Page 36 of Taken By the Wolf Daddy

“We couldn’t believe it either, Dad,” I replied, my voice softening. “It’s over now, though. She won’t be a threat anymore.”

Dad nodded, his expression shifting from concern to determination. “We’ll need to inform the Council about this,” he said, referring to the governing body of the shifter clans. “They need to know what happened. The sheriff, too.”

Once we had shared the details of our harrowing experience, I took a deep breath, preparing for the next step. “Dad,” I began, “there’s something else we need to talk to you about.”

He looked at us, his brow furrowing in confusion. “What is it?”

“Dad, Jesse, and I… We really want to be together. We can’t keep fighting this anymore. I know you don’t want it to happen, but it’s all I have ever wanted. I love him.”

Jesse took over, his voice filled with determination. “We believe that we’re fated for each other, that there’s a deep connection between us that goes beyond friendship. It truly is love, for both of us. We do need to be together. It’s the only way.”

Dad’s eyes widened in surprise, and he looked from Jesse to me and back again. I could see the wheels turning in his head as he processed our words.

After a moment of contemplation, he sighed and spoke, his voice laced with resignation. “I may not understand it, and I may not agree with it, but I can’t deny that there’s something special between you two.” Relief washed over me as Dad continued, “Jesse, you better promise me you’ll keep my baby safe and happy. I don’t want to see her hurt.”

Jesse nodded solemnly, understanding the weight of his words. “I promise, Mike. I’ll do everything in my power to protect her and make her happy.”

I smiled, my eyes glistening with tears of gratitude as I hugged my father. “Thank you, Dad.”

With Dad’s blessing and the knowledge that our love was meant to be, Jesse and I embarked on a new chapter in our lives, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, together.

NINETEEN

MARIE

Three months had passed since the harrowing encounter with Ophelia. Life had gradually returned to a semblance of normalcy, and the wounds of the past were beginning to heal. Jesse and I had come out of that ordeal stronger than ever, our love deepening with each passing day. I couldn’t believe how quickly things had gone, but at the same time, it just felt right.

As we stood at the altar, ready to exchange our vows, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of happiness and gratitude. My father, Mike, stood before us, ready to officiate the ceremony. He had come a long way since our revelation, learning to accept and support our love for each other. I was so grateful to him for being so willing to accept and embrace me. Honestly, life in Wolf Mountain had been so much better with him letting me go just a little bit. Now, I didn’t feel the need to go anywhere.

The sun bathed the outdoor setting in warm, golden light, and a gentle breeze rustled through the trees, carrying with it the sweet scent of blooming flowers. Our closest friends and family gathered to witness this pivotal moment in our lives, and I felt a sense of belonging and completeness that I had never experienced before.

Jesse, looking handsome in his suit, smiled at me with all the love and adoration in the world. His deep, brown eyes held a promise of a future filled with happiness and shared adventures.

As I waited for the ceremony to begin, my heart swelled with happiness as I looked out at the familiar faces that surrounded us. The serene beauty of the outdoor setting was the perfect backdrop for our celebration. The scent of fresh flowers filled the air, and the gentle breeze carried with it a sense of peace and unity.

Belle, my darling new stepdaughter, was the star of the day as our adorable flower girl. She looked like a little angel in her flower-adorned dress, and her infectious giggles brought smiles to everyone’s faces. With her small basket of petals, she walked down the aisle with a radiant smile, spreading joy and love along her path.

Jesse, my soon-to-be husband, held my hands with a proud and loving smile on his face. His pack members surrounded him, supporting him on his big day. It was so sweet to see their bond, which had also grown by the day since the attacks happened. There were even some Blackpaw members, and World Walkers, too, their unity stronger than ever. I seriously hoped that nothing ever happened in the future to shatter that calm. As far as I was concerned, we had been through enough drama to last us a lifetime.

My dad stood before us, his presence commanding and his voice steady as he began to speak the official words of a wedding officiant. The solemnity of the moment settled over us, and I couldn’t help but feel a rush of emotion. This was the day I had dreamed of. The day I would pledge my love and commitment to Jesse in front of our friends and family.

“Dearly beloved, we gather here today in the presence of family and friends to celebrate the union of Marie Oldfield and Jesse Rivers in marriage. Marriage is a sacred bond, a commitment of love, trust, and support that two individuals share with one another. It is a journey of shared dreams, of overcoming challenges together, and of cherishing each other’s presence every day.”

As he continued with the ceremony, his words were filled with warmth and wisdom, a testament to the love and support he had always shown me throughout my life. He spoke of love’s enduring nature, its ability to weather storms and stand the test of time. I looked into Jesse’s eyes, his gaze unwavering and filled with love, and I knew that our love was just as enduring.

“As we stand beneath the open sky, surrounded by the beauty of nature, let us remember that love, like the world around us, is ever-changing and ever-growing. It is resilient, just as you both have been in your journey together.”

The sunbathed us in its golden glow, casting a warm and inviting light on our outdoor ceremony. I could hear the soft rustle of leaves in the breeze and the distant chirping of birds, as if nature itself was bearing witness to our union.

“Marie and Jesse, today you come before these witnesses to declare your love for each other and your intention to spend the rest of your lives together as husband and wife.”

With each word my dad spoke, I felt a deepening sense of joy and anticipation. This was the moment we had been waiting for, the culmination of our love story.

Jesse spoke first, filling my heart with warmth and joy. “Marie, from the moment I started working with you, I knew my life would never be the same. You are the brightest star in my universe. Your spirit, your laughter, and your boundless love have brought endless joy into my life. Today, in the presence of those we hold dear, I pledge to be your unwavering protector, your confidant, and your greatest supporter. I promise to cherish every moment we share, to listen, to laugh, and to comfort you in times of need. With all that I am, I vow to love you fiercely, honor you deeply, and hold you close for all eternity. Today, I promise to stand by your side, to cherish every moment we share, and to be a source of strength and support in times of joy and sorrow. I promise to love you unconditionally, to listen when you need to be heard, and to laugh with you in times of happiness. With all that I am, I choose you as my partner for life.”

A tear rolled down my cheek. Maybe I should have gone first because the emotion was choking me up. I wasn’t sure I would be able to get it all out, but I had to try. “Jesse, you are my rock, my confidant, and my greatest love. I promise to stand by your side, to encourage your dreams and aspirations, and to cherish the unique bond that we share. From the moment we met, you’ve been a guiding light in my life. Your strength, your kindness, and your unwavering love have shown me what it means to be cherished. Today, in front of our loved ones, I promise to be your rock, your partner in adventure, and your shelter in the storm. I vow to support your dreams and encourage your passions, just as you’ve always done for me. With all my heart, I promise to love you, honor you, and cherish you for the rest of our days. I promise to be your refuge in times of storm, your companion in times of adventure, and your source of laughter in every moment. With all that I am, I choose you as my partner for life.”

Dad stepped forward with rings in his hands. “These rings are a symbol of your unending love. As you wear them, may they remind you of the promises you have made today and the love that binds you together.”

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