Page 35 of Crystal Luna
“Today is a very joyous night. As we celebrate our goddess’s proximity to us, we are also welcoming two new pups to our family. One has stumbled into our midst in her greatest need and has accepted my offer to join us.” His eyes met hers with such tenderness that it melted away all her anxiety. “Velora, please step forward so we all can welcome you as our sister and friend.”
With a deep breath and a reminder to herself to stay focused on him, she made her way through the crowd. It felt like forever and a thousand miles before she stopped just a few feet away from him.
“I don’t bite,” he teased.
Her legs shook as she took the last few steps, she needed to close the distance.
“Velora,” he started softly. “As you stand before the pack, I’ll ask you again and I want you to answer with an honest and truthful heart. Do you wish to become part of the Howler Wolves and let us become your family?”
“Yes.” Her answer shot out before he could even finish his question, earning her a few giggles from behind.
“Clearly eager to get this over with,” he laughed, his chest vibrating. “Velora, I Alpha Heath of the Howler Pack, welcome you to your new home and family. I promise to provide and protect you as long as I live.”
A warm tingling spread through her heart and soul. It spread through her veins and into her muscles and slowly seeped deeper into her mind. Breathing became easier. Her future seemed more bearable and the memories of her past less present. Tears filled her eyes as she looked up to her new alpha, the warmth in his smile only made her even more lightheaded. She never wanted this feeling to end.
“Thank you.”
“Welcome home, Velora.”
Cheers filled the air, but in that moment she only had eyes for him.
With a light heart and the feeling of finally… belonging somewhere, she turned back towards her newfound family.
As soon as she was in arm’s reach, Evelyne pulled her into a hug. “You did it. You were brave. I’m so proud of you.”
The words only spurred Velora’s tears on, but she was so high in the clouds she felt like she was flying. They sat together and watched as the new wolf was guided through his first transition. Velora truly appreciated how the Howler’s let the fathers take part in such a special moment.
Once Evelyne started to feel tired, Wayne took her home and left Velora with the warriors. Now with the reassurance of the pack bond, Velora found it easier to be a part of them. They were very outgoing, though she never felt uncomfortable.
For once, she truly felt as if she were home.
Chapter Twelve
Velora
Feeling much lighter than she would’ve thought, Velora made her way to the pack’s gym the next morning. During the celebration, Marvin had approached to invite her to meet the other warriors.
They were all inside, paired up into teams while Marvin gave them instructions. As she walked up to Marvin, every set of eyes in the room tracked her. Heat crept under her collar. She hadn’t meant to be late, but for the first time in months, she’d unexpectedly slept in.
Marvin met her halfway and she quickly apologised. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to be late.”
“You’re not late.”
She bit her inner cheek hoping the pain would distract her from her blush.
“I pair up each new pup with a more seasoned warrior,” Marvin got straight to the point. “You seemed to get along with Leroy quite well.”
She nodded but her eyes rested on Rayan, who was still refusing to even meet her eye.
Marvin followed her gaze, eyebrows lifting in surprise. “You don’t seem to agree. Are you sure?”
“He figured it out last time.”
Marvin took a moment, clearly worried about her choice. “Very well, but you tell me the second anything goes wrong.”
“I will,” she promised.
“Rayan, come here.”