Page 199 of Knot Happening Again

Amber's eyes crinkle with understanding. "It's not strange at all. You've already been marked by all of them, right? This is just making it official for the world to see."

I nod, my hand instinctively going to my neck where their marks rest. Each one a testament to the love and acceptance I've found with this pack. "Exactly. I'm just... I'm excited that they wanted to do this. To declare our bond to everyone."

"Of course they do. How could they not want to share you with the world? They're clearly head over heels," Amber says, giving my shoulders a gentle squeeze. "You know, I've never seen the pack so united before. You're clearly good for them."

A warmth spreads through my chest at her words, but it's tinged with a hint of guilt.

"I almost landed Leon in jail," I murmur, the memory of that night at the arena flashing through my mind.

Amber laughs, the sound light and carefree. "Oh please, that hypocritical reporter had it coming. And besides, Maddox and the legal team smoothed it all over just in time for today. After this ceremony, no one will be able to question that you belong with the pack."

I turn to face her, overwhelmed by the acceptance in her eyes. This is what family should be like. Supportive, loving, unconditional.

"Thank you, Amber. For everything."

She pulls me into a gentle hug, careful not to wrinkle my dress. "That's what family's for, love. Now, are you ready to go make my brother the happiest alpha on the planet?"

I take one last look in the mirror, smoothing down my dress.

"I'm ready."

The walk to the ceremony space feels like a dream. The soft strains of music grow louder as we approach, and my heart races with anticipation. This is it. The moment I never thought I'd have.

As I round the corner, the sight before me takes my breath away. The garden of the lavish hotel has been transformed into a fairyland, with twinkling lights strung between the trees and delicate white flowers everywhere. But it's not the decorations that capture my attention.

It's them.

My alphas.

My pack.

Standing at the end of the aisle, looking more handsome than I've ever seen them.

Mace, his burly frame softened by the emotion in his eyes. Troy, for once without his trademark smirk, instead wearing an expression of pure awe. Maddox, practically vibrating with excitement. Rhys, his green eyes shining with unshed tears.

And then there’s Leon.

The man who broke my heart and then put it back together with so much devotion and love. He looks at me like I'm the sun, the moon, and all the stars combined.

As I walk down the aisle, I feel the weight of everyone's eyes on me. But for once, it doesn't make me want to shrink away. Instead, I stand taller, more confident. Because I know I belong here, with these men who love me beyond reason.

The ceremony passes in a blur of emotions. We exchange vows, promises of love and devotion that bring tears to my eyes.When it comes time for the marking, each of my alphas steps forward in turn, renewing their claim on me with one of five delicate rings that lock together, a symbol of the marks that already adorn my skin.

As Leon pulls away, the last to place his ring as it fits perfectly on top of the others, the officiant's voice rings out clear and strong: "I now pronounce you a mated pack. May your bond be ever strong, ever true."

The garden erupts in cheers and applause, but I barely hear it. I'm lost in the eyes of my mates, my pack, my family. In this moment, I feel more loved and accepted than I ever have in my life.

The reception is a whirlwind of congratulations, hugs, and well-wishes. I'm introduced to more extended family members than I can keep track of, but each one welcomes me with open arms. It's overwhelming in the best possible way.

"How are you holding up, princess?" Troy murmurs in my ear as we share a dance.

I lean into him, breathing in his familiar scent of bourbon and leather. "I'm perfect," I say, and I mean it. "I never thought I could be this happy."

His arms tighten around me. "You deserve all the happiness in the world, Effy. And we're going to spend the rest of our lives making sure you have it."

As the song ends, I'm passed to Rhys for the next dance. His touch is gentle, reverent. "You look absolutely breathtaking," he says, his voice thick with emotion. "I still can't believe you're ours."

I reach up, cupping his cheek. "Believe it. I'm not going anywhere."

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