CHAPTER FOURTEEN

 

 

“Oh, my stars! It’s perfect.” Emma clapped excitedly then slapped her hands over her heart, with tears shining in her eyes, just like she had for every other dress Sara had tried on. Only this time she added, “That’s definitely the dress.”

Sara would have rolled her eyes if not for the respect owed her future mother-in-law. Who was she to begrudge the woman’s excitement over her son’s impending nuptials? Besides, truth be told, she would have been excited too, if she wasn’t exhausted from trying on umpteen dresses. Who knew a wedding gown weighed so much?

Sara squared her shoulders and turned to stare at her reflection in the three-way mirror. She sucked in a breath. The dress was…spectacular. She wasn’t the type of woman to wear a strapless gown. She ran a finger along the sweetheart neckline. The sparkling silver lace that covered the bodice and illusion shoulder straps was a perfect touch. The same beautiful lace flowed in artistically placed drips down the dress. The light-as-air A-line tulle skirt fell to the floor in a twinkle of metallic lace. Not too much embellishment to make it gaudy. Just enough to make the dress sparkle each time she moved and added a hint of glamour. She turned left and right. With each tiny movement, the skirt swished and flowed like water around her legs. Sara felt like a fairytale princess in the gown.

“A little overwhelmed by how perfect that dress is? I know I am.”

Emma’s voice pulled her from her thoughts. “I love it. It’s just…”

She shook her head and glanced away. Unable to look Seth’s mother in the eye. Unlike the Le Beaus, Sara didn’t have a ton of money in the bank. “Emma, I can’t afford this.”

Emma clucked her tongue. “Did you really think I brought you here without the intention of paying for the gown?”

“Yes…I mean no. I don’t know.”

Emma giggled, “I know just what you’re feeling right now. I was a bride once myself you know.”

Sara glanced up and gave Emma a sheepish grin.

“Sophia, would you join us for a minute? Sara has chosen a gown, and the hem needs to be adjusted.” Emma waved at the owner of the shop, an attractive older woman. On the way to the boutique, Emma had informed her that Sophia was one of the town’s more powerful witches.

Sophia joined them, smiling broadly at Sara. “Oh, my. That Stella York creation is a show-stopper on you!”

“Thank you.”

Emma touched Sophia’s hand. “We’re going to take it.” She wiggled her fingers like she had at lunch. “Can you do your thing? With the flats she chose it’s a little too long.”

Sophia circled Sara, testing the fit here and there. She spanned Sara’s waist with her hands front and back making approving sounds. Finally, she stepped away and tipped her head. “This rarely happens. Except for the hemline, the fit is perfect.”

Emma erupted with a tiny squeal. “I know, right. I’d swear Sara was the model for this design.”

She glanced at Emma and shook her head. “This is almost too easy.” Sophia stretched out her hands and waved a pattern through the air. Her movements, graceful and beautiful to watch.

The dress rustled, and the extra skirt length evaporated until the fabric was a mere breath from touching the floor. Sara gasped. “Holy cats!”

Sophia gave her a wink. “Just a little minor magic.” She smiled warmly. “I’m so glad you’re taking Seth off the market. He needed a mate more than most. Someone to heal him and make him whole again, you know?”

Emma’s brows pinched and sadness darkened her eyes. “He stayed in the Elite Hunters too long.” Then she gathered herself and smiled. “But he has you now, and everything is right again.”

She clapped her hands together and grabbed her purse. “We need to hurry. There is still so much to do.” Emma shooed Sara into the dressing room to change into her street clothes while she paid for their purchases.

The instant she stepped from the dressing room Emma linked their arms together. “Come on new daughter. We have a cake and flowers to order.”

Sara read the bakery’s name aloud, “Tracy’s Tasty Treats.” She hoped the cake lived up to the name.

Emma brushed her fingers in the air, shooing her from the car. They met on the sidewalk, and she leaned in to whisper, “A vampire owns this.”

Sara’s brows rose. “Vampires are real?”

Her eyes glittered with pleasure. “Of course. And this vampire owes me a favor. You’ll meet many of the locals at the wedding. Faeries too.”

Sara stared at Emma for a second as her mind tried to wrap around that tidbit of information.

“C’mon, pokey. We don’t have time to stand around daydreaming.”

Emma took her arm and hustled her to the counter. “Hello, Tracy. How are you today?”

