Matthew's aura was intoxicating me every minute we spent walking around the castle with one of the staff. The moment the ferry anchored to the private dock at the back of the castle, King Aiden was swarmed with different officials. All of them trying to catch him up on different issues in the Kingdom. Ezra took his side, trying to help him sift through everything. Incidentally, Matthew and I got a few dirty looks, but we ignored them.

King Aiden was able to briefly excuse himself, smiling at us. "I'll have my staff take you to one of our guest rooms. I have some work to attend to but feel free to make yourselves at home. I'm sure Matthew remembers a decent amount."

"I'll give you a tour, gorgeous." Matthew winked at me. Except I could tell full well he didn't want to "give me a tour" just yet. A lustful glint behind his gaze said it all.

Sure enough, while we're being led down the incredible hallways—magnificently enormous and full of paintings or expensive trinkets—Matthew couldn't keep his hands off me. His hand would linger on my lower back, grip my hand, or occasionally lay on my ass. He was so discreet about it that the staff didn't notice. But I did—and it was sending all sorts of butterflies and tingles through my body.

The moment the doors closed behind us, Matthew practically ravished me. He picked me up, throwing me over his shoulder as he walked us to the massive bed in the center of the room. I didn't have much time to really look at the guest room because his lips were on me. Kissing me hungrily while his hands moved across every inch of my body.

Every instinct in me was craving him. Yearning for him and pulled like magnet. A slight desperation in our movements as we realize we finally get to have one another. We don't have to worry about anything anymore. We can relish and succumb to our desires without anyone ever pulling us apart.

Small smiles and giggles as we hurriedly got under the covers. Our clothes quickly ending up on the ground. And for the next few hours we didn't leave. Fervently worshiping one another—physically and emotionally. Matthew took his time—being so delicate yet teasing. He savored every inch of me like he was the desert and I'm the long-awaited for rain.

To my surprise, he let me take the lead. Climbing on top of Matthew, I can't stop staring into his green eyes. Adoring and sinful while I move my hips against his—slow at first. Until our desperation encouraged me to go faster and harder. Matthew's eyes turning black alongside my own. Our moans and breaths being lost into the chill air. Goddess, my wolf and I have never felt so good.

I collapse against Matthew, a small layer of sweat covering the both of us as I roll to his side. Matthew pulls me into his arms, purrs vibrating off of him as he kisses the side of my head. I place my hand on his chest, running small circles against it as our breathing slows down.

"When we get home," I tell him with a little gleam. "We're not leaving our room for like a week."

Matthew let's out a full laugh. Squeezing me close into his side as our naked bodies mold together. He nuzzles his face into my neck, taking deep breaths. "I best be careful then," He grabs my hand, putting it in front of us. His eyes twinkling with delight as he can't stop touching me.

"What do you mean?"

"You're too irresistible, gorgeous." Matthew smiles deviously. Bringing my hand to his lips for a small kiss, "I might get my band sooner than we expect."

My heart starts pounding my chest. I bite my lip, this is my chance. My opening to tell him. I hadn't considered that Matthew wouldn't want pups. Actually, I've been overly excited to tell him. But in this moment, a small tinge of dread creeps up in the pit of my stomach. There's still a chance—a small minuscule possibility—that Matthew won't be happy.

I prop my head on hand, letting my elbow elevate me slightly over his face. Giving him a kind smile, "You want to start a family soon?"

"No." Matthew's words hitting me suddenly, he brushes his finger across my cheek. "I want to start a family when you're ready."

I lick my lips, "But you've thought of it?"

"Every day." Matthew's eyes warming, "For the last few weeks it's all I dream about actually."

He shifts slightly to his side, his hand trialing down my rib cage gently. Our little pillow talk making me warm. I'm sure he can feel my bliss through my aura.

"I've always wanted to name my kids after my favorite book characters." Matthew tells me, "You'll see some names circled in my library."

I knew exactly what he was referring to. Sometimes when I'm skimming through his collection, I'll randomly open a book and he'll have notes in it. Some notes are educational or his thoughts. He'll underline his favorite quotes or circle his favorite words. There are a few books where he consistently kept circling names.

"Which are your favorite?" I egg him on. My wolf banging in my head to tell him.

