Chapter 42
That night, Selene lay beneath the furs with her twin pups pressed close. Exhaustion weighed heavy, yet she could not sleep. Two bright blue eyes blinked up at her–little Liam watched, sensing her unrest.
A soft laugh escaped her, breaking the silence. Liam wriggled, nudging Aaron as if to share the secret of their mother’s wakefulness. The two nearly launched into a midnight chorus when a gentle tap against the wooden shutter stilled them.
Selene froze. This den was new–chosen after Cassandra’s intrusion–and no one should have known its place. She pressed a finger to her lips, calming the pups, then peered out.
There, crouched in the moonlight, was Damien. He tossed pebbles lightly against the shutter, careful not to break it. When she opened the door, he stepped forward, taking the twins into his arms with practiced ease.
“Are they giving you trouble again, little warriors?” he murmured. The boys giggled, tugging at his hair. Damien sighed. “I cannot win against these two devils.”
“You spoil them,” Selene said softly. He only smiled and caught her hand. “I know I come late, Selene. Will you walk with me beneath the moon?”
She nodded, and he led her into the night. The clearing ahead blazed not with fireworks, but with torches and fireflies. A bed of wild roses stretched wide, their petals arranged to form her name under the silver glow of the full moon.
Selene’s breath caught. “By the spirits…”
“Close your eyes,” Damien whispered. She obeyed. When she opened them again, he stood bare–chested before her. Over his heart, black ink marked her name–SELENE- etched deep as a vow.
He sank to one knee, a small carved bone box in hand. “Do not fear my love,” he said. “You are my strength, the heart of my life. I vow before the moon and our ancestors to protect you, and our pups, with all that I am.”
Inside the box lay a silver ring, wrought with runes. “You are the most precious gift to me, Selene. Will you your mate?”
take me a
Her hands flew to her mouth, tears spilling freely. “Yes,” she whispered, voice trembling.
Damien slid the ring onto her finger and drew her into his arms. Above them, the moon crowned the sky, and for a fleeting, perfect moment, Selene felt rightness settle over her soul.
14:31 Sat, Sep 27
Chapter 43
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.