Page 62 of Condemned to Love

His fingers comb through my hair, a soothing rhythm that has my eyes drifting closed. The last thing I hear before sleep claims me is his whispered words, "You're mine, Elowen. Always."

29

ALDRIC

Istand beside Elowen, my mate, as we face the gathered crowd. The base's common area buzzes with energy, laughter, and music. Raziel raises a glass, his wings spread wide in celebration.

"To Aldric and Elowen! May their union bring strength to us all!"

The crowd echoes his toast, their voices a thunderous roar. I squeeze Elowen's hand, still marveling at how perfectly it fits in mine. Her green eyes sparkle as she beams up at me, her fiery hair cascading over her shoulders.

Selene approaches, pulling Elowen into a tight embrace. "I'm so happy for you both," she says, her voice thick with emotion.

Jessa sidles up, a mischievous glint in her eye. "So, Aldric, ready to be whipped by our little spitfire?"

I growl playfully. "Watch it, Jessa. I'm still your commanding officer."

She snorts, unimpressed. "Sure, but we all know who's really in charge now."

Elowen laughs, the sound music to my ears. "Don't worry, I'll make sure he stays in line."

I pull her close, nuzzling her neck. "Is that so?"

She shivers against me, and I fight the urge to whisk her away from the celebration. We have duties to attend to first.

Nikolai claps me on the back, nearly knocking me off balance. "Congratulations, my friend. You've found a worthy partner."

I nod, pride swelling in my chest. "That I have."

Music starts up, distracting us, and I look up to see that the celebration has started. And it seems the entire base has come out to join.

I can't remember the last time I saw the vrakken so...alive. The normally stoic faces of my people are alight with joy, their laughter echoing through the cavern. The air thrums with energy, a stark contrast to the usual somber atmosphere of our underground home.

Elowen tugs on my hand, pulling me towards the makeshift dance floor. "Come on, you big brute. Show me what you've got."

I quirk an eyebrow at her. "Are you sure you can keep up?"

Her eyes flash with challenge. "Try me."

We move together, our bodies finding a natural rhythm. Elowen's grace surprises me - she's as fluid on the dance floor as she is in combat. Her hips sway to the beat, and I find myself mesmerized by her movements.

"You're staring," she teases.

"Can you blame me?" I pull her closer, relishing the feel of her body against mine.

We dance for what feels like hours, lost in our own world. The music shifts from fast-paced to slow, intimate melodies. Elowen rests her head on my chest, and I breathe in her scent.

"I never thought I'd see you like this," she murmurs.

"Like what?"

She looks up at me, her eyes twinkling. "Happy. Relaxed. You're actually smiling, you know."

I chuckle, realizing she's right. My cheeks almost hurt from the unfamiliar expression. "I suppose I have you to thank for that."

As we continue to sway, I catch glimpses of our friends. Raziel and Selene are locked in an intimate embrace, while Nikolai twirls Jessa around, both of them laughing. The sight warms my heart. For the first time in centuries, I feel hope for our future.

I savor every moment with Elowen, drinking in her radiant smile and the way her eyes light up as we dance. The weight of the coming war still presses on my mind, but for now, I push it aside. I know I can't keep her from fighting - her spirit is too fierce, too determined. But in this moment, I vow to protect her with everything I have.

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