"Holden from Catcher in the Rye. That's my all-time favorite name—not necessarily the character. But...Holden Vale. Sounds like an Alpha name, doesn't it?"

I bite my tongue, my cheeks hurting from the smiles. His eyes looking down between us at the sheets as a warm smile spreads on his lips while he continues. "I like Hawkins from Treasure Island. But maybe we should add Darcy to the list. Knowing that Pride and Prejudice is symbolic to both of us. Unless you don't like any of these suggestions."

I shake my head, giving him a warm smile. I delicately maneuver myself so I'm lying on my back, turning my head to face him. Smoothly placing his hand on my stomach but he doesn't give it much thought, "I love all of them. But they're all boy names."

"Emma," Matthew smiles. His thumb drawing circles on my stomach almost subconsciously. "Because well...Jane Austen is a classic. Let's see...I like March. To represent all of the Little Women."

His eyes sparkle brightly for a moment at a thought. Then meet mine. "With our forbidden love story, we'll have to add Juliet to the list."

"Juliet?"

"Yeah." His eyebrows furrow in absolute wonderment. The idea warming up to him quickly. "I rather like that. Little baby Juliet."

I can feel myself glowing. Feel happy tears prick my eyes at the thought of Matthew with a little baby girl. Remembering him playing in a band with her. Seeing our boys that we'll have a few years from now. Matthew meets my eyes, curiosity stumbling across his expression.

"What is it?" He asks when he see's my eyes pool with tears. A small surge of concern crossing his beautiful face. Until I press my hand against his. His eyes trail down to my stomach, eyebrows raising as I watch the recognition cross him.

He lets out a breath that neither of us realized he was holding. His green eyes sparkling as they look back at me. An incredible smile spreading on his lips, as his voice comes out small in awe. "Really?"

I nod enthusiastically, brushing a strand of his hair away from his eyes. "It's why Aiden didn't want to separate us. I'm...pregnant."

Matthew's eyes start to water, and I can't help it. Seeing him so emotional and happy—his aura glowing. I feel a small tear brush down my cheek. He quickly wipes it away with the pad of his thumb. Holding my face still, pressing his forehead to mine.

"I'm getting my band?" He can't contain it and laughs once I nod my head.

In a swift move, Matthew pounces on me in a hug. His arms squeezing me close to his chest as our laughs fill the air. I can feel his wolf purring—my own trying to surface with glee. He starts peppering me with kisses—the excitement so evident. His enthusiasm contagious.

"Oh Mia," Matthew beams. "You're going to be all pregnant and round and gorgeous. So...so...gorgeous."

---

We spent a whole day in the palace. Sharing our dinner together with King Aiden, who congratulated us for the first time, verbally anyways. Of course, Matthew and I were in a different world. Our wolves purring contently—unable to come from the incredible high that we're feeling.

It wasn't until the next day—around the afternoon—that I felt something inside me snap. It didn't hurt as much as I expected it to. Almost like a large rubber band had hit me in the heart but it wasn't...painful. My wolf and I instantly knew what it meant. Our tether to Bren was officially cut. A part of me feels guilty knowing what it cost him, but I'll forever be grateful for it.

By the evening, Matthew was called to step out. We were walking through the palace gardens which were still incredibly beautiful in the winter. With flora that still sprouts under the cold circumstances.

"Alpha Matthew," Ezra's voice catching our attention. "The King has requested your audience."

"Just me?" Matthew raises his eyebrow.

"Yes." For the first time since I've met him, Ezra smiles at me. "Don't worry, it's surprise. I'll come grab you in a second."

Matthew kisses my hand, following after Ezra. To my surprise, they strike a friendly conversation—Matthew asking how Ezra's mate is. And they discuss some politics I don't know about. I turn back to the garden, keeping my hand on my stomach happily. I feel like I'm on cloud nine. Strolling to the edge of the garden, I look over the small stone railing. The Kingdom just below. A small breeze hitting my senses as it carries salt water and spices.

Do you think we'll be a good mom? My wolf asks me.

I can't help it and smile, Yeah. I think we'll be amazing.

The thought of raising our kids' reading books. Watching them run through the university's campus. I close my eyes and see them playing instruments with Matthew. Laughing with him as they try to get the chords right.

