Page 102 of Kissing Potions and Elves
“Isobel,” he murmurs, his voice steady yet thick with emotion, “from the moment I first saw you, I was captivated. Since then, you have shown me warmth, kindness, and love, even at times when I’ve been grumpy as a Goblin with a headache or before I’ve had my tea.”
Soft laughter moves through the crowd before he continues, his expression serious. “Today, I vow before all who witness this to love you deeply, to cherish you endlessly, and to remain forever yours.”
My vision blurs with tears as my heart swells. “Lyrion, you taught me what it truly means to belong, to be seen and loved completely. With you, I am home. Today and always, I vow to love you with my whole heart, to stand by your side, and to cherish you for as long as the stars shine in the sky.”
Lyrion slips the ring onto my finger, and I do the same in return, sealing our promise with matching symbols of our love.
The priestess smiles. “With these vows, you are now bound in love, trust, and mutual devotion. May your days be filled with happiness, and your hearts forever entwined.”
Applause erupts around us, bright and joyous. But I scarcely hear it, my focus entirely on Lyrion as he cups my face, his gaze tender and full of emotion. “My heart is yours, forever,” he whispers.
“And mine is yours.”
He lowers his head, capturing my mouth in a passionate kiss. As the cheers rise around us, my heart soars, joy and belonging filling every corner of my being.
I am his, and he is mine. Always.
CHAPTER 55
LYRION
Istand at the edge of the bustling reception area, lanterns bobbing in the cool evening breeze, laughter and music filling the air around us. My gaze settles on Isobel nearby, as she talks animatedly with Tressa and Hilda, her smile brighter than the moonlight spilling through the trees.
Warmth surges through me. Gods above, she’s truly mine.
A sharp, insistent meow breaks through my reverie, and I glance down to find Errol looking decidedly offended, his fluffy orange fur meticulously groomed, and his small, perfectly tied bow tie perched proudly at his neck. He glares up at me.
“You forgot to thank me in your vows,”he huffs, tail twitching irritably.“I practically arranged this match myself.”
“My sincerest apologies,” I reply dryly. “Clearly, you’re the unsung hero of the day.”
He nods.“Exactly.”
I suppress a smile as he saunters away, no doubt to find someone else toremindof his critical role in today’s events.
Rhystan nudges me, grinning. “Come on. It’s time to cut the cake.”
With Isobel’s hand in mine, we make our way to a large table set up with a beautiful five-tier golden honey cake, adorned with fresh flowers. Tressa did an amazing job. It’s perfect.
My mother stands close by, her refined face expressionless, but I hear her quiet whisper to my father as I pick up the serving knife. “Honey cake. Such a peculiar choice. That’s human peasant food, is it not?”
I cast her a pointed look, thankful my mate is human and their hearing is not as acute as ours. “It’s Isobel’s favorite dessert.”
“Oh.” My mother’s brows rise before her expression morphs into an approving nod. “Carry on, then.”
Beside me, Rhystan chuckles quietly. “They’re taking this far better than I expected,” he says in a voice so low only I can hear.
“Haven’t you heard?” I whisper, arching a teasing brow. “Ever since King Caelen took a human mate—Queen Lyana—it’s become rather fashionable.”
He snorts before I add, “Fortunately, I believe they truly like Isobel.”
“How could they not?” he asks. “She’s got such a kind heart, I’ll bet she could befriend even a Frost Troll if she ever ran into one.”
A smile quirks my lips. He’s right. I turn my attention back to Isobel as she steps close. She smiles at me, and I know that I’m the most blessed of anyone in all the realm.
Her eyes sparkle with happiness as we slice into the sweet honey cake together. The rich, fragrant aroma fills the air as we feed each other a thin piece, cheers and laughter erupting around us.
A bit of frosting is left behind at the corner of her mouth and I give her a tender kiss, tasting the sweet cream on my tongue as she smiles against my lips.
