Page 38 of Beast Bear

Grace moved behind her fingers deftly fastening each tiny pearl button that ran down the back of the dress.

“Almost there,” Grace murmured, pressing her hand to Serena’s shoulder in a gesture both soothing and proud. As the final button found its place, Serena inhaled a surge of emotion.

They turned to the mirror. “Look at you,” Grace whispered, her voice thick. “So beautiful.”

Serena studied her reflection, struck by how right this felt. The gown suited her curvy, athletic build perfectly: a gently fitted bodice with delicate lace overlay that highlighted her narrow waist, and a flowing A-line skirt that fell gracefully over her hips. The sweetheart neckline was trimmed with subtle beadwork, adding just enough sparkle to catch the morning light.

She’d styled her long black hair in a half-up, half-down arrangement—loose, glossy waves cascaded to her mid-back,while a few braided strands at the crown secured a small spray of tiny red rosebuds. Her makeup was soft yet radiant: a touch of rose gold on her lids, a gentle sweep of liner, and a dusty-rose lipstick to complement her warm complexion.

Her gaze shifted to Grace. “I… I’m so grateful you’re here,” Serena said. “That we get to share this moment.”

Grace clasped her daughter’s hand. “I think your father, wherever he is, would want you to be happy now, no matter what his own flaws were.”

Serena nodded slowly, letting that notion settle in her mind. She knew her father had never truly granted her mother the support or freedom she deserved, but she wanted to believe he’d loved them both in his own damaged way. Today was about forging a new legacy, one where trust replaced fear, and where a mate bond symbolized partnership rather than control.

“I have a special gift for you and Theo,” her mother said, squeezing her shoulders. “I’m taking the whole family on a Christmas cruise to the tropics. You, Theo, his parents and sister. And me of course. I thought it would be a great bonding experience.”

“Mom, that’s so generous. And thoughtful.” Serena’s eyes filled with tears, and she had to hold them back to preserve her makeup.

“I have the money. And now that I’m free of your father’s control, all I want to spend it on is getting closer to my family.”

She leaned in and hugged her mother. The sense of closeness they’d developed since her father’s death filled her with a sense of safety and belonging. It was allowing her to heal from herchildhood, to forgive both of her parents, and to move on with her mate in a way that felt healthy and right.

After their warm embrace, Serena followed her mother downstairs to the reception area just inside from the lawn. Outside the sliding glass door, Serena could see the rows of white chairs facing the altar. Theo stood with the officiant under a flower-adorned archway. Pastel ribbons fluttered in the mild breeze. Beyond it all, the rugged majesty of Fate Mountain rose under a clear sky.

The wedding march began to play, and her mother squeezed her hand, giving her gentle encouragement. Together, they walked outside and began the march down the aisle. Friends, family, and many familiar faces from the academy rose from their seats. Logan, Alicia, Jade, and Travis were seated on one side, smiles lighting up their faces.

On the other side, she spotted the broad shoulders of Theo’s father, Shane, beside his sweet mother, Lily. Next to Lily was Stella, Theo’s sister, who wore a playful grin and gave Serena a wink. Each familiar face filled Serena with warmth, reminding her of the trials she and Theo had overcome to reach this day.

As Serena neared the altar, her gaze locked on Theo. He stood tall, wearing a tailored suit that emphasized his lean strength, and his light-brown hair was neatly trimmed. His eyes shone with devotion.

A slight smile tugged at his lips as he watched her come closer. She could practically feel his heartbeat in the air between them. By the time she and Grace arrived at the front, Serena’s nervous flutter had changed into pure, steady conviction. This was right. Everything about this moment felt perfect, in a way she had once believed impossible.

The officiant, a local Fate Mountain shifter with graying hair and a genial smile, greeted everyone and asked them to be seated. “Friends and family,” he began, his voice echoing slightly in the open air, “we gather here to celebrate the union of Serena Vaughn and Theo Keenan. Today we witness a bond that is both profound and grounded in mutual respect.”

Serena’s heart pounded as she handed her bouquet of red roses to her mother, then turned fully to face Theo. Taking his hands in hers, she saw the flicker of emotion in his eyes—love, relief, and the memories of everything they had faced together. She cleared her throat, determined to speak her vows without ruining her special makeup.

“Theo,” she began, voice trembling slightly. “I used to believe that a mate bond could only be a cage. But then I met you, and everything changed. You showed me that trust and love can shape a bond into something freeing and life-giving. Through every challenge, and the doubts and fears that tried to divide us—you stood by me. You taught me that real strength is not about power or control; it’s about caring for each other, even in the darkest moments. I promise to be your partner, your mate, and your wife, for every triumph and every trial that life brings.”

Tears threatened at the corners of her eyes. She felt Theo’s fingers tighten around hers. He inhaled and began his own vows. “Serena,” he said, voice low and warm, “I remember the day you first looked at me as if I might be dangerous, and, to be honest, I was dangerous—to myself—because I couldn’t control my bear. I was haunted by the belief that I would never be able to live a normal life, never be worthy of a real bond. You changed everything. You showed me acceptance, courage, and a willingness to face fear head-on. You saved me in more ways than I can count, and I vow to be the partner who alwaysrespects your freedom, your dreams, and your spirit. As your mate and husband, I will fight for your safety, your happiness, and your heart, every day of our lives.”

A hush fell over the assembly, broken only by the soft wind rustling the ribbons. Serena could feel the emotion radiating from the crowd. Her mother dabbed at her eyes with a tissue while Lily leaned into Shane’s shoulder, tears glistening.

After acknowledging that Serena and Theo already shared a mate bond through shifter tradition, the officiant explained: “This ceremony represents another vital step, uniting your lives in every sense. We celebrate your cosmic connection and your human choice to stand before loved ones and declare your devotion.”

He then guided them through the exchanging of rings. Serena’s stomach fluttered as she picked up the simple yet elegant band they had chosen together. Slipping it onto Theo’s finger felt like anchoring the life they had fought so hard to claim. With a soft chuckle, he returned the gesture, though he fumbled briefly, prompting a ripple of light laughter from the guests.

The officiant cleared his throat, grinning at the couple. “By the power vested in me,” he said, “I now pronounce you husband and wife—and mates in every sense.”

A sudden eruption of applause and cheers greeted the declaration. Logan hurried forward, arms outstretched. “Congratulations!” he exclaimed, nearly enveloping Theo in a bear-like hug of his own.

Alicia, Jade, and Travis followed, each offering their own brand of warmth. Theo’s parents, Shane and Lily, pulled them eachinto an embrace. Stella trailed behind, rolling her eyes in mock impatience.

“My turn,” Stella teased, sidling in for a hug. “You two are glowing, you know that? Guess that’s what happens when a couple is truly fated.”

Shane patted Theo’s shoulder with a proud grin. “This is the day we’ve dreamed of for you, Son. And, Serena,” he added, turning to her, “welcome to the family. We couldn’t have asked for a more caring and brave daughter-in-law.”

The festivities then moved to a decorated patio. Spring blossoms in pastel hues adorned the tables, and a gentle melody from a local quartet drifted through the air. Guests mingled, sipping light drinks and offering their heartfelt congratulations. A line formed for the buffet, where fresh dishes captured the essence of springtime. Soft laughter and lively conversation made the patio feel cozy despite the open space.

---