Chapter 0253

"That man is absolutely divine!" Cassandra exclaims as she sweeps into the room. "You're one fortunate woman, my Luna."

"I know." I reply with a smile.

"And so am I." She grins, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

'Why is she looking at us like that?' Valeria questions.

'No idea, but it's making me nervous.' I respond.

"I've been itching to style your hair since you walked through our doors," Cassandra gushes. "When Alpha Sebastian called, I canceled all my afternoon appointments. You, my dear Luna, will be the most breathtaking Luna our pack has ever seen!"

Her enthusiasm grows with every word, while my anxiety spikes. What exactly does she have planned for me? Images of over-the-top makeovers flash through my mind.

To my surprise, the experience is far more enjoyable than expected. Cassandra works her magic with skilled hands, and by the time she's finished, I barely recognize myself—in the best way possible. "Incredible," I breathe, staring at my reflection.

She claps her hands together, beaming. "You love it?"

"It's perfect." My hair is gathered into an elegant high ponytail disguised beneath cascading curls, with delicate ringlets framing my face. A silver clip, matching my shoes, secures the sides.

"Now, Luna," she begins hesitantly, "I hope this isn't too forward, but word is you arrived with nothing but the clothes on your back." I nod, curious where this is leading. "And we all know our Alpha barely has time to breathe, let alone take you shopping." Another nod.

"So," she draws out the word, rummaging through her bag, "I brought you something special—undergarments designed to make our Alpha weak in the knees."

She produces a black lace set—a daring thong and a bra so delicate it might not survive the night. Sebastian will undoubtedly tear it off me within minutes.

"Thank you, Cassandra. That's incredibly thoughtful."

"Oh, it's not just from me," she says warmly. "The entire salon pitched in. We're all thrilled Alpha Sebastian finally found his mate. He's been searching for you forever, and we've already seen the change in him. He deserves happiness."

I embrace her. "I'll thank everyone personally. Now, help me into my dress—it's almost time."

I opt for just the panties, as the dress's design makes a bra impossible. Once dressed, Cassandra hugs me tightly. "So happy for you both," she whispers before stepping back to admire her work. "See you downstairs."

Alone, I steady my breathing. This is what I want—to stand beside Sebastian as his Luna. The thought calms me, and with one final deep breath, I head out.

The backyard transformation leaves me speechless. It's nothing short of magical. Nathaniel and Genevieve wait by the door.

"Luna," Nathaniel says formally. "I'll announce you to our Alpha and escort you to the stage."

"Thank you." I glance at Genevieve. "And you?"

She blushes. "Nathaniel said I could walk with you both until we reach our seats."

"Perfect." Tradition dictates only the Luna and her escort should walk through the pack, but without Genevieve, I wouldn't be here. I'm honored to have her by my side.

"Alpha is ready," Nathaniel says, offering his arm. "Are you?"

"Yes."

He extends his other arm to Genevieve, then smirks at me. "Alpha won't know what hit him when he sees you."

As if on cue, the crowd parts, and there he is—Sebastian, waiting for me on the stage. Everything else fades away. The people, the noise, the world. It's just us. As it was always meant to be.