Chapter 32: The pack

**Nat**

I wore a light green summer dress and braided my hair. Mat was wearing shorts and a t-shirt, so I thought it would be an informal family lunch. When we got downstairs, a small group of people were waiting for us. They were the families of the beta and the gamma of the pack. They were all very friendly and the lunch was delicious.

Luna Loren introduced me to everyone and smiled at me a lot. I think we passed the first phase. She invited me to visit the library tomorrow and said she would really like it if I could help organize it better and help with the children at school to encourage reading. Of course I accepted. She said I loved telling stories and she thought that was perfect.

Alpha Krig told us about some of Mateo and John's pranks when they were children and I loved hearing those stories. In the evening, we changed for the more formal occasion and went to a large hall where the whole pack was gathered. The atmosphere was very pleasant. Many people and young people came to greet us and wish us happiness. I could see how much Mateo was loved by everyone.

The alpha and the luna went up on a small stage and called us, introducing me to everyone as Mateo's companion and future luna. He performed a small ceremony to connect me to the pack and I accepted the invitation and at the same time I could feel a multitude of voices in my head. Mateo held me and told me to focus only on his voice, to take a deep breath and when I felt less dizzy, to say hi to everyone.

It was just a few seconds of discomfort, but then, without hesitation, I said good night to everyone and thanked them for all the affection and love with which I had been welcomed.

I soon received lots of applause and whistles. The Americans were very relaxed, it would take me a while to get used to it.

Alpha Krig then spoke on behalf of the pack to offer a gift to Mateo and me.

" Everyone, we would now like to give the new couple a surprise. A gift that required the cooperation and work of everyone in the Pack.

And with her best wishes ", Luna Loren gave Mateo a key.

"This key is to your new house" — Luna said.

My eyes filled with tears. It was the first time I would have a house of my own. A house of my own, not a rented one.

Mateo thanked everyone and hugged his parents.

A song started and Mateo came to ask me to dance. Then other couples took over the dance floor.

" I hope your tears are of joy, honey."

" Oh, Mat, of course they are."

" I love you, Nat."

" I love you, Mat. And this is the happiest day of my life. I can't wait to see our house."

"Lovebirds, we've already taken your bags. And I'm ready to take you to your new home". — John said.

"So, let's sneak out." — Mat pulled me towards the exit.

The house was three blocks from the main hall. It had a large porch and two floors. It was big for two people, but Mat said we would soon have lots of puppies to fill her with joy.

He picked me up like newlyweds do. And took me inside.

Everything was impeccable. Furnished and with appliances. I would have to thank everyone later in person. Bed linens, towels, dishes, even the refrigerator was stocked.

I closed my eyes and thanked the goddess of the Moon and thought of my mother and grandmother. How wonderful it would be if they could see that we were beginning a new story for the women in our family.

Mateo hugged me and I let him feel all the love I had for him. We stayed there for a few seconds connecting our emotions. Now we were one heart.