I couldn’t believe he did this. My heart swelled at the sentiment, reaffirming my profound love for this male.
I leaned in to kiss him as cheers and applause rose from our friends and family.
“With this binding marriage, I also crown our king and queen.” The priest’s voice rang clear. “Do you both vow to lead with wisdom, to protect with strength, and to serve with a humble heart? To pledge your loyalty to your people, honor the past, and guide us toward a future bright and true?”
“We do,” Daxton and I said in unison, our brows pressed together as we breathed each other in.
“It is my pleasure to introduce High King Daxton Aegaeon and High Queen Skylar Cathal.”
We kissed again, the roar of applause swelling louder than before as Castor placed a silver crown on Daxton’s head while Shaw crowned me with a matching one.
We were mated.
We were married.
We were crowned.
And together, we were ready to takeon the world.
Chapter Nine
Skylar Cathal
Laughter and boisterous music filled our wedding reception. Fire’s crackled with flowing spirits and delicious fresh game, roasted vegetables, and decadent desserts prepared in the kitchens made my stomach groan in delight.
I’d be lying if I couldn’t help myself from tasting every single dish.
“It’s almost time, Spitfire,” Daxton whispered in my ear as I licked my finger free from a sweet cream dessert. “You have five minutes until I whisk you away for our evening alone.”
“Thank the gods above,” I said, my core melting as his knuckles skimmed across my ribs, while his other hand played with the sheer fabric along my lower back.
“How much longer now?” I asked.
“Four minutes and thirty-six seconds.”
I bit my lip, anticipation curling in my chest at the thought of spending the entire evening alone with Daxton. Imagining what else his talented fingers had planned.
“Tonight, you belong to me, and me alone, Spitfire.”
“Are you sure we can’t leave now?”A rush of need flickered betweenour bond.
“Patience, wife. You have four minutes. Quickly say your goodbyes, and I’ll do the same.”Pressing his lips to my temple, he released me before fading into the crowd.
Forcing myself not to follow him, I looked out onto the reception full of laughter and music. I wandered along the outskirts, taking a moment and letting it all sink in.
Gunnar’s laughter was light and carefree as he talked with Magnus over cups of ale. Rhea twirled along the flames of the bonfire with Talon in tow, the pair looking happier than I’d ever seen them. Then there was Shaw and Zola watching from the outskirts of the chaos, their quiet smiles saying more than words ever could. Everywhere I looked, someone I loved was laughing, dancing, living fully in the moment.
Shifters and High Fae were no longer separated.
I allowed myself to savor this one night where every worry had melted away, leaving only laughter, love, and the magic of being together.
“So, you clean up nicely after all,” Castor taunted, coming to my side with Nyssa tucked under his arm.
“I’m surprised we didn’t make it a double wedding,” I said, giving Nyssa a swift wink.
“Oh, please,” Castor scoffed, waving a hand. “I wouldn’t dream of—”
Nyssa playfully smacked his chest to cut him off, her fingers already moving. “I wouldn’t allow it,” she signed with a smirk. “This is your night.”
