“I don’t know. Does it matter?”
“Yes, and no. If we’re going to have a wedding, I want all my people to attend. But I’d like it to be on our terms, the way we want it, not a surprise the way anyone else wants it.”
“Agreed. And it should be done in your community with everyone in your clan. You’re the bride.”
“If we do it at all. Some of my clan are married, but some are not. All are mated and are bound regardless of a little piece of paper.”
“That’s how I feel about it. You are my mate, my wife, my life. Any additional ceremony only confirms what we already know, but I’m not against it if it means something to you.”
“I’m not against it, but I’d like the opportunity to plan it myself and have it with my clan present at least. It won’t be tomorrow.”
“You want to go over and let them know?” he asked.
“Not really. I had enough peopling yesterday. And today we’ve had quite a few visitors, too. Which is fine. They’re family for the most part. But I’d really like some quiet time.”
“Tell you what. I’ll run over there, take care of any misguided plans they may have, and you stay here and unwind.”
“I was hoping to unwind with you.”
Boon grinned at her. “Be careful what you wish for, my mate,” he teased, his voice going growly and even deeper than it was naturally.
“What if I know exactly what I’m wishing for?”
“I’ll hurry.”
“You do that.”
Boon finished his second sandwich and kissed the top of her head before he rushed out of the door.
Angelle took her time finishing her food, then washed the dishes, and put the ham and the bread back where it belonged. She wandered around the house for a little while, rearranging this or that, placing little things in a new place. She walked over to the windows a couple of times but didn’t see Boon coming back. The view was lovely though. She knew she’d never get tired of looking at it. She looked around the room once more, then out at the land that was now hers and Boon’s. “I can go walk around out there if I want to. It’s mine,” she said to herself.
She took Terrus’ book of flora and fauna off the shelf, slipped on her shoes, and headed out of the door to explore her new world.
Chapter 21
Boon strode up to the small group of people gathered in front of Destroy and Rowan’s home. Everyone’s back was to him as they watched Lily explain what she wanted done in preparation of the party she’d planned for Elijah’s introduction, and the celebration of Boon and Angelle’s union.
Marauder waited until Boon came to a stop right behind the group, then walked over to stand beside him, lifting his hand to offer a high-five.
Boon high-fived him, then both crossed their arms over their chests as they listened to Lily make her grand plans.
“I want the dais to be raised so that everyone can see them as they take their vows,” Lily said, her arms extended as she described exactly what she was hoping to have in place by the end of the day. “The backdrop should appear more natural than frilly. White of course, lots of greenery, flowers, but no ribbon or sparkle. Neither of them is overly frilly. And at their table we’ll be seating her parents as well as mine. Tempest and Brandt also want Elijah introduced, and we will, but I think that it’s important Elijah, Boon, and Angelle all receive equal attention.”
A few people made suggestions for decor, Lily answered, then asked if there were any more questions.
“I have one,” Boon said dryly.
Lily spun to face the owner of the familiar voice. “Boon! I didn’t know you’d joined us.”
“Sure you did,” Boon said.
Lily grinned at him. “What’s your question?”
“Why are you planning a wedding?”
“I thought it would be a wonderful way for everyone to witness your commitment to your mate.”
“No.”
