He smiles faintly. "You really have fallen into the Luna role so perfectly. Look at you fixing my mistakes."
I smirk. "Or being devious—you're too truthful. I'll text Valerie," I say, reaching for my phone.
"Are you certain about this?" he asks quietly, placing a hand over mine.
"I am," I answer. He nods.
"Then go ahead. You are my priority, Adriana. And as selfish as it might sound, I will put you first, no matter what it costs me."
His words make my heart skip a beat as I comb my fingers through his hair. "Then lucky for us, I won't let you make unreasonable sacrifices. Go get changed for bed. I'll message Val."
He nods, kissing me deeply before he reluctantly pulls back and gets up. I watch him undo his belt as he disappears into the adjoining bathroom and quickly text Valerie.
I wait, hoping she sees it tonight. The phone beeps and I see her incoming message.
VALERIE: You really are the only one for him. Trust me, I've seen him look at Zaia—and I've seen him look at you. There's a huge difference. I'm on it. I'll say that I thought I'd sent the message but didn't realize I hadn't, as I was so excited. It's not wrong—I'm so excited.
ADRIANA: lol, thanks, Val.
VALERIE: You're amazing, and I do think it's sweet of Atticus to be understanding too—this is why you two are the perfect couple.
I smile.
ADRIANA: Thanks, babe.
VALERIE: Anytime. Now try not to sleep too late. You have a long day and night ahead of you tomorrow, too.
I smirk. Night… sounds about right.
ADRIANA: We do. See you then.
I put my phone down, feeling lighter and happier as I sink into the lush bedding waiting for my mate.
I could get used to this….
The next day dawns bright and clear—and it was indeed busy. The entire pack is bustling. The décor is divine: dark purple and pink flowers, a blanket of stars masking the ceilings, hanging candles in crackled glass lanterns, and every tablecloth, flower arrangement, and curtain draped in deep pinks, purples, and black. Those are the colors Nicole had ordered the guests to wear—though I'd said I didn't mind if they wore whatever they wanted. But Nicole, Linette, and Valerie were not having it.
To my relief, Atticus' other sister doesn't mind me either, and she seems relieved that her brother is finally settling down, reminding him he isn't young anymore. If only she knew just how much stamina he has—but that's not something I'm about to tell his sister.
Her mate Andrew and the kids are nice too, and I think once I spend a little more time with them, I'll be more open and able to build better relationships. I want to—for Atticus.
I now look at my reflection. I'm all ready. My stomach is a fluttering mess as I gaze at the dress I'd picked out and run my hands down my hips. It's as beautiful as everything else for tonight—just as extravagant, too. Looking at my reflection, my heart skips a beat.
The woman in the mirror is me—but at the same time, I look… breathtaking. I had debated between this gown and one with sleeves to cover my burns, but in the end, I chose this one, knowing it's what Atticus would prefer too.
What am I hiding? These burns, these scars—they are a part of me. And if Atticus can accept me, then I really don't care what anyone else thinks. My nails are a pretty French manicure with tiny gems, and I'm wearing silver heels. A few beaded pearl necklaces and large earrings complete my look.
"Wow, you look beautiful," Linette says as she and Valerie enter. They're both in deep purple gowns—only a shade or two different. Valerie's is flowing, cinched at the waist with thin straps and a slit down the right leg. It's similar to what Nicole is wearing, which is just a bit more pink. Linette's is an off-shoulder mermaid gown, fitted through the thighs, with a slit down her left leg.
"She really does," Valerie says, looking all emotional.
"And so do you both," I reply.
"You know, I was losing faith that Atticus would ever find a Luna—and he didn't just find one. He found such a gorgeous one." Linette smiles. "I feel relieved!"
Me and Valerie laugh. "I'm glad he waited though," I admit softly.
"Yeah, me too," Valerie says, hugging me as Linette nods.
"I won't put too much pressure on you since you just got together—but I do hope you think about having babies soon," she whispers, making my eyes fly open.
What?
Before I can reply, the music comes on.
"Oh shoot—time to go," Valerie says. My stomach somersaults. Nerves are everywhere.
I haven't seen Atticus all day—and I miss him. I want to see him again fast… but at the same time, it means the moment has come.
To mark one another.
Moonlight Museumo