A willowy woman with flame red hair and a smattering of freckles, who looked more like Pippi Longstockings than a vampire, grinned at them. “Hey, Miss Emma. What brings you into my little bakery?”

“Seth is getting married to this lovely young lady. Tracy, this is my soon to be daughter-in-law Sara.”

Tracy offered her hand, and Sara shook it. “Hi, Sara. Congratulations.”

“Hello, and thank you.” She expected Tracy to feel cold or clammy. She was wrong. Tracy’s hand was soft and warm to the touch.

Emma glanced around the shop and pointed to a classic three-tiered wedding cake displayed. “We would love to have you bake the wedding cake.”

Tracy grabbed her order form and a pen. “How many people are you expecting?”

“Three hundred.”

Sara stiffened. Three hundred people? Strangers? That was terrifying.

“I can swing that. Are you looking for something classic or artistic? As long as I have enough time, I can create anything you can dream up.”

Emma bit her lip. “We need this cake by Saturday.”

Tracy’s head jerked up. She leaned forward and narrowed her eyes. “It sounded like you said Saturday.”

Emma crossed her arms. “That’s because I did.”

Tracy’s face screwed up like she’d sucked on a lemon. “Crud. I was really looking forward to creating a masterpiece. A classic tiered cake with sheet cakes to cover the number of servings required will have to do. What about cake flavor and icing colors?”

Emma glanced at Sara for input.

Sara shrugged. “Flavor and icing are completely up to you. Since this is last minute, do whatever is easiest.”

Tracy looked skeptical. “You’re sure about that?”

Sara glanced at the mouth-watering selections in the display case. “You do beautiful work. I leave the decisions up to you.”

Emma dug in her purse for her credit card. “What do I owe you?”

“Not a penny. It’s my wedding gift to Seth and Sara.” Tracy shivered. “I still owe Seth for saving me from that rogue when I was a child.”

Emma pressed a hand to her heart. “That’s right, I forgot about that. You were almost a tasty treat for the beast.”

Tracy grimaced. “Don’t remind me.”

Emma patted Tracy’s hand. “Thank you.”

“Yes, thank you for doing this at the last minute,” Sara said.

Tracy shrugged. “I’m happy to do it. I assume you want it delivered to the plantation?”

“Yes. Can you have it there by noon?”

“Absolutely.”

Emma thanked her again and hustled Sara out the door. “One more stop. The florist. And as luck would have it the shop is next door.”

The intoxicating scent of blooming flowers and houseplants filled Sara’s nose. She followed Emma to the back counter and waited to see what kind of magic her mother-in-law would work this time.

A pretty woman of around fifty came from the backroom wiping her hands on a towel. “Why, Emma Le Beau, as I live and breathe. What brings you in, cher?”

“Hello, Susan. This is my soon to be daughter-in-law Sara. She’s marrying Seth. I need wedding flowers. The works!”

“My goodness! Seth? Married? Congratulations, Sara.”

“Thank you.”

“So what do you like? Roses? Carnations? Lilies? Or do you just have a color scheme?”

Sara looked at Emma. “Um...”

Emma took the hint and stepped in. “We were thinking traditional red roses.”

“Perfect. I love the classics. How many bouquets and boutonnieres?”

“Well, there’s Seth, Richie, and two fathers. So, four men. Then there’s me and Sara’s mother as well.”

Susan scribbled notes as fast as Emma spoke. “One bridesmaid?”

“Yes.”

“And would you like a traditional bridal bouquet with the roses, ivy, and baby’s breath trailing down or more of a round style?”

Sara considered that. “I think the round style would be easier to handle.”

“Excellent. I’ll also make a smaller version for you to throw. Now, what about decorations?”

“We would like something for the end of each row of chairs.” Emma counted on her fingers to herself. “Twenty of those. Also, altar flowers, cake table decoration, and roses for the arbor.”

Susan finished writing and tapped the pen on her chin. “Anything else?”

“Yes. We need them Saturday by eleven a.m.”

Susan’s eyes widened. “Give me a minute to check the cooler. My next delivery isn’t until Monday.” She took off into the back room and returned a few minute’s later. “I have just enough red roses to do the order.”

“Perfect. Put that on my account.”

“Will do. Congratulations again, Sara.”

“Thank you.”

“See you Saturday, Emma.”

“See you then, Susan. Thank you.”

Emma started the car and headed for home. “See, that wasn’t so bad.”