I think of our closest friends and how thrilled they'll be. Knowing that Tyler will watch over them whenever Matthew and I want to spend time together. Realizing that Sage and Clara are going to adore them like their own. I can imagine it'll even warm River's cold heart. The entire pack is going to love Juliet.

"Helen." I hear King Aiden's voice call to me. I turn over my shoulder, giving him a small smile. He's wearing his royal attire only this seems much more casual. His banded crown across his forehead, but the shirt he's wearing is much looser than normal.

"Your Majesty." I bow politely which causes him to smile.

Aiden comes to my side, extending his arm for me to take. Linking our arms together, we walk slowly through the gardens. There's a tad glint of excitement behind his golden gaze. "I want to gift you something."

"I'm waiting for Ezra," I tell him with a raised eyebrow as he walks me back towards the castle.

"No," Aiden grins. "You're waiting for me. Come."

King Aiden leads me through the castle. Every time we walk by someone, they instantly showcase their respect by stopping what their doing to bow. I'm used to Alpha's commanding power, but I've never seen people curtsey or drop what they're doing. We stop in front of a set of large doors. King Aiden pushes them open and waves a hand inside.

"I'll wait for you here," He says with a kind smile.

I peer inside and to my astonishment I realize there's a massive array of gowns and jewels. With wide eyes, I stare at King Aiden who shrugs, "Some of our royal collection."

I try not to get too much in my head. I've always liked shopping, but this is overwhelming. There are dresses that glitter, some that shimmer, and many that are just too drop-dead gorgeous for me to wear. There are one's that look regal with long draping capes that drag on the ground. Other's that look like they're used for battle or hunting. More importantly, it's only the women's clothing. I can't imagine how many more of these rooms there are in the castle.

That one, my wolf howls at a pretty dress. Simple—with the shoulder straps pulls down. Not too lacy or sparkly. It has plenty of tulle. I touch the fabric and smile. It's not a wedding dress but it is crème colored. It looks like something a princess would wear in the garden during the summer.

I pull it off the rack, curious to know whether it'll even fit. Just as I'm slipping into it, I hear a knock on the door. "How's it going, Helen?" Aiden's voice comes in.

"You can come in." I tell him as I study myself in the mirror. King Aiden eyes me over, watching as I twirl the dress with a small smile.

He smiles gently, "That's a nice choice. It belonged to Princess Nila. My aunt."

"Will she mind?" I ask with worry.

"Not at all. She's happily retired in Paris." Aiden waves it off. He steps towards me, helping me lace the strings in the back. It's a bit large which means he's having to pull the strings a bit longer than they're meant to be. His eyes hyper focused to make sure it fits just right. "You should keep it."

My eyes practically bulge out of my sockets. Keep this dress? It's probably the most expensive thing I've ever worn. Every stitch on it looks handmade. Before I can protest, Aiden sets his hands on my shoulders, looking at me through the mirror in front of us. "Consider it a gift," He says with a kind smile. "Maybe one day you can pass it on to little Juliet."

I turn around to meet Aiden's golden eyes. He looks genuinely happy for me. The sourness I first encountered when I met him has softened. I step on my toes, hugging him closely. At first, he's completely surprised. I think a part of him isn't accustomed to the physical contact. I don't see many wolves trying to invade his space. He slowly returns the hug, and I can feel his aura. A sudden rush of protectiveness hitting me until he reins his aura back in. I can't help but smile gently.

When we pull away, he gives me his arm. "Come now," He says softly. "Matthew is probably anxiously waiting for you."

Aiden walks me through the castle. We end up taking a staircase down a dark corridor and I start to wonder where he's taking me. A rush of curiosity hitting me as I look over my shoulder to where we can see the windows. They disappear behind us, leaving nothing but large stones.

In fact, it gets colder and I'm suddenly feeling like we're entering some sort of crypt. If it weren't for the fact that I can smell Matthew's scent lingered through the hall, I'd probably be freaking out. Aiden stops in front a door that looks like it's locked. I easily would have walked right by it if he hadn't inclined us here.

He smiles at me gently, "This is my favorite place in the world."

Placing his hand on the door, it suddenly illuminates with a bright blue. I watch his eyes flash in the same color before turning back gold. The door slowly creaks open, and I can hear the steady stream of water. Peering inside, my wolf and I suddenly feel an incredible pull. Something I've never experienced before. Like the Moon Goddess herself is in this room. It's beyond magical. And it looks incredible.

