Alpha Eric's Promise, Protecting those he loves
Chapter 71

Chapter 71: Chapter 71

Aria’s Wedding Day

The sun hung low in the sky, casting its warm, golden glow over Crescent Moon Pack’s territory. The air was crisp, filled with the scent of pine and the faintest trace of blooming wildflowers. Today was a day of celebration, a day of unity for the pack, for it was the day Alex’s twin sister, Aria, was to marry. It wasn’t just any wedding—it was a union that signified the restoration of the pack’s traditions, its bonds, and its future. The pack had come together to mark this occasion, each member contributing in their own way.

Alex stood at the edge of the pack’s grand hall, gazing out over the bustling grounds where preparations for the ceremony were underway. The scent of fresh flowers filled the air as pack members hung garlands and decorative ribbons, transforming the usually humble hall into a place fit for royalty. There was a certain vibrancy in the air today, a rare joy that Alex hadn’t seen in quite some time. It was a stark contrast to the unease that had plagued him for the past few months. But today, today was different. Today, his sister was getting married.

Aria was a force in her own right. Strong-willed, kind-hearted, and fiercely loyal to her pack, she had always been the one who held things together when Alex’s mind was preoccupied with his duties as Alpha. She had stood by him through thick and thin, never faltering in her belief in the pack’s future. Now, as she stood on the precipice of a new Chapter in her life, Alex could hardly contain his pride and love for her.

"Alex."

The voice broke through his thoughts, and he turned to find Selene standing behind him, her eyes soft with understanding. She wore a gentle smile as she approached, her hand brushing his arm in silent reassurance.

"She’s going to look beautiful," Selene said, her gaze following Alex’s toward the entrance of the hall, where Aria was preparing for the ceremony.

Alex nodded, though his heart swelled with a mixture of emotions. He had always been protective of Aria, and seeing her about to marry one of the most respected members of the pack was bittersweet. His mind wandered to the man who was to become her husband: Damon. Damon had been a loyal member of Crescent Moon for years, a strong warrior with a deep sense of honor. He had earned the respect of everyone in the pack, and even Alex had come to trust him implicitly. Their relationship had blossomed over the years, and now, it had led to this moment.

"I just want her to be happy," Alex said, his voice soft but filled with a depth of emotion. "She deserves all the happiness in the world."

Selene smiled, her hand gently cupping his cheek. "She’s found it, Alex. With Damon by her side, she’ll have the love and support she needs."

Alex didn’t say anything for a moment, the weight of his thoughts pulling him deeper into reflection. He had always been the protector of his family, and the idea of Aria venturing out into the world as a married woman felt like a shift in the very fabric of his life. But he also knew this was a necessary step for both Aria and Damon. Their union would not only strengthen the pack but also solidify the future of Crescent Moon. Alex would no longer be the only one holding the future of the pack on his shoulders. Aria, too, would play a role in shaping their destiny.

With a final glance toward the preparations, Alex turned to Selene. "I’ll check in with the elders. You stay with Aria and make sure she’s ready."

Selene nodded, her eyes filled with warmth and understanding. She knew how much this day meant to Alex, and she was more than happy to support him in whatever way she could. As he made his way toward the gathering area, he could already hear the distant murmur of the pack members, their excited chatter filling the air. It seemed the entire territory had come alive with anticipation for the day’s event.

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The Ceremony

The wedding ceremony was set to take place in the heart of Crescent Moon, beneath the towering trees that had watched over the pack for centuries. The clearing had been transformed into a beautiful sanctuary, with a long aisle lined with flowers in shades of white, lavender, and soft blues. The soft hum of a string quartet filled the air, blending with the natural sounds of the forest. The elders, including Alex’s closest advisers and mentors, were seated in a circle at the front, while the rest of the pack gathered in rows behind them.

Aria stood at the back of the crowd, just moments before the ceremony was set to begin. She was dressed in a flowing gown of ivory silk, her dark hair pulled back into an intricate braid that cascaded down her back. Her eyes were bright with excitement, but there was a quiet, reflective quality to her demeanor that Alex had come to know well over the years. His sister had always been the one to consider every angle, to think deeply about her decisions before making them. This marriage, this union with Damon, was no different. It wasn’t just a joining of two hearts—it was a decision that would affect the pack for generations to come.

Selene stood beside her, adjusting the final touches of her gown. "You look beautiful, Aria," she said softly, her smile reflecting her admiration for the woman before her.

Aria’s smile was warm, her eyes gleaming with happiness and a hint of nervousness. "Thank you, Selene. I couldn’t have done this without your support."

Selene laughed lightly. "You’re stronger than you know. This is your moment, Aria. Embrace it."

Aria took a deep breath, her nerves slowly melting away as she focused on the task at hand. She was ready for this. She had always known Damon was the one for her, and now she would join him in a bond that would strengthen the pack. Together, they would lead, not just as mates, but as equals, united in their love and devotion to Crescent Moon.

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The Vows

The ceremony began, and Alex stood at the front with the elders, his posture proud and solemn. He couldn’t help but steal a glance at his sister as she walked down the aisle, her hand resting on the arm of their father. The moment was beautiful, serene, and Alex could feel the weight of tradition settling over them all. It was a reminder that while the pack’s future was uncertain in some ways, it was anchored in moments like this—moments of unity, of love, of family.

When Aria reached the altar, Damon was waiting for her, his expression filled with tenderness and reverence. He took her hand in his, and they both turned toward the elders, awaiting their guidance.

"Aria, Damon," the lead elder began, his voice strong and steady. "Today, you stand before us, not just as individuals, but as part of something greater. The union you are about to form is not just a bond between two souls—it is a bond that will affect the future of our pack. Do you vow, before the moon and all of your pack, to uphold the values of loyalty, respect, and strength? Will you work together to ensure the future of Crescent Moon, guiding it through both prosperity and struggle?"

"I do," Aria replied, her voice unwavering, filled with certainty.

"I do," Damon echoed, his gaze never leaving Aria’s.

The elder nodded, then continued. "Then, by the power vested in me by the elders of Crescent Moon, I now pronounce you mates. May your bond be strong, and may it carry you through all the challenges the future may bring."

A cheer erupted from the gathered pack members as Alex stepped forward, his heart swelling with pride for his sister. He had watched her grow from a shy, uncertain girl into a strong, compassionate woman—someone who was more than capable of standing by Damon’s side. This marriage was more than just a celebration of love—it was the next step in the evolution of Crescent Moon, the beginning of a new era.

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The Reception

The reception that followed was filled with laughter, music, and celebration. Tables were laden with food, drinks flowed freely, and the entire pack mingled with one another, sharing stories and enjoying the joy that radiated through the clearing. Alex found himself standing at the side with Selene, watching as Aria and Damon shared their first dance as mates. They moved together with grace and ease, a perfect reflection of the harmony they had built in their relationship.

"It’s hard to believe she’s married now," Alex said, his voice tinged with emotion. "She’s always been my little sister, you know?"

Selene smiled and squeezed his hand. "She’ll always be your sister, Alex. But now, she’s also her own woman, with her own path to follow. And Damon will be there beside her."

Alex nodded, his heart at peace with the changes. He had always known this day would come, but it didn’t make it any easier to see his twin take this step. Still, he was proud. Proud of her strength, proud of her decision to marry Damon, and proud of the future they were building together.

As the night wore on, the pack celebrated long into the evening, their laughter and songs echoing through the forest. The pack was united, strong, and ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. And for Alex, watching his sister marry the man she loved, the future of Crescent Moon seemed brighter than ever before.