Sara chuckled and shook her head. “You’re right it wasn’t.”

 

 

Sara yawned, stretched, and sighed. She hadn’t slept a wink. The bed felt empty without her wolfman beside her and thoughts of her wedding day kept her up all night. The craziness of planning was over. After today she could start her new life with Seth.

She rolled over and checked the alarm clock and groaned. Seven a.m. Might as well get up. She needed coffee. Lots and lots of coffee. She turned her nose into the sleeve of Seth’s T-shirt and inhaled. She had missed him so much, she'd raided his closet for a shirt she could use as pajama's. His scent was comforting and calmed her nerves. Every inhalation reminded her why she’d put up with the insanity of the last three days.

She glanced at the kitchen clock. It was still early yet, and she had hours before she had to get ready for the wedding. There was plenty of time to take a run. A little fresh air would go a long way in clearing her head.

An hour later, Sara shifted to human form and slid the patio doors open.

“Where have you been!”

Sara rocked back on her heels. What was going on? She searched her memory for an appointment she’d forgotten. She couldn’t think of a thing. “I went for a run. Why?”

Emma threw her hands in the air. “A run! On the morning of your wedding?” She shook her head and shooed Sara toward the bedroom. “Hurry up and get changed, we have appointments in an hour for hair, nails, and makeup.”

What? Hair and makeup? She thought she’d do that herself. She tossed the T-shirt into the laundry basket and hurried to dress. Suck it up buttercup. Put a smile on your face and make your mother-in-law happy.

What are you mumbling about, mon amour? I can tell my mother to leave you alone if she’s bothering you.

She sighed and pulled on socks. No, I’m fine. Please don’t say anything to her.

Alright, if you’re sure.

I am.

I missed you last night.

I missed you too. I can’t wait until I see you again.

Just look for the guy in a monkey suit standing at the altar. That’ll be me.

Sara laughed. I’ll do that. I better get going, or your mother is going to come looking for me.

I love you, Sara.

I love you too. Have a good day, and I’ll see you at the altar.

I can’t wait.

 

 

Sara blew out a breath. Emma had hustled her into Cade and Anna’s house and the worst of the day was over. She looked longingly at the garment bag that held her dress. She couldn’t wait to put it on and marry the man she loved. She rolled her eyes as she thought back to her unexpected morning. The instant her backside hit the salon chair she’d been swarmed by women in what looked like lab coats. The process was tiring, but the results spoke for themselves. Her hair was up with a few tendrils around her face in soft curls, her toenails and fingernails polished, and her makeup done so much better than she could have managed. Come to think of it the salon visit hadn’t been so bad.

“Come on, baby sister. Let’s get you into your dress. It’s so pretty. I can’t wait to see what it looks like on.”

Sara held her hands up while Dianne carefully eased the gown over her head and zipped it up. She smoothed the skirt and turned to face Dianne. “What do you think?”

Dianne clapped a hand over her mouth, her eyes the size of saucers. “You’re beautiful.”

“Thank you.” Sara spun a little circle. “Isn’t it gorgeous?”

“That is the prettiest wedding dress I’ve ever seen, and it looks great on you. Now I wish I’d had a wedding.”

“You still can you know. There’s no statute of limitations on getting married after you’re mated.”

Dianne stared at the wedding gown longingly. “Yeah, maybe.”

Emma sorted through the mountain of makeup on the dressing table like a mad woman. She looked like a badger digging a hole to China.

Sara couldn’t help but laugh. “What on earth are you looking for?”

“Lipstick. I bought a tube of the shade they used at the salon. It’s stunning with your coloring and matches the roses in your bouquet to perfection. I know it’s here somewhere.”

“Maybe you left it in the car or something? It could have fallen out of your purse.”

Emma straightened. Hands on hips she glared to the makeup now scattered across the table. “Perhaps. I’ll check and be right back. Dianne, would you be a dear and check on the orchestra. Make sure they have sheet music and have warmed up.”

“Sure.”

With Dianne and Emma occupied, Sara had a minute to herself. She closed her eyes and sighed. Peace and quiet. There had been precious little of it over the past few days. She turned to survey her reflection and sucked in a breath as her hand went to her neck. Dang it, she forgot the jewelry she’d purchased especially for the wedding.

“Please don’t be distressed. I have just the thing for you.”

