Chapter 21 - Cassius

Today's the day.

Cassius stirred, his eyes fluttering open as the realization dawned on him. His heart raced with a mixture of excitement and nervousness as he sat up, running a hand through his tousled blonde hair.

The sun peeked through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the bedroom. Cassius swung his legs over the side of the bed, his bare feet touching the cool wooden floor. He paused for a moment, taking a deep breath to calm his nerves.

This is really happening.

As he made his way to the bathroom, Cassius caught a glimpse of himself in the mirror. His blue eyes sparkled with anticipation, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. He turned on the shower, letting the hot water cascade over his muscular frame, washing away the last vestiges of sleep.

While he lathered shampoo into his hair, Cassius's mind wandered to Alysa. He pictured her warm honey-brown eyes, her long chestnut hair with those caramel highlights he loved so much.

She's going to be my mate, my partner for life.

The thought sent a shiver of joy down his spine. After his shower, Cassius wrapped a towel around his waist and stepped back into the bedroom. His ceremonial clothes lay neatly pressed on a chair, waiting for him.

As he dressed, he couldn't help but marvel at how much his life had changed in such a short time. From a single father struggling to balance his duties as an Alpha with raising Aurora to finding a mate who loved both him and his daughter.

I never thought I'd be this lucky.

The sound of a car pulling up outside caught Cassius's attention. He moved to the window, peering out to see Articus and Wren stepping out of their vehicle. Baby Ash was cradled in Wren's arms, his tiny fists waving in the air.

Cassius's face lit up at the sight of his cousin and his family. He made his way downstairs, eager to greet his guests. As he opened the front door, Articus's familiar grin greeted him. "There's the man of the hour!" Articus exclaimed, pulling Cassius into a bear hug.

"Articus!" He strode forward, embracing the other Alpha. "I'm glad you could make it."

Articus returned the hug, careful not to squish the baby between them. "Wouldn't miss it for the world. Congratulations, cousin."

Wren stepped forward, adjusting Ash in her arms. "He's been talking about this non-stop since we got the invitation," she said with a laugh.

Cassius peered at the bundle in her arms. "And how's the little one doing?"

Wren beamed, her eyes sparkling with maternal pride. "He's growing like a weed. I swear he gets heavier every day." She leaned in, allowing Cassius to get a better look at the baby. Ash gurgled happily, reaching out a chubby hand toward Cassius.

Before Cassius could respond, Articus spoke up. "Ash already has all the attention on one side of the mountain, Honey. Let the man enjoy his wedding day." He turned to Cassius with a wide grin. "I bet you can't wait to see Alysa, huh?"

Cassius felt a warmth spread through his chest at the mention of her name. "It's totally fine. I was the same when Aurora first came to me. However, I should probably start heading to the ceremonial grounds. Will you join me?"

They made their way to the ceremonial grounds, a beautiful clearing in the heart of the Annex Pack's territory. Flowers in various shades of white and purple adorned the area, their sweet scent carried by the gentle breeze. Cassius's heart began to race as he took in the sight of the arch where he and Alysa would soon be standing.

As Articus and Wren took their seats, Cassius moved to stand beneath the arch. He fidgeted with the cuffs of his shirt, suddenly feeling nervous.

What if I mess up the vows? What if—

His thoughts were interrupted by the sound of a twig snapping nearby. Cassius turned to see Aleksander approaching. His best friend's face broke into a wide grin.

"Ready to make an honest woman of my sister?" Aleksander clapped him on the shoulder.

Cassius chuckled, grateful for the moment of levity. "More than ready. I just hope I don't trip over my own feet walking up there."

"You've got this," Aleksander said, his steel-gray eyes filled with pride and happiness for his friend. "Alysa loves you more than anything. Just focus on that."

As they chatted, more guests arrived. The Light Side Alphas filed in, their presence adding an air of formality to the gathering. Cassius greeted each in turn, introducing them to the Starlight’s Dark Side Alphas they hadn't yet met.

Blake Bennett, the Auburn-haired Alpha of the Yellow Cicada Pack, approached with a warm smile. "Cassius, it's an honor to be here."

Cassius nodded, feeling the weight of Blake's words. "Thank you for coming."

Callahan bounded over next, his enthusiasm palpable. "What a beautiful day for a mating ceremony! Your Alysa must be something special to have caught your eye."

A fond smile tugged at Cassius's lips at the words from the Alpha of the Summer Rain Pack. "She certainly is, Finn. I'm a lucky wolf."

As the Alphas mingled, Cassius caught sight of Fannar Agdluak, the imposing Alpha of the Frost Peaks Pack. The white-haired man stood apart from the others, his icy gaze taking in the surroundings.

Cassius made his way over. "Fannar, I'm glad you could join us. I hope the journey wasn't too taxing."

Fannar's lips twitched in what might have been a smile. "It takes more than a little travel to deter me, Cassius. Your hospitality is appreciated."

The clearing hummed with conversation as Light and Dark Side wolves interacted, some for the first time. Cassius watched with satisfaction as old prejudices seemed to melt away in the face of shared excitement.

The soft strains of music filled the air, and Cassius's breath caught in his throat as he saw Alysa appear at the end of the aisle.

A hush fell over the gathering as Alysa emerged from a nearby tent, resplendent in her ceremonial gown. She was radiant, her brown eyes shining with love and nervous anticipation. Their eyes met, and suddenly, all of Cassius's nerves melted away.

There she is. My mate.

As Alysa walked toward him, Cassius couldn't take his eyes off her. Her chestnut hair cascaded down her back in soft waves, and her smile was radiant. When she reached him, he took her hands in his, marveling at how perfectly they fit together.

Elder Greymane began the ceremony. "We are gathered here today to witness the union of Cassius White and Alysa Volkov. Their bond will not only join two souls but also strengthen the ties between our Packs."

