Page 227 of Moonlit Fate

“Like lightning, little one,” Ilaric praised, beaming.

Watching them, I felt it. This was what family meant, the kind we chose for ourselves. It settled deep in my bones, a solid truth I’d never let go.

“Hey, Atticus, try this.” Seren gestured from the drinks table, where she stood with Hale. His arm brushed hers, a silent conversation in their touch.

“Sure.” I moved over, taking the proffered mug. The brew was strong, the kind that warmed from the inside out.

“Good stuff,” I nodded.

“Thanks,” Hale said, his eyes finding Seren’s. “We made it.”

“I can tell. It’s got a kick,” I replied.

They shared a look, something private and profound. It spoke of battles fought and won, of a partnership that was rock solid.

“Seems like everyone’s found their place,” I said.

“Looks that way,” Seren agreed, topping off another cup.

“Here’s to that,” Hale raised his mug, and we clinked ours softly.

“Here’s to us,” I echoed, feeling the truth of it all settle around us like a cloak.

“Lyza, look out,” Joren said as another toddler made a break for the woods. Quick as a flash, Lyza scooped up the little escape artist, spinning him around until his giggles filled the air.

“Gotcha,” she said, her strategic mind always three steps ahead of their children’s next move. “You’re not getting away that easily.”

“Mommy’s too quick for you,” Joren added, ruffling the boy’s hair. Their other toddler clung to his leg, looking up with wide, expectant eyes, clearly plotting her next bit of mischief.

“Your turn to chase me, Daddy,” she demanded, releasing Joren just as quickly.

“Is that so?” Joren glanced at me with an amused smirk before taking off after his daughter, leaving a trail of hearty chuckles behind him.

Children wove joy into every day. It wasn’t just about keeping the kids in line; it was about teaching them, loving them. They were shaping the future of our pack with every laugh and lesson.

“Those two never stop, do they?” Gorden asked from beside the fire where he sat with Eldan.

Forced out of his own pack because of his sexuality, Gorden had sought a safe haven with Silver Claw. From the moment they met, he and Eldan had formed an unbreakable connection. The unfolding relationship between the men brought me hope that all differences could be met with acceptance.

Eldan shook his head, his eyes warm with pride. “They’re what keeps us on our toes, future defenders in the making.”

“Thanks to you,” I said, nodding at Eldan. He’d taken every willing youngster under his wing, turning raw talent into skilled protectors. “The pack’s safer because of your training.”

“Couldn’t do it without Gorden,” Eldan replied, clasping hands with his partner. “He’s got a knack for spotting potential.”

Gorden agreed, his attention lingering on Eldan with quiet respect.

The night wore on, the bonfire dwindling to embers. Aria leaned against me. Our kids were sprawled across the blanket, lost in dreams. I wrapped my arm around her, pulling her closer.

“This was a beautiful night,” she murmured.

“A perfect night.”

I looked up, stars piercing the dark sky. Gratitude welled up inside me. For this moment. For my family. For the life we built. I didn’t need to say it out loud. The stars knew. Every silent thank you for Aria, for our kids, for every day we had. The quiet of the night understood it all.

“Love you,” I murmured.

Aria snuggled closer to me. “Love you more,” she said above the crackle of the dying fire.

That was everything.

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