Sara spun around, the tulle layers of wedding dress twisting around her legs. She reached for her service weapon out of habit. Dang, she didn’t have her gun with her. “Who are you and how did you get in here?”

“I’m a very good friend of Seth’s, and if you would allow me to help, I have a necklace and earrings that would look perfect with that incredible gown. Something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue and all that. These will cover the old and the blue items.” The woman held out an ornate wooden box. “Please. Let me do this for you. It would hurt my feelings if you said no.”

Sara took the box without breaking the woman’s gaze. She couldn’t put her finger on it, but something about this woman set off her alarms. She lifted the lid and glanced into the box. Her eyes bugged out. “Are these real?”

“Of course. I would never offer anything less to Seth’s mate.”

“But these must cost a fortune!” Between the blue star sapphire teardrops and brilliant round diamonds that ran the length of the necklace and earrings, the value was immeasurable. The diamonds alone must be over thirty carats. She closed the box and held it out. “Thank you for the thought, and I hate to hurt your feelings, but this is too much. I’m sorry. I can’t accept these.”

The woman waved off Sara’s shock like she gave priceless jewelry away every day and held her hands up refusing to take the box. “The gift has been given. They belong to you now. Come, put on the earrings and then if you will turn around, I’ll help you with the necklace.”

Sara gaped at the woman.

“Please. I owe Seth more than I can ever repay. These trinkets are but a drop in the bucket as far as my jewels are concerned.”

Trinkets? That set of jewels was trinkets! Who was this woman?

The woman sighed and crossed her arms. “I don’t ever have this much trouble with anyone else. I won’t accept them back so you might as well wear them.”

Sara stared at her for a long second. It was apparent from the set of her shoulders and expression on her face the woman wasn’t going to back down, and she was too exhausted from a sleepless night to fight. With an unladylike harrumph, she set the box aside and pick up the earrings. When they were securely in place on her ears, she held out the necklace and turned.

The woman slipped the necklace around her neck and fastened it. “There. See, the set is perfect with the neckline of your gown.”

Sara ran a finger down the line of tiny diamonds and large sapphires that made up the chain to the monster-sized teardrop that lay just above her cleavage. “They’re beautiful. Thank you so much…” That was when she realized the woman hadn’t given her name. She glanced into the mirror expecting to see the woman in the reflection, but she wasn’t there. Sara spun around, her gaze ping-ponging around the room. What the...? The woman was gone.

Sara was still trying to figure out what happened when Emma returned.

“Why, cher. You look like you’ve seen a ghost. Whatever is the matter?”

“I think I did.”

Emma sucked in a breath and slapped a hand over her mouth. “Where did those jewels come from?”

“The ghost or whatever she was gave them to me. I tried to refuse them, but she wouldn’t take them back.” She narrowed her eyes at her soon to be mother-in-law. “Why?”

“That set of priceless jewelry belongs to the Goddess. They could only have come from her.”

Sara sank into a chair. “Are you telling me I just met Luperca? And she put the necklace on me herself?”

“That’s exactly what I’m telling you. But you don’t understand the significance of that meeting.”

Sara groaned. “I hate to ask, but what?”

“Your marriage has been blessed by the Goddess. By giving you a piece of her personal jewelry, she blessed your union. Those stones hold tremendous power. All of her jewels do.”

“What kind of power?”

Emma shrugged. “I don’t know, but I’m sure at some time in the future when you need it most, you’ll find out.”

Sara chewed her lower lip. “Don’t say anything to Seth about this. He’s not a fan of Luperca right now.”

Emma patted Sara’s arm. “I think that would be wise. We’ll keep the source of them our little secret. Now, about that lipstick. You were right. It had fallen to the floor of the car.”

 

 

Seth smiled and reached for the tuxedo jacket. He was marrying his mate today. The woman he never dreamed he would have. Two days ago, his father, Isaac surprised him with a custom tailored tuxedo insisting he would have occasions to wear it again. He prayed that wasn’t true. Pulling the jacket on, he checked his reflection in the mirror and smiled. Not bad for a monkey suit.

Very nice, but you could use a tail, Fang teased.

Don’t even try it, furball.

Fang chuffed a laugh and settled at the front of Seth’s mind.

Seth glanced toward the door. The boys were making quite a racket. Sara’s parents, Ben and Vanessa Adams, as well as her sister Dianne and her mate, Don, flew in the night before. Ben and Don and were hanging with his father and brothers in the great room. Having the time of their lives by the sound of it.

