so cool!” I said more enthusiastically than I intended.

“You’re such a dork, baby doll,” he chuckled.

“What? You’re the bigger dork, dork!” I stuck my tongue out at him, only to have him catch it between his teeth before giving me a searing kiss.

“That was so hot,” I moaned.

“It’s one way to shut you up,” he smirked before kissing me again. We were getting all hot and bothered and just as things were about to kick up, there was a knock at the door I hadn’t even noticed until then.

“Are you decent?” Leona’s voice suddenly asked from outside the room.

“Not even close,” we both laughed before continuing without a care in the world, while I teleported and locked us back in our room.

Thank you Marissa for your awesome powers!