Chapter 99

chapter not just for Alina but for all of us. Her marriage symbolized hope, unity, and the strength of bonds that transcend loss and hardship.

Even now, Alina remains a cherished part of our lives. She's a loving aunt to our children, a trusted confidant, and a reminder of the enduring power of family.

The day passed in a blur of laughter and activity. Merlin and Finn raced their horses across the fields while Alina rode with Luca, her little hands clutching the reins as she squealed in delight.

Later, we gathered in the garden for a family dinner. The kids played tag with the other children from the clan while the adults shared stories and plans for the future.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, Luca pulled me aside.

"Happy?" he asked, his voice soft.

I looked around at our children, at the family we'd built, at the life we'd created together. My heart swelled with gratitude and love.

"More than I ever thought possible," I replied, wrapping my arms around his waist.

That night, as we tucked the kids into bed, Merlin asked a question that caught me off guard.

"Mom, do you think I'll be the Alpha one day?"

I smiled, brushing a strand of hair from his face. "Maybe. But being an Alpha isn't about power, Merlin. It's about love, responsibility, and doing what's best for your family and your people. If that's what you want, then one day, you'll make a great leader."

He nodded solemnly, his young mind already brimming with dreams.

As the house grew quiet, I found myself sitting on the balcony, gazing at the stars. Luca joined me, a glass of wine in his hand.

"Five years," he said, handing me the glass. "Can you believe it?"

I shook my head, a smile playing on my lips. "It feels like a lifetime ago and just yesterday all at once."

He took my hand, his thumb brushing against my skin. "I couldn't have done any of this without you, Lia. You're my strength, my heart, my everything."

Tears welled in my eyes as I leaned into him. "And you're mine, Luca. Always."

The sound of a soft cry interrupted our moment.

"That's Alina," I said, already standing.

Luca chuckled. "I've got her. You relax."

I watched as he disappeared into the house, my heart full.

Life wasn't perfect-it never would be. But it was ours, and it was beautiful.

As I turned my gaze back to the stars, a single thought filled my mind:

This was only the beginning.