He and the rest of the menfolk were confined to the main house. His mother had babbled something about, not seeing the bride before the wedding. Which in his mind was ridiculous. He’d already seen every delectable inch of his mate. But all of the Le Beau men had learned long ago to never cross Emma. So here they were, holed up in his parent’s home. At least there was a game room with a bar to keep them occupied.

He joined them as Stefan sauntered to the bar. “I could really use another drink. Anyone else need a fresh one?”

There were several “I do’s” that rang out above the crack of pool balls.

Simon headed toward the kitchen. “I’ll find us something to eat. Breakfast was ages ago.”

“See if you can find pretzels,” Marcus yelled.

Seth glanced at the clock. Eleven. Any minute someone would come to collect them and Sara would be his bride.

Cade clapped him on the back. “There’s the grinning groom! Hey guys, the sacrificial lamb has seen fit to join us.”

Seth scowled. “There’s nothing sacrificial about marrying Sara. I’m one hell of a lucky man.”

Don offered him a glass of whiskey. “Good answer, son.”

“Thank you, sir.” He glanced around the room. “It looks like everyone is ready. Has anyone heard from Momma?”

Isaac shook his head. “Not A peep. The women like to take their time, but she’ll come get us soon enough.”

“Is everyone ready?” Emma called as she opened the front door.

Isaac met her as she swept into the game room and pulled her into his arms for a kiss. “Speak of the devil, here she is. I’ve missed you, my dear.”

Emma kissed the tip of Isaac’s nose. “I can see that. Gentlemen for those of you who haven’t met the Justice of the Peace, allow me to introduce the honorable Judge Tibadou.”

Seth stepped forward and offered his hand. “It’s an honor to meet you, sir.”

“This is my son Seth, the groom,” Emma said in introduction.

“For me as well. You have a splendid day for a wedding. The sun is shining, the temperature is perfect, and there’s a nice breeze to keep the bugs away. Unusual for this time of year, but welcome all the same.”

Seth grinned. “Yes. I’m relieved that the weather has cooperated.” Little did the judge know, Seth had a hand in the unseasonably nice weather.

Emma pulled Isaac toward the door. “Shall we get this show on the road?” She glanced back at Sara’s father. “Don, I will need you to come with me. Seth, you and Richie can take your places at the head of the gathering.”

Seth fidgeted with his tie. He didn’t like being the center of attention. Though, if it meant Sara would be his wife as well as his mate, he could tolerate a few minutes in front of a couple hundred people.

Stop messing with it, Fang growled. You can take it off after the ceremony.

I feel like I’m choking.

Pff, it’s all in your mind. Fang took a deep breath. Leave the tie alone. Our mate is coming.

Seconds later, his father escorted his mother through the rose-covered archway that Sara would soon walk through. Seth smiled at his parents and then stared at the empty arbor. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw his father nod to the small orchestra hired to play for the ceremony. Then a traditional wedding march began to play.

His mother gave him a wink and mouthed, You’ve got this.

He went back to staring at the archway and held his breath. Any moment now his beautiful Sara would come into view.

Seth stood a little straighter when Dianne appeared. She was pretty but couldn’t hold a candle to his Sara.

The music changed tempo, and Don stepped through the arbor with Sara on his arm. He couldn’t take his eyes off her. Couldn’t breathe. His mate was a vision of beauty as she walked toward him on her father’s arm. Tears of joy welled in his eyes. This gorgeous creature was his.

Peace filled his heart, this woman—this future–—was his reward for a century and half of service to Luperca and the shifter race. From this moment forward his loyalty and love belonged to his mate alone and if so blessed, his children and grandchildren. His only responsibility—to protect and love the family he formed this day. Tranquility wrapped around his soul as his heart swelled with the emotion of the moment.

Seth was…beyond words. So handsome he took her breath away. His black tuxedo fit him like a glove. His incredible physique filled it out to perfection. Her gaze jumped to his eyes glowing with happiness, as she was sure hers were.

He stared at her as though he wanted to eat her up. Which he probably did. Stark love brightened his eyes and softened his masculine features. So much so, the intensity of his emotions affected hers and started a flutter in the region of her heart. She felt just as strongly about him. Her man. Her mate. And soon, her husband.

The crowd of well-wishers faded away until only the two of them existed. She held his gaze. This man belonged to her.

