“My dear,” she sighs, wrapping me in her arms. “Welcome home.”
Qurill drops my hand so that I may properly embrace his mother. Despite our height difference and our similar appearance in age, this hug is that of a mother. It makes my heart ache remembering my own mother. She would be happy for me—she was always a dreamer and a believer in true love.
Tears sting my eyes as I hold on tighter to the Queen.
“Thank you, your majesty,” I whisper, my voice near breaking.
The Queen laughs. Her slight shoulders shake as she pulls back. Squeezing my arms, her grin is infectious.
“Please, no formalities amongst family. You must call me, Melody.”
Family. The word clangs through me.
The Queen—Melody—finally releases me. She grips her husband's hand and pulls him up beside her.
“And this is Zalenyk.”
The Kraken offers me a warm smile. He squeezes my shoulder as he had his son before taking his wife in his arms. His tentacles play in her hair and suck lightly on her face. I find Qurill’s hand again and lock our fingers tight.
“We are so happy to finally meet you.” His eyes sparkle in amusement. “You are far too lovely for our reckless son.”
“Zalenyk!” Melody reprimands, elbowing him in the stomach.
“Thanks for that, Father.”
Qurill shakes his head, but he is grinning all the same. I can’t help but join in their amusement. Life is easy. They approve of me and have welcomed me into their home. Everything is just as it should be.
“We’ve had some food prepared. You must be hungry after your journey here.”
Zalenyk and Melody exit the throne room first. I turn to follow, but Qurill tugs my hand. His palms fall to my hips, turning me fully towards him.
“See, told you they’d love you.”
I grin up at him.
“Right as always.”
His lips brush mine in a featherlight touch. I groan, reaching for him again. Qurill chuckles against my lips, kissing me firmly once more before pulling back.
“I can’t wait until we’re alone,” he confesses.
“Me as well.”
His finger trails along my jaw.
“I’ve always dreamed of fucking my mate in my childhood bedroom.” The low, decadent whisper of his voice causes me to shiver. “It’s on the opposite side of the castle—no one will hear your screams of pleasure. Not unless I want them to.”
Smiling against his mouth, I shake my head.
“You are incorrigible,” I chastise.
“And you are mine.”
“Forever.”
“Forever,” he agrees, sealing our eternity with one bruising kiss.
EPILOGUE
