Page 28 of The Orc's Stolen Bride

The words felt right, a vow he knew he would uphold with every fiber of his being.

"And you, Kari," Merow continued, turning to face the woman who had brought such joy into his life."Do you vow to stand by Wulf through every challenge?"

"I do," she said firmly.

As soon as the words left her lips, the crowd erupted in cheers. The sound washed over him, their heartfelt blessings enveloping the two of them like a warm embrace. In that moment, surrounded by the love of his clan and holding the hand of his mate, he felt truly complete.

His heart swelled with pride as he led Kari through the throng of celebrating warriors. A grand feast spread before them, tables groaning under the weight of roasted meats, fresh fruits, and hearty bread. The aroma of spices and smoke filled the air, mingling with the sounds of laughter and music.

As they moved among the clan, he found himself constantly aware of her presence at his side. Her hand in his felt right, like it belonged there. They shared cups of mead, the sweet liquid warming them from within as they accepted congratulations and well-wishes from the warriors.

Egon approached, a rare smile on his scarred face.

"May your union bring you joy," he said sincerely, but his eyes flickered to Kari, a hint of longing in their depths before he turned away.

His heart ached for his brother, but the feeling was quickly swept away as Kari tugged him toward the area where warriors were dancing. The beat of drums filled the air, and he found himself moving with her, their bodies in perfect accord.

As they twirled and stepped together, she smiled up at him.

"I'm so happy," she whispered, her eyes sparkling, and his chest tightened.

Happiness filled him as well, the joy radiating from his clan amplifying the warmth of their bond, wrapping around them like a cocoon. Yet, as the night wore on, he found himself growing increasingly eager to be alone with his bride. He caught her eye across the gathering, seeing his own desire reflected in her gaze, and could wait no longer. He strode over and lifted her into his arms, carrying her towards their rooms to the accompaniment of cheers and good wishes - as well as a few less elegant wishes.

The sounds of laughter and music faded behind them, replaced by his rapid steps as he carried her into their bedroom. The space had been transformed. Dozens of candles flickered, their warm light dancing off the walls, and the sweet scent of flowers filled the air. More petals were scattered across the bed.

He put her down, then gently cupped her face.

"Tonight is ours," he murmured against her lips.

The weight of his responsibilities, the burden of the curse, all of it melted away in this moment. There was only Kari, only their love. There was only this night, this moment, as they explored the depths of their love, writing the first chapter of their shared story.

EPILOGUE

Kari gripped the edges of the bed, her knuckles white with effort as another contraction rippled through her body. The oil lamps flickered, casting a warm glow across the room and creating an intimate atmosphere. Sweat beaded on her forehead, and she took a deep breath, trying to steady herself.

Through half-closed eyes, she watched Wulf pace back and forth, his large frame dominating the room. She could see the worry etched on his face as he paced. In his hands, he clutched a small bundle of cloth - a tiny blanket he had painstakingly prepared for their baby.

"Wulf," she said softly, and he was at her side in an instant, his warm hand enveloping hers.

"I'm here, my love," he murmured, his deep voice a comforting rumble, and she smiled weakly, drawing strength from his presence.

As another contraction built, she closed her eyes, focusing on her breathing. Being in labor was so intense, so overwhelming, unlike anything she had ever experienced before as it swept her towards the end.

Merow bustled around the room, her experienced hands preparing everything they would need. Her calm demeanor was a stark contrast to Wulf's restlessness, and she found herself grateful for the older woman's steady presence. Merow checked on her again, then smiled.

"Time to to push."

She nodded, and gripped the edge of the bed again, her knuckles turning white as another contraction rolled through her body.

"Just breathe into it. Let the waves come," Merow instructed gently, her voice steady and reassuring, and she nodded, focusing on the older woman's voice as she tried to steady her ragged breathing.

Wulf gripped her other hand, his touch both protective and comforting. She glanced at him and saw the naked fear in his eyes, along with something else - awe, and deep, abiding love.

"I love you," she whispered, and his grip tightened.

"I love you too."

Another contraction hit and Merow urged her again to push. A surge of energy coursed through her body as she gave one final, powerful push, and the pressure that had consumed her for hours suddenly gave way to an overwhelming sense of relief. A tiny cry pierced the air, and her heart soared with joy.

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