He glanced at her necklace. His eyes narrowed, and he cocked his head as if asking her where it came from. She would tell him later. That was a tale better told in private.

Sara stifled a giggle when Richie gave Seth a little nudge, and whispered, “Go get her.”

He shook his head like he was clearing cobwebs, then stepped forward and gave her father a slight bow.

Judge Tibadou cleared his throat. “Who gives this woman to be wed?”

“Her mother and I do,” Don said. Then he kissed Sara’s cheek and wiped away a tear as he placed her hand in Seth’s.

She clasped his hand, welcoming the connection and his assistance climbing the stairs up to the dais. There was so much dress she feared tripping on it.

“You take my breath away, mon amour.”

Sara smiled in response.

The judge cleared his throat and began, “We have gathered today to celebrate the love and joining of Sara and Seth. They committed themselves to one another by completing the mating ritual and now profess that commitment publicly.”

“Their marriage represents more than the union of the heart and body and of soul. It also represents one more link between the shifter community and humanity.”

“Seth and Sara stand before you as a beacon of hope to all fellow shifters still in search of their destined mate. To that end, they have asked me to implore you to never lose hope. With that said, they ask those present to voice their pledge to continue their search until they also find their other half. What say you?”

Every single shifter in attendance responded with, “I will.”

The judge smiled and gave them a nod before turning to Seth. “Seth, do you take Sara to be your wife and your mate. To protect and cherish her? And to always put her health and happiness before your own?”

Seth gazed intently into Sara’s eyes. “I do.”

Judge Tibadou turned slightly. “Sara, do you take Seth to be your husband and your mate. To honor and cherish him? And to always put his health and happiness before your own?” Her eyes gleamed brightly with love and happy tears. “I do.”

The judge smiled and turned his attention to Richie. “May I have the rings please?”

The crowd chuckled when Richie patted his pockets obviously pretending to have lost the rings. Finally, he dug them out of his inner jacket pocket and handed them over.

The judge held up the rings for all to see. “Let these rings be a symbol for all to see of your seamless and unending love and commitment to one another that no outside force can break.”

He placed Sara’s ring into Seth’s open palm. “Repeat after me. With this ring, I take you as my wife and mate, to love, honor, cherish, and protect all the days of my life.”

Seth repeated the words as he slipped the ring onto her finger.

The judge handed Seth’s ring to Sara. “Repeat after me. With this ring, I take you as my husband and mate, to love, honor, cherish, and protect all the days of my life.”

She spoke the words as she placed the ring on his finger

Judge Tibadou smiled. “By the power and authority vested in me according to the laws of the great state of Louisiana, I pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.”

Seth wrapped her in his arms and kissed her to within an inch of her life. The crowd laughed and cheered. When they didn’t come up for air, someone yelled, “Get a room!”

Seth grinned. “I think they want us to stop kissing and get the party started.”

“Who cares, kiss me one more time. They can wait a little longer.”

“Yes, ma’am.” Finally, he broke the kiss, took her hand, and they turned to face the crowd.

The judge held his hands up for silence. “Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Mr. and Mrs. Le Beau.”

Seth helped her from the makeshift altar and didn’t stop when they reached the end of the aisle. He escorted her all the way to the tables where a dinner and dance would be held. The guest could follow at their leisure.

The pack gathering doubled as their wedding reception. A huge wedding cake dominated the buffet table, and waiters were offering champagne glasses to the guests.

Seth raised his glass and toasted his bride. “To the most beautiful woman in the world.”

“To the most handsome man in the world.” Sara laughed and clinked her glass to his.

 

 

Forty-five minutes later, with their dinner eaten and several speeches made, Seth took Sara’s elbow and led her to the multi-tiered cake. He leaned in and kissed her neck. “I’ll take care not to mess up your gown.” He forked up a small bite and fed her carefully. Then kissed away the tiny bit of frosting clinging to her lip.

Flashes went off, blinding him for a second as a number of guests took pictures.

“I’ll be careful as well.” Sara tucked a napkin under his chin and gave him a mischievous grin. Then laughed as she pushed a small bite into his mouth.

He audibly groaned. If she kept looking at him like that he would drag her from the party long before they could properly say goodnight. Shifter weddings can go well into the night and tonight’s would end in a pack run with the best man leading the way alongside the bride and groom.

