Chapter 0255

My Seraphina is the most breathtaking creature I've ever laid eyes on. As she emerges for her Luna ceremony, the world around me ceases to exist. Time stands still when our gazes meet across the crowded clearing. She's my entire universe - every dream I dared to have and every blessing I never thought I'd receive.

When she recites the sacred vows that bind her to me and drinks from the ceremonial chalice, I hold my breath. Taking on the mental connection of our massive pack is no small feat - 800 voices suddenly clamoring in one's mind would overwhelm most. But my perfect mate doesn't even flinch. Within moments, she's sorted through the cacophony and embraced them all.

I parade her through the gathering like a prized jewel. Every introduction fills me with such pride I might burst. Eventually, I can't resist stealing her away to the dance floor. Just one private moment with my radiant angel. The ceremony has been flawless - laughter echoing through the trees, joyous dancing under the moonlight, our pack united in celebration.

When Seraphina excuses herself, I head to the makeshift bar. Adrian appears beside me instantly. "That grin looks foreign on your usually serious face, Sebastian."

"I've never had reason to smile like this before." I clink my glass against his. "The storm clouds will gather soon enough, but tonight? Tonight the world is perfect."

Our toast is interrupted by Nathaniel and Donovan joining the conversation. This easy camaraderie - it's what I imagine having brothers feels like. For the first time since my parents' death, the Alpha's mantle doesn't feel like it's crushing me. I have people to share the burden.

I spot Seraphina deep in conversation with Luna Seraphina Grey. Whatever they're discussing makes my mate's eyes sparkle. That's all that matters.

Evelyn comes to collect Adrian, bidding us goodnight as the Blackthorn Pack retires to our guest quarters. When my Luna finally returns to my side, I can't resist pulling her close, inhaling her scent as my lips brush her hair.

"You're glowing," she murmurs, studying my face.

I whisper against her ear, "How could I not be when I have you?" My throat tightens with emotion. "You've given me everything, Seraphina."

The celebration winds down as dawn approaches. I guide my exhausted but radiant mate to our private chambers.

Inside, I carefully remove the pins from her hair, letting the silken waves cascade down her back. My fingers tremble slightly as I unzip her gown - then freeze at the unexpected sight of black lace barely covering her curves.

"Now what's this?" My voice drops an octave as I trace the delicate fabric.

Seraphina turns with a mischievous smile. "A gift from Cassandra and the salon girls."

"I'll double their bonuses tomorrow." I help her step out of the dress, then turn to find her standing before me in nothing but those sinful panties and silver heels. Moonlight catches in her curls, framing her like some celestial vision.

"Tell me what I did to deserve you," I breathe.

She closes the distance between us, arms encircling my neck. "Sebastian?"

I rest my forehead against hers. "I never imagined... never dreamed I could feel like this." The words catch in my throat.

Her kiss pours liquid warmth into my veins. When we part, her fingers thread through my hair. "I love you, Sebastian Blackstone."

"I love you, Seraphina Blackstone." The way her eyes light up at her new name undoes me completely.

I lift her effortlessly, laying her across our bed. Normally I'm not a patient lover, but tonight demands reverence. Every touch is a prayer, every kiss a devotion.

My lips trail down her body with agonizing slowness. She arches beneath me, breath coming in soft gasps. When I finally sheath myself inside her, we move together like the tide - slow, powerful, inevitable.

Tears glisten on her cheeks in the moonlight. I kiss them away as she whispers, "I love you," between shuddering breaths.

No words could contain what I feel in this moment. All I can do is show her - with every careful thrust, every lingering touch, every shared heartbeat as we crest together into bliss.

Tonight isn't about claiming or passion. It's a sacrament. A holy communion between two souls finally made whole.