The walls are a dark black but with glitters of blue light like it's scattered with glowworms or gems. There's a hole in the ceiling that looks like it's streaming in daylight, but the color resembles moonlight more than the sun. And I can't help but wonder how it's possible when I know there's still daylight outside. I step inside, my wolf feeling an incredible rush of energy and it takes my breath away. I can feel her like I've never been able to. I have to look down at my hands to make sure I haven't shifted.

My eyes scan through the room and land at the very end. Where the stream of water is, there's a small pond that's shining an incandescent blue. Matthew is standing inside a beautiful circle that's made out of scattered rocks. They form the different phases our moon goes through—full, new, and crescents.

Matthew's eyes glisten with warmth as soon as he sees me—scanning down my body and dress as his smile only grows by the second. Pure love crossing his features. I can't help but smile back. He's wearing a white cotton shirt that's quite open and flowy. I wonder if Aiden took him to his wardrobe to pick something out too.

King Aiden takes a place beside me, giving me his arm again. I feel utterly giddy and happy. The realization that in a few moments Matthew and I will be mates. Aiden walks me towards Matthew, my eyes unable to break way from his green gaze.

"You look gorgeous," Matthew tells me—his stare fixated on my face.

I smile brightly, "Not too shabby yourself."

I take my place at Matthew's side—his arm instantly wrapping around my waist. A soft kiss pressing against the side of my head as I feel him take a deep breath. I realize now how intimate this moment is. It's just Matthew and me—he and I—as it should be. I couldn't be happier.

Aiden takes off the medallion around his neck. He places it in the palm of his hand, holding it out for us. I feel Matthew lace his fingers around the back of my hand. He situates our joined hands on the medallion and we both look up at Aiden. There's an energy about this room. It feels like it's alive and our hands on the medallion is like the stethoscope into a heartbeat. I feel like I'm absorbing a sudden urge of energy.

"Your love is quite spectacular." Aiden says softly, the corner of his lip lifting. "Arguably, you've both been touched by the Moon Goddess. Gifted with beautiful life. It brings me great pleasure to bring you together. Matthew Vale and Mia Holms—"

"Vale." I interject quickly causing both men to frown in confusion. I smile, "Mia Vale."

Matthew breaks out in a smile like he's a fifteen-year-old who just got asked to Prom. Giddy and unsuspecting. Aiden chuckles, "Very well. Matthew and Mia Vale, Alpha and Luna of the Valley."

Aiden briefly closes his eyes as a burning comes from the medallion. As soon as he opens them, his gold iris is replaced by a hue of blue. We can feel the room hum like it's become alive. And even though the medallion starts to burn under our touch, neither Matthew nor me move our hands. It hurts at first but the longer we hold on the more pleasant it becomes.

I face Matthew, his eyes already staring down at me. It feels like it's building. Something inside me mending or growing like a flower blooming in the spring. And the more I stare at Matthew the stronger and heavier it becomes. My senses becoming more engrossed by him. Amberwood and coffee and books swirling in my head so powerfully I get lightheaded. The burning in the medallion intensifies but it vibrates and glows. The light getting brighter and stronger.

Matthew sucks in a breath—his eyes Glazing over with silver, and I can feel mine do the same. I can feel my pupils dilate and my wolf starts howling in my head. Everything happens all at once—the instant pull. The instant tingles from his hand touching mine. The blue light from the medallion suddenly turning off like a switch was hit. Aiden opens his eyes, the blue hue disappearing back to golden and he looks utterly exhausted like the energy has been sucked out of him.

But that doesn't matter to Matthew or me. Matthew presses his forehead against mine. Our smiles contagious and I can see the adoration and vindication on his face. He cups my cheeks to face him, and we laugh together as he leans forward to press a gentle kiss against my lips. It feels like sparklers and fireworks. Like electricity and lightning. The bond acting like a steroid between us.

As soon as he pulls away, I wrap my arms around him. The feeling of being surrounded by him unbelievably intoxicating. The mutual love that we share so evidently being expressed in our auras as we vibrate together.

I can feel Matthew smile against my neck. His lips brushing against my skin and then ear. "Mine."

My wolf purrs in my head. Mate.

A/N: One chapter left :') – the Epilogue