Page 27 of Bewitching the Orc Chief

I let myself melt into my mate’s embrace. Let the last rays of sunlight wash over us. Let me believe in second chances and happy endings.

Even for a reformed dark witch who’d found her home among orcs.

CHAPTER NINE

OSEN

The way sunlight played across Miranda’s face took my breath away. Her hair glowed like spun moonlight, and those caramel eyes sparkled with mischief. Gods, how had I gotten so lucky? If someone had told me a few months ago that a dating app would lead me to my perfect mate?—

Cold frosting smashed into my face. Cake clung to my nose as laughter erupted around us. I blinked once, twice, and grinned. Payback time.

“You little witch.” I grabbed her waist and pulled her close, making sure to thoroughly smear frosting all over her face as I kissed her. The gathered crowd whooped and cheered.

Miranda squirmed and laughed against my lips. “You’re impossible.”

“Says the one who started it.” I swiped frosting from her nose with my thumb. “Though I suppose that’s what I get for handfasting such a troublemaker.”

“Here.” Miranda snort-laughed and dabbed at my face with a cloth. “You’ve got a bit of...” She gestured vaguely at my entire face. “Just everywhere.”

“For better or worse, right?” I caught her wrist and pressed a kiss to her palm. Her pulse fluttered beneath my lips, and mymind wandered to all the ways I planned to make it race later. But for now, duty demanded we stay and celebrate with our people.

Ourpeople. Because she wasn’t just a human, or a witch to be watched with suspicion. She was my mate. My equal. She now shared my burdens, and I’d see her share the joys, too.

“Yeah,” she breathed. Her smile lit up my world, made brighter by the rings sparkling on her finger. “Forever.”

More cheers surrounded us, followed by enthusiastic applause. Music floated on the breeze, accompanied by the sound of laughter and chatter. Colored lights flashed in the night sky as fireworks boomed overhead. Grimstone was in full celebration mode, packed with guests celebrating my mating to the loveliest creature alive.

Our new shaman, Durzum, raised his cup from the head table, grinning. His presence felt right in a way Alris never had—the younger orc actually gave a damn about our clan’s future rather than clinging to outdated isolation.

He’d even picked Miranda’s brain extensively about my witch’s knowledge of herbs and potions. It warmed me to see them grow friendly. Having allies beyond my brother eased the transition for everyone.

Especially since so many had sided with Alris. Too many, in fact. Most may have cheered when Coth and Alris were defeated, but I wouldn’t forget who threw me a weapon and who watched with stony faces.

“The spirits dance with joy tonight.” Durzum’s voice carried over the crowd. “A blessing on the happy couple!”

Galan lifted his glass from his spot at the edge of the feast. My cousin looked uncomfortable in his formal vest, but he’d at least made an appearance. After a moment, he squared his shoulders and strode over with the air of a man approaching the gallows.

“Congratulations.” The word sounded like it’d been dragged out of him. “You make a striking couple.”

“Thank you, Galan.” Miranda inclined her head. “It means a lot that you came.”

He shifted his weight, jaw working. “Father sends his... regrets for missing the ceremony.”

“Coth made his choice.” I kept my voice neutral. My uncle’s self-imposed exile spared us all uncomfortable confrontations.

“Yes, well.” Galan cleared his throat. “The mead is excellent.”

I hid my smile. From Galan, that was practically a ringing endorsement of both the celebration and my mate. He’d been remarkably helpful these past weeks—even suggesting additional security measures now that a number of dissenters had scattered into hiding or to find a new clan.

Torain grabbed my shoulder from behind, his massive grin threatening to split his face. Zral sauntered along at his heels, watching the celebration with calculating interest.

“Sister!” Torain swept Miranda into a bear hug that lifted her feet off the ground. “Happy days! Though I apologize for your future of unhappy nights.”

Miranda snort-laughed even as I cuffed the back of my brother’s head. The sound came easier these days, especially around my overly enthusiastic brother. Their friendship had fully blossomed since she saved his life. He seemed determined to pay her back, somehow, and being forced to endure his outrageous sense of humor was her payment.

“Put her down before you break her.” Zral’s deep voice held amusement. “Some of us want to dance with the bride.”

The music shifted to something slower, more intimate. I pulled Miranda back against my chest, nuzzling her neck. A shiver raced through her, and my cock twitched in response. “You’ll have to get in line. This one’s mine.”

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