FOUR PART 2

Isabelle’s Point of View

The room grew increasingly tense, causing my skin to prickle with unease. My inner wolf whimpered, sensing the mounting aggression and my own need to assert dominance over Malik. As if that would be an easy feat. He could hold his ground and match my strength, always keeping me on my toes.

A soft, apprehensive knock echoed at the door.

My heart sank.

"It's time, Isabelle. Everyone is waiting outside, including your father," a voice called out, breaking the heavy silence that enveloped the room. My father, the one who had orchestrated this arrangement, insisted that before I took over as pack leader, Malik and I must undergo a traditional mating ceremony. However, deep down, I sensed his doubts about my capability and dedication to Malik. It seemed he was using this night to test me and push me towards a decision.

Tonight, under the black moon, the time had come for me to face my father's expectations. I had known since my return to the pack that this moment would eventually arrive. Memories of past heartaches threatened to resurface, but I firmly shut that door in my mind. The past belonged to the past, and I had to focus on the present.

Confident in my commitment to both Chase and Malik, I stood up with determination. I knew that my wolf and I needed both of them in our lives, and Chase understood this more than anyone.

"I'll be right out," I replied, my voice barely a whisper. I extended my hand towards Malik, a gesture of readiness to face what awaited us outside. However, instead of taking my hand, he firmly grasped my shoulders, drawing me closer until our bodies pressed together. In an instant, his lips captured mine, igniting a fire within me that burned with intensity.

The kiss was more than a simple meeting of lips. It was a declaration of possession, an act that left no doubt about his claim over me. It was as if he was pouring all his desires and longing into that single embrace, overwhelming me with a mixture of sweetness and sensuality that I couldn't resist.

When our lips finally parted, I staggered backward, momentarily caught off guard. Yet, I quickly regained my composure, finding my footing once again. His eyes, a mesmerizing shade of deep blue, locked with mine, radiating a raw, unbridled need. In that moment, I yearned to lose myself in his gaze, to surrender to the passion that consumed us both. But duty called, reminding us of the purpose behind these rituals.

We had waited patiently, biding our time for the perfect moment to fully embrace the ritual in its entirety. And tonight, with Chase at our side, we would embark on this journey together, bound by love and destiny.

"Don't worry. Once all of this is done, we'll make it right with Chase," he assured me, flashing that mischievous, devil-may-care grin that always made my heart race. He had a knack for causing trouble, but it was part of what drew me to him.

"Absolutely. Let's get going," I replied, feeling a surge of anticipation as we made our way down the stairs. Malik led the way, and I followed closely behind him, ready to face the gathering waiting for us outside my home. A sea of eager faces awaited our arrival.

As we stepped forward, my father approached and enveloped me in a warm embrace. "You look stunning tonight, Isabelle. Your mother would be so proud."

"Thank you, Father," I replied, keeping my words simple, determined to hold back any emotions that might trigger tears. This was a night of celebration, a time to set aside past wounds and sorrow. I would save my doubts about my father for another day.

He turned towards the expectant crowd. "Let's begin."

One by one, we moved forward in a solemn procession, making our way towards the sacred clearing. It was an ancient tradition that my father held dear, and the pack eagerly followed his lead, honoring his wishes.

Surrounded by the encompassing darkness of the night, my senses heightened as if awakened by some primal instinct. The earthy aroma of the damp soil filled my nostrils, while the soft caress of grass and leaves tickled my bare feet. The gentle breeze whispered through the air, the only audible sound in the stillness of the woods. The presence of our shifter pack moving in unison seemed to halt the nearby wildlife in its tracks.

After a brief journey, we arrived at the clearing. I positioned myself one step behind my alpha, standing at the forefront of the pack. My father raised his hands, signaling a call to action, and in response, every member of the pack shed their cloaks, revealing their naked forms in all their raw glory.

Following their lead, I too discarded my cloak, and in that moment, my wolf senses sharpened. I could taste the palpable magic swirling around us, my awareness expanding. My eyes became keener, capturing every detail, and my hearing intensified, capturing even the faintest of sounds. A gust of wind swept through, carrying with it the familiar scent of the human protectors stationed nearby. They formed a protective perimeter, ensuring our safety within the circle and reinforcing the guards scattered throughout the town.

My mind sifted through the mingling scents until I detected the familiar one I sought. Standing behind me, just a short distance away, was Chase. He had been my protector since the time I reached maturity and became affected by the moon's cycles. The fact that I was vulnerable for a day each month still chipped away at my pride, but I had unwavering trust in Chase. I knew he would sacrifice himself to ensure my safety if it ever came to that. No, I banished the thought from my mind. Nothing would harm Chase. Throughout my father's reign as pack leader, no one had dared to attack us during our vulnerable times. The secret of our lunar weakness was guarded fiercely, known only to wolves and our guardians.

As always, Chase's presence calmed my restless wolf and allowed me to fully take in my surroundings. The restless movements of the eager pack members, the authoritative voice of my father resonating through the air, and the potent surge of desire brewing among the pack.

Yes, tonight would be a very good night for me and Malik.