Chapter 83 EPILOGUE

Chapter 83 EPILOGUE
Four years later
ALINA
Years had passed, and life in the pack had settled in a way I had never imagined. As I stood in my bakery, gazing out the window and watching children run around, a warm smile played on my lips. It was one of those beautiful, crisp autumn mornings when the sunlight filtered through the trees, casting soft golden shadows across the cobblestones. My heart felt light, a rare but cherished feeling I'd come to treasure over time. My life had felt unreal for the past years.
My two children, Kian and Liana, were heading off to school for the first time today. The thought made me emotional, but it also made me proud. Watching them grow up reminded me of just how far we'd come. With a sigh, I turned back to the bakery, smoothing my apron. The smell of freshly baked bread, warm spices, and sweet pastries filled the room. I had opened the bakery and bookshop a few years ago, not long after my children were born. It had quickly become one of the most beloved spots in the pack, a place where people gathered to enjoy a good story, a warm drink, and, of course, some homemade treats.
It felt surreal at times, knowing this was my life now. Something stable, something good. It made me think that perhaps, having a bad childhood and getting compensated with this was not so bad. The little bell above the door jingled, and I turned to see Alex and Beck entering, carrying baskets of fresh produce from the market. Years ago, I would never have imagined they'd work for me. Given
everything they had done to me before, some people expected me to execute them or do something bad to them.
But thinking it through, I was made of forgiveness. I was not going to be a vengeful person now, so I decided to forgive them.
"Good morning, Alina," Alex greeted with a small smile.
"Good morning!" I replied, glancing at Beck, who was busy arranging the baskets on the counter. "Thank you for getting these so early. It's a big help with all the morning rushes we've been
having."
Beck nodded, her expression more subdued. She looked up, meeting my gaze with a mixture of gratitude and something else—maybe regret. She and Alex had changed over the years, their attitudes softened, perhaps humbled. I knew their past actions would never be forgotten, but I had long since let go of any anger I'd once felt. I knew better than anyone how important it was to let go of grudges and move on.
I smiled at Beck. "I appreciate your help, really. It means a lot to have you both here."
She seemed to relax a little, her shoulders easing as she managed a small smile back. "Thank you, Alina. We're lucky to have the chance to be here," she said quietly.
With a nod, I watched them get back to work. This was healing, in its own way. Just as I was about to head back to the kitchen, Lily bustled in, looking radiant as ever. She was married now to a gentle-hearted warrior named Jaxon. The wedding had been just a few days ago and I was happy that they chose me to help out with the wedding pastries.
"Alina!" she called, her face lighting up as she saw me. "Look at this place. It is packed already, and it's barely morning."
I laughed, wiping my hands on my apron. "I suppose that's a good problem to have. How are you, Lily?"
She grinned, leaning against the counter. "I'm wonderful. Jaxon and I are planning a little trip this weekend. He's been eager to show me some waterfalls in the northern mountains. And guess what?" Her eyes sparkled mischievously. "Maria is getting married next month. She just got proposed to last night."
I gasped, excitement bubbling up inside me. "Maria? Finally. She's been keeping us waiting!"
Lily laughed. "I know. She and Thomas are a perfect match. I think she'll be so happy."
My heart swelled at the thought. Maria, Kai's youngest sister, had always been dear to me. I had watched her grow, and knowing she was finally finding her happiness made me even more grateful for the life we were all building here. Just then, my mother walked in. Over the years, she had established a small school for witches in the pack, where young girls and boys who carried the gift of magic could come and learn in a safe, supportive environment. She had become a beloved figure, and a respected leader, and she had found a purpose that went beyond her past.
"Good morning, my dear," she said, placing a hand on my shoulder.
"Good morning, Mom," I replied, leaning into her touch. "Here for your morning tea?"
She smiled warmly, nodding. "Of course. And to see you, and these wonderful children you've brought into the world."
My hand instinctively went to my stomach, where, once again, new life was growing. I was a few months along, and though it was still early, the news had brought joy to everyone. Kian and Liana were thrilled at the idea of a baby brother or sister, and Kai, well, he was over the moon. As if he sensed my thoughts, the door opened again, and Kai strode in, looking every bit the proud alpha and devoted father he had become. He greeted the customers with a nod, his gaze settling on me with a familiar warmth.
"There's my favorite baker," he said, wrapping his arm around my waist and planting a kiss on my cheek. “And my favorite witch," he added, nodding at my mother.
She laughed, her eyes twinkling. "Kai, always the charmer."
Kai chuckled, then turned back to me, his expression softening. “ How are you feeling?"
"Good," I replied, leaning into him. "Busy, but good."
He gave me a look, one that told me he was still worried, even after all these years. "Don't overwork yourself. You've got a baby on the way, remember?"
I rolled my eyes playfully. "I remember. I just... I like being here, with everyone."
As Kai held me close, I looked around at our little world. At the
bakery that had become a home for so many, at the people who had become my friends, and at the life we had built together. I had found my place here, and it was everything I had ever wanted. Later that day, as we walked through the streets and I marveled at how much everything had changed. The elders respected Kai, and the people adored him. Elder Agnes had passed a few years back, and her departure had brought a sense of closure to many of us. Without her constant interference, Kai had been able to lead the pack with wisdom and compassion that had endeared him to everyone.
"Alina!" a voice called, and I turned to see Maria rushing toward me, her face flushed with excitement.
"Maria!" I exclaimed, pulling her into a hug. "Congratulations! I heard the news from Lily."
Maria beamed, her eyes shining. "Thank you, Alina. I wanted to tell you sooner, but... well, you know how busy life gets."
We spent the next few moments catching up, talking about her wedding plans, the ceremony, and the little details that would make her day perfect. I felt a surge of happiness for her, grateful that she, too, had found her place in the world.
As evening approached, I returned home with Kai, and our children by our sides. The house was warm and inviting, filled with the laughter and love that had become our daily life. I tucked Kian and Liana into bed, watching as they drifted off, their faces peaceful.
When I returned to the living room, Kai was waiting for me, a soft smile on his face. He reached out, pulling me close as we sat together, the quiet of the night wrapping around us.
"Thank you," I whispered, resting my head on his shoulder.