Page 8 of Protected By Artemis

He felt a lump rise in his throat, but it wasn’t sadness—it was overwhelming happiness for his sister. Seeing Geri’s eyes glow, a sign of her deep bond with Apollo, reassured him that she had found her true chosen mate. Her inner wolf approved, and their union was blessed.

As the newlyweds turned to face the audience, their smiles wide and their hands intertwined, the crowd erupted into applause and cheers. He joined in, clapping and cheering for his sister and her new husband. Geri had found her happiness, and despite the past fears and traumas, she had embraced the possibility of a future filled with love.

The crowd began to disperse toward the reception area, and he felt a sense of relief and satisfaction. He was glad they had decided to set up near the community center, a decision that had turned out to be fortuitous after the bombing of the barn earlier. The barn, where the ceremony was originally supposed to be held in keeping with tradition, still smoldered in ruins. Despite the setback, the pack’s events team had quickly adapted, setting up a beautiful field ceremony that went off without a hitch.

Now, the celebration was in full swing. Guests mingled, laughed, and tables laden with food and drinks and a dance floor awaited. The atmosphere was vibrant, filled with joy and anticipation. Everyone was ready to have fun, eat, dance, drink, and celebrate the newlyweds.

He got a glass of bourbon and stood to the side, watching the revelry unfold. He took a sip, savoring the smooth warmth of thedrink, and allowed himself a moment of reflection. The pack had pulled together in the face of adversity, and the ceremony had been a resounding success.

His gaze wandered over to a group that stood out against the burly, loud pack members—the Greek gods and goddesses who were part of Apollo’s wedding party. Hades’s dark, imposing presence softened by how he looked at his wife, Persephone; Artemis, her keen eyes scanning the crowd; and a human, Adonis, dancing with Demeter, the goddess of the harvest. Their movements were fluid and graceful, drawing the eyes of many around them. He recalled that Adonis, Persephone, and Demeter worked with Geri at the plant shop in New York City. It made sense now, seeing the ease they had with each other and the smiles they shared.

His mind drifted back to a conversation with their grandmother that had taken place a few years ago. Her voice echoed through his memories, filled with concern and frustration. “Why did you think matching her with Asher was a good idea?” Grannie had demanded, her eyes sharp and probing.

He had stood tall, knowing he had to present a strong facade. “Grannie, a merger with Asher’s family will be good for the pack,” he had explained, trying to keep his voice steady and convincing.

Grannie had sighed, shaking her head. “But he isn’t a match for Geri. He is too arrogant, and they would have a horrible marriage.”

The memory of that conversation still stung. He had believed he was making the right choice for the pack, thinking of the potential benefits a union with Asher’s family could bring. But deep down, he had known Grannie was right. Asher’s arrogance and lack of genuine care for Geri would have made for a miserable match.

The memory of that ill-fated match with Asher had left its mark. Geri’s decision to move to New York City had been a direct result, a choice that had shaken him more than he let on. He remembered the conversation with their grandmother, who had supported Geri’s decision to leave and find her path.

“It’s for the best, Cade,” Grannie had said. “She needs to find her own place, her own happiness.”

He had nodded, keeping his emotions in check. “I understand, Grannie. I just want what’s best for her.”

Despite his outward composure, he had felt a deep sense of guilt and regret. He had tried to make a strategic decision, but it had backfired, pushing Geri away from the pack and into a life far removed from their world. Her move to New York City had been a fresh start, a chance to find herself away from the shadows of past decisions.

He sipped his drink while memories of their grandmother filled his mind. Grannie had been a pillar of strength and wisdom for him and Geri. Her support had been unwavering, even when it meant watching her granddaughter move far away to find herself.

Grannie had fallen ill while Geri was in New York City, and when she passed away, left a void in their lives. He remembered the sadness and loss he had felt and how he had tried to be strong for Geri. It was difficult, but Geri eventually found Apollo, and things turned out better than anyone could have hoped.

Watching Geri and Apollo now, he felt a sense of peace. His sister had found her happiness, and their grandmother’s belief in her had been vindicated. Grannie’s wisdom had guided them through some of their darkest times, and he felt her presence in spirit, smiling down on this joyous occasion.

He sat at a nearby table, where he could keep an eye on the joyous chaos of the reception. He watched Geri laughing and dancing with the Greek gods, seeing how close she had becometo them. Despite his happiness for her, he couldn’t shake his long-standing dislike for the gods.

And then he thought of her, Eleni. He had been ready to be serious with her, and they were planning their future together even though they were still in college. But one day, she announced that she was leaving for Olympus. As a demigod given the chance to become immortal, she took it without a second thought, leaving Cade behind. That had been the beginning of his aversion to gods. He often wondered why they were still around when people no longer needed them.

His thoughts lingered on Eleni when his eyes landed on a blonde woman whose hair reminded him of her. A pang of old feelings surfaced for a moment, and his wolf pressed against his skin.Yeah, yeah, I know you didn’t like Eleni.

But when the woman turned around, her blue eyes revealed it wasn’t Eleni. It was Artemis, awkwardly attempting to dance.

Apollo sat down next to Cade, noticing where he was looking. “She’s good at everything except that,” he said with a chuckle, nodding toward his sister.

“Well, it’s good that she isn’t perfect at everything,” he snickered. Just then, Adonis took her hand and twirled her, and she smiled and laughed as they danced.She still looks cute, though.

“Thank you for the ceremony and party, Cade. Geri is so happy, even though she’ll have to be away for a year to stay in Olympus.”

“I’m not thrilled about my sister becoming immortal and being away for that long. But I am happy that she’s happy. That’s what matters most.”

“I know it’s a lot to ask, but it’s the only way for her to become one of us. She’ll be safe and well taken care of in Olympus. And once the year ends, she’ll be free to come and go as she pleases.”

He had only known Apollo for a week. Still, in that short time, he had come to see Apollo as good-natured and, most importantly, capable of handling Geri’s spirited personality. Despite his initial reservations, he found comfort in Apollo’s demeanor and affection for his sister.

They were interrupted by Xavier, his good friend and second in command. Xavier had a no-nonsense and efficient demeanor. Even in his speech, he used only the necessary words, cutting straight to the point. This directness, combined with his formidable presence and sharp intelligence, made him an invaluable confidant to Cade. His black hair and rugged features hinted at the wild shifter within, a constant reminder of the power and strength he brought to the pack. Xavier’s expression was serious, a stark contrast to the festive atmosphere, and Cade felt a twinge of concern.

“Cade, I’ve got more information on the bombing,” Xavier began, his tone grave. “This wasn’t just a random act.”

“This sounds serious,” said Geri, who had been nearby and sat beside her mate. “What have you found out?”

---