Cassius listened to the words, but his focus was entirely on Alysa. He squeezed her hands gently, silently communicating his love and devotion. She squeezed back, her eyes never leaving his.

When it came time for the vows, Cassius took a deep breath and began to speak from his heart. "Alysa, from the moment you came into my life, everything changed. You brought light and warmth into my world, and you loved not just me but Aurora as well.

“I promise to love and cherish you for all of our days, to stand by your side through every challenge, and to build a life filled with joy and laughter. You are my mate, my partner, and my best friend. I love you more than words can express."

Tears spilled down Alysa's cheeks as she listened to his words. When it was her turn, her voice was soft but filled with emotion.

"Cassius, you captured my heart from the very beginning, even when I tried to deny it. Your strength, your kindness, and your love for Aurora showed me the kind of man you truly are. I promise to support you in all your endeavors, to be your rock when you need strength, and to love you unconditionally. You and Aurora are my family, my home. I love you with every fiber of my being."

Elder Greymane smiled warmly at the couple. "By the power vested in me by the Moon Goddess laws of our Packs, I now pronounce you mates for life. May your bond be unbreakable, your love eternal. Cassius, you may mark your mate."

Cassius's heart pounded as he gently brushed Alysa's hair aside, exposing the curve of her neck. He leaned in, his lips grazing her skin before he bit down, sealing their bond. The rush of emotions that flooded through him was overwhelming—love, joy, and a sense of completion he'd never felt before.

As Cassius pulled back, he saw the mark on Alysa's neck, a physical representation of their bond. She looked up at him, her eyes shining with love and happiness. Without hesitation, he pulled her into a deep, passionate kiss, pouring all of his emotions into it.

The assembled guests erupted into cheers and applause. They broke apart, breathless and grinning, and turned to face their friends and family. Cassius felt a sense of pride and contentment wash over him.

Cassius felt a surge of completeness wash over him. The mating bond hummed between them, a tangible connection that filled him with warmth.

The celebration that followed was a whirlwind of congratulations, laughter, and music. Cassius found himself pulled from one conversation to another, barely able to keep Alysa's hand in his as they made their rounds.

Articus cornered them near the refreshment table, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "So, cousin, ready for the joys of married life? I warn you, it's not all moonlight and roses."

Wren elbowed him playfully. "Don't scare them, Art. They look happy enough to me."

Cassius laughed, his arm tightening around Alysa's waist. "We're more than ready. Though I'm sure we'll be coming to you for advice on balancing Pack duties and family life."

"I'm genuinely happy for you both," Articus said sincerely. "Alysa, welcome to the family. And Cassius, it's about time you found someone to keep you in line."

Alysa laughed, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Oh, I intend to do just that," she teased, nudging Cassius playfully.

As they continued to mingle, Cassius noticed the easy interaction between the Light and Dark Side Alphas. Selena, usually so enigmatic, was engaged in an animated conversation with Callahan. Ragnar's booming laughter could be heard as he swapped stories with Blake.

"It's amazing to see everyone getting along so well," Alysa murmured, following Cassius's gaze.

As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the clearing, Cassius managed to steal a moment alone with Alysa. They slipped away from the festivities, finding a quiet spot near a bubbling stream.

"How are you feeling, my mate?" Cassius asked, tucking a stray strand of hair behind Alysa's ear.

She leaned into his touch, her eyes filled with contentment. "Happy. Overwhelmed. A little bit in shock that this is real."

He chuckled, understanding completely. "I know the feeling. But it is real, and you're stuck with me now."

"I wouldn't have it any other way." Alysa's laugh was music to his ears. "Any regrets about tying yourself to a clumsy, shy wolf like me?"

Cassius turned to face her, cupping her face in his hands. "Not a single one," he said firmly. "You're everything I never knew I needed, Alysa. You and Aurora are my world now."

They shared a tender kiss, savoring this private moment amidst the celebrations. As they pulled apart, Cassius rested his forehead against hers. "I can't wait to start our life together," he whispered.

"Neither can I," Alysa replied, her eyes shining with love and excitement for their future.

Cassius leaned closer to Alysa, feeling a surge of gratitude for her presence in his life. He handed her a glass of champagne he had taken from a table as they made their escape.

“Here’s to new beginnings,” he said, raising his glass in a toast, their eyes locking in a moment of shared understanding.

“To new beginnings,” Alysa echoed, her voice soft yet filled with conviction.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over the clearing, the guests started to say their goodbyes. Cassius and Alysa stood side by side, thanking everyone for coming and sharing in their special day.

The Light Side Alphas left as a group, their presence having marked a significant shift in relations between the two sides since Wren’s union with Articus.

The couple were among the last to leave, little Ash fast asleep in his father's arms. "Take care of each other," Articus said, his voice thick with emotion. "And don't be strangers. You're always welcome in our territory."

As the last of the guests departed, Cassius and Alysa found themselves alone in the clearing. The sound of crickets filled the air, and the first stars began to twinkle in the darkening sky.

Cassius took Alysa's hand, bringing it to his lips for a gentle kiss. "Ready to go home, my mate?"

Alysa nodded, her smile radiant in the fading light. "More than ready. Let's go start our forever."

As they made their way back to their home, Cassius felt a profound sense of change settling over him. He was no longer just an Alpha, no longer just a father. He was a mated wolf, with a partner to share his burdens and his joys.

With Alysa by his side and Aurora waiting for them at home, Cassius knew he could face whatever came their way.

As they crossed the threshold of their home, Cassius pulled Alysa close for one more kiss. The future stretched out before them, full of promise and potential. Whatever it held, they would face it as one.

The future had never looked brighter for Cassius White, and he couldn't wait to see what it held for him and his new family.