Victoria
Elder Maxwell stood at the center of the altar, his ancient face solemn with the gravity of the occasion. As the highest-ranking council member, his presence lent additional weight to the ceremony.But it was the figure standing slightly to his left that made my heart skip a beat. Elder Helena, the most senior member of the Wolf Council, had come personally to witness our union.
As Uncle Alessio and I reached the altar, Leo stepped forward to meet us. His eyes never left mine as Alessio placed my hand in his, the older man’s blessing clear in his gentle smile.
"Take care of her," Alessio said quietly, his words carrying the weight of paternal authority despite the difference in their ranks.
"With my life," Leo replied solemnly, and I knew he meant every word.
Elder Maxwell’s voice rang out clearly as he began the ancient ceremony. "We gather today not merely to witness the union of two souls, but to celebrate the binding of two powerful bloodlines, two great packs, and two hearts that have proven their devotion through trial and triumph."
He spoke of the traditions that bound our people, of the sacred nature of the mate bond, of the responsibilities we were accepting not just to each other but to all those who looked to us for leadership. His words wove together wolf lore and fairy magic, acknowledging both sides of my heritage with equal reverence.
When it came time for our vows, Leo spoke first, his deep voice carrying clearly through the temple.
"Victoria," he began, his eyes never leaving mine, "you entered my life like a force of nature—beautiful, powerful, and completely unexpected. You challenged me to become better than I ever thought I could be. You taught me that true strength comes not from control, but from trust. You showed me that love isn’t about possession, but about partnership."
His voice grew rougher with emotion. "I promise to stand beside you, not above you. To support your dreams, not limit them. To love you not just as my mate, but as my equal, my partner, and my greatest treasure. Through moonrise and sunset, through storm and calm, through whatever challenges we face together—my heart, my life, my everything belongs to you."
Tears blurred my vision as I began my own vows, my voice strong despite my overwhelming emotions.
"Leo, when I first met you, I was running from a life I couldn’t control. You could have taken advantage of my vulnerability, but instead, you gave me the space to find my own strength. You supported me when I stumbled, celebrated with me when I succeeded, and loved me through every transformation—literal and figurative—that I’ve undergone."
I paused, thinking of how far we’d both come. "You’ve shown me that true partnership means growing together, not growing apart. That real love makes us braver, not more fearful. I promise to trust you with my heart while keeping my independence. To love you fiercely while maintaining my own identity. To stand with you as we build something beautiful together—a pack, a family, a future that honors both our strengths."


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