Once the guests were seated with cake and coffee or other beverage, Isaac bounded onto the stage. “Ladies and gentlemen, please give me your attention. We have an important visitor who would like to address you.”

Whispers of speculation filled the air, but everyone did as they were asked.

Gasps and exclamations of wonder rumbled through the crowd as a woman of indescribable beauty shimmered into being next to Isaac. “Thank you, Isaac. Many of you know of me, but only a few have had the privilege of interacting with me. I am the entity you refer to as the Goddess Luperca.”

Another round of gasps and exclamation rang out. Luperca waited patiently as Isaac raised his hands for silence.

“Over Seth’s tenure in my service, he and I talked often. I revealed to him the true origin of the shifters and their reason for being. He convinced me that it is every shifters right to know what he has learned. Thus I have appeared to you today. The tale of your creation that you pass down from generation to generation holds many truths but is not the full story. Yes, I created the first shifters, but I am not a Goddess. I am a tenth density being from another realm that has the capacity to create other beings. I would say I’m from another planet, but I don’t claim a specific location, rather I exist in many. For comparison’s sake, I will tell you that in your present incarnation you are fourth density.

“I say your present incarnation because in actuality you are sixth density beings from the Sirius system who have agreed to incarnate in your present form in the hopes of finding your mate among Earth’s population. Finding a mate among the inhabitants of your home system has become problematic. I won’t go into details, but suffice it to say a nefarious source scattered your mates across several planets in an attempt to exterminate you. When I learned that a large majority of lost mates were sent to Earth, I devised a plan in which each of you could voluntarily incarnate for one lifetime on Earth and search for your mate. Another thing you have not been told is if you are fortunate enough to locate your mate and perform the ritual, when your life on Earth ends you will return to your planet of origin with your mate and reincarnate together in your natural forms.”

Mumbling whispered through the crowd.

Luperca smiled lovingly upon her people. “I hear your concern. Those who have yet to find their mate, fear that after this lifetime they will return to their home planet alone. I would never doom you to such a bleak existence. If you are among the unfortunate, you will have the option to return to Earth again or reincarnate on one of the other planets where mates were scattered. As a matter of fact, some of you are on your second or third lifetime on Earth.”

“If I may be so bold to ask? Why don’t we remember any of this?” a man called from the audience.

“The downside of incarnating outside your home system is you come into being without a memory of past lives. I’m not sure why the one true source of all made that so, but there is no way around it. Now, I must go. But first I give heartfelt congratulations to Seth and Sara. May you have a long and happy life together. I bless each and every one of you. Blessed be.”

Luperca faded from view, and the crowd erupted in conversation. Isaac took up a microphone to be heard over the din. “If I could have your attention again I have something to say.” He waited for everyone to quiet down. “I know that was a lot to digest. But what I want you to remember is, Luperca promised to continue to assist anyone who has not found their mate. She will not leave you without hope. Continue your quest for that one person meant to complete you and know it is not in vain. A testament to that is the three new couples who have found their mates among the guests in attendance.”

The crowd erupted in cheers and shouts of congratulation.

“Now, let’s not forget why we are here. We are celebrating Seth and Sara’s marriage. I believe it’s time for the happy couple’s first dance.”

Isaac hopped from the stage as the band struck up a slow romantic song and Seth led Sara to the dance floor.

 

 

Two hours later, with the bridal bouquet and garter tossed, the reception was winding down. As Seth’s best man, Richie had the honor of leading the pack run to celebrate the happy couple.

Standing on the stage, he waited for the crowd to quiet before he began. “We have been twice blessed tonight. For the first time in history Luperca as appeared to us and given us new hope. She has also seen fit to bless Seth with an incredible woman. A woman of strength and bravery befitting an Elite hunter. Let us raise our glasses in a toast to Seth and Sara.”

As one, everyone shouted the traditional shifter toast, “To Seth and Sara. May they live a long and happy life together.”

In a long-held tradition, every emptied glass was then thumped on the tabletops three times.

Once the crowd quieted again, Richie held up his right arm. The instant he dropped it to his side, every wolf in the place shifted. Wolves of every size and color stood where their human form had been.

With a yip, Richie’s solid black wolf swished its tail and leapt to the ground, then raced around the stage. With Seth and Sara running alongside him, Richie led the pack to the forest. An eerie chorus of yips and howls drifted through the night air as hundreds of wolves faded into the forest and disappeared from sight.