Page 80 of The Alpha's Pretend Mate

While he lathered shampoo into his hair, Cassius's mind wandered to Alysa. He pictured her warm honey-brown eyes, her long chestnut hair with those caramel highlights he loved so much.

She's going to be my mate, my partner for life.

The thought sent a shiver of joy down his spine. After his shower, Cassius wrapped a towel around his waist and stepped back into the bedroom. His ceremonial clothes lay neatly pressed on a chair, waiting for him.

As he dressed, he couldn't help but marvel at how much his life had changed in such a short time. From a single father struggling to balance his duties as an Alpha with raising Aurora to finding a mate who loved both him and his daughter.

I never thought I'd be this lucky.

The sound of a car pulling up outside caught Cassius's attention. He moved to the window, peering out to see Articus and Wren stepping out of their vehicle. Baby Ash was cradled in Wren's arms, his tiny fists waving in the air.

Cassius's face lit up at the sight of his cousin and his family. He made his way downstairs, eager to greet his guests. As he opened the front door, Articus's familiar grin greeted him. "There's the man of the hour!" Articus exclaimed, pulling Cassius into a bear hug.

"Articus!" He strode forward, embracing the other Alpha. "I'm glad you could make it."

Articus returned the hug, careful not to squish the baby between them. "Wouldn't miss it for the world. Congratulations, cousin."

Wren stepped forward, adjusting Ash in her arms. "He's been talking about this non-stop since we got the invitation," she said with a laugh.

Cassius peered at the bundle in her arms. "And how's the little one doing?"

Wren beamed, her eyes sparkling with maternal pride. "He's growing like a weed. I swear he gets heavier every day." She leaned in, allowing Cassius to get a better look at the baby. Ash gurgled happily, reaching out a chubby hand toward Cassius.

Before Cassius could respond, Articus spoke up. "Ash already has all the attention on one side of the mountain, Honey. Let the man enjoy his wedding day." He turned to Cassius with a wide grin. "I bet you can't wait to see Alysa, huh?"

Cassius felt a warmth spread through his chest at the mention of her name. "It's totally fine. I was the same when Aurora first came to me. However, I should probably start heading to the ceremonial grounds. Will you join me?"

They made their way to the ceremonial grounds, a beautiful clearing in the heart of the Annex Pack's territory. Flowers in various shades of white and purple adorned the area, their sweet scent carried by the gentle breeze. Cassius's heart began to race as he took in the sight of the arch where he and Alysa would soon be standing.

As Articus and Wren took their seats, Cassius moved to stand beneath the arch. He fidgeted with the cuffs of his shirt, suddenly feeling nervous.

What if I mess up the vows? What if—

His thoughts were interrupted by the sound of a twig snapping nearby. Cassius turned to see Aleksander approaching. His best friend's face broke into a wide grin.

"Ready to make an honest woman of my sister?" Aleksander clapped him on the shoulder.

Cassius chuckled, grateful for the moment of levity. "More than ready. I just hope I don't trip over my own feet walking up there."

"You've got this," Aleksander said, his steel-gray eyes filled with pride and happiness for his friend. "Alysa loves you more than anything. Just focus on that."

As they chatted, more guests arrived. The Light Side Alphas filed in, their presence adding an air of formality to the gathering. Cassius greeted each in turn, introducing them to the Starlight’s Dark Side Alphas they hadn't yet met.

Blake Bennett, the Auburn-haired Alpha of the Yellow Cicada Pack, approached with a warm smile. "Cassius, it's an honor to be here."

Cassius nodded, feeling the weight of Blake's words. "Thank you for coming."

Callahan bounded over next, his enthusiasm palpable. "What a beautiful day for a mating ceremony! Your Alysa must be something special to have caught your eye."

A fond smile tugged at Cassius's lips at the words from the Alpha of the Summer Rain Pack. "She certainly is, Finn. I'm a lucky wolf."

As the Alphas mingled, Cassius caught sight of Fannar Agdluak, the imposing Alpha of the Frost Peaks Pack. The white-haired man stood apart from the others, his icy gaze taking in the surroundings.

Cassius made his way over. "Fannar, I'm glad you could join us. I hope the journey wasn't too taxing."

Fannar's lips twitched in what might have been a smile. "It takes more than a little travel to deter me, Cassius. Your hospitality is appreciated."

The clearing hummed with conversation as Light and Dark Side wolves interacted, some for the first time. Cassius watched with satisfaction as old prejudices seemed to melt away in the face of shared excitement.

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