Chapter 50

Aina On the morning of my wedding, I sat in front of the mirror while the makeup artist carefully worked on my face. The room buzzed with activity—maids moving swiftly, some arranging my gown, others fussing over my shoes or carrying out last-minute tasks. “You don’t have to worry about anything, ma’am. Just focus on getting ready,” the wedding planner reassured me, and I gave a small nod. A knock came at the door, and one of the maids rushed to answer. I kept my gaze on the mirror, watching as colors slowly transformed my features—until a voice pulled me out of the moment. “Aina.” It was my mother. I turned quickly, my breath catching when I saw her. She wore a wine-colored suit with a matching skirt and hat, elegance radiating from her in a way I had never seen before. My lips curved into a smile. “Please excuse me,” I murmured to the artist, rising to meet her. “You look beautiful,” she said softly, her eyes shining as she nodded in approval. I grinned wider. “I was just about to say the same. I could barely recognize you.” She laughed gently, and for a moment, everything between us felt warm and genuine. The way she looked at me… she truly seemed happy for me. But then her tone shifted. “Are you sure you love him, Aina?” The question stunned me. “Yes,” I answered firmly, though inside I wondered why she would ask this now, of all days. Hadn’t she been the one to push me toward Osborne, even urging me to carry his child? Yet here she was, planting unease in my heart. Maybe my wolf’s warning was starting to settle into me more than I realized. She reached out, gently holding my hands. “If you are happy, then so are we. We’ll be waiting at the venue.” “Thank you, Mother,” I whispered. She studied me for another moment, her gaze unreadable, before giving a single nod and walking out. I exhaled slowly, my chest tightening. Very soon, I would no longer be Aina Wilfred. I would become Aina Cliff. And with that name came a lifetime of responsibility—one I was ready to embrace. I returned to my chair, letting the makeup artist finish her work. When I finally slipped into my gown, the room stilled. The fabric hugged me perfectly, shimmering under the light, and for a heartbeat I simply stared at my reflection. A smile curved across my lips. This was it—the day I would finally become one with Osborne. On the way to the venue, reports had already confirmed Osborne’s arrival. Everyone was waiting for me now. The moment we pulled up, guards moved swiftly to shield me, making my path clear as reporters gathered outside, cameras flashing. At the grand entrance, my eyes found my father. He stood tall in a black tuxedo with a wine-colored tie, his expression as composed as always. When he saw me, his lips curved into the faintest smile—a rare gesture from a man who never let his emotions show. In all my life, I had never truly seen him soften. Yet today, he did. “You look beautiful,” he murmured as I reached him. I smiled nervously and nodded. “Thank you, Dad.” He offered me his arm, and together we approached the enormous double doors. They swung open at once, and we stepped into the hall. The atmosphere shifted instantly. Guests filled the corners, their attention drawn to me. In respect, they rose to their feet as I began the walk down the aisle with my father by my side. My palms were clammy, my heartbeat unsteady. If not for his steadying presence, I might have stumbled. But then I looked up—and saw Osborne. It was as if the world melted away. The moment my gaze locked with his, my nerves evaporated. He looked devastatingly handsome, dignified, every bit the man I loved. His dark tuxedo fit him perfectly, his hair neat, his whole presence glowing with authority and pride. We hadn’t seen each other for two days, and perhaps that was why his stare was so intense—like I was the only thing that existed. My heart beat so loud I was sure my father could hear it. At the altar, Osborne extended his hand. My father placed mine in his, a silent yet powerful gesture—entrusting me to him. Standing side by side with him, I felt the weight of his gaze again. I lowered mine, too shy to meet it. “Your eyes will fall off if you keep staring,” I whispered with a small smile. His grip on my hand tightened. “Today,” the priest’s voice boomed, filling the hall, “we are gathered to witness the beginning of a new era for our pack—the union of the future Alpha of Silver Crest Pack and his chosen mate. Today, Osborne Cliff and Aina Wilfred seal their bond as one.” The words echoed in my ears as Osborne turned to me. Slowly, he lifted my veil, his eyes never leaving mine. I tilted my head, baring the spot where he had once claimed me before. His fangs elongated, sharp and gleaming, and then he sank them deep into my flesh. The pain burned hotter than the first time, but I bore it, clutching his hand. When he finally drew back, his lips stained faintly, the mark seared into me—permanent, undeniable. Before I could steady myself, Osborne stripped off his coat, unbuttoned his shirt, and bent his neck to me in offering. My heart raced as I leaned forward, mirroring what he had given me. With a deep breath, I let my fangs pierce his skin, claiming him as mine. And just like that, it was done. Our union was sealed. The hall erupted with cheers, voices rising in joy from every corner. For that moment, surrounded by celebration, it felt as if nothing could ever come between us. Now it was time for the reception, and I was overflowing with happiness. Osborne pulled me close, pressing a kiss to my cheek. “Are you sure you really want to be here for this part?” he teased, his voice low against my ear. “Why wouldn’t I?” I asked, amused. He smirked, his eyes darkening playfully. “Cut me some slack, Aina, before I lose my mind.” I laughed, my cheeks warming. Everyone’s eyes were on us, but Osborne didn’t care. He held me close, showering me with affection as though the crowd didn’t exist. One by one, guests approached us, their faces glowing with smiles, their words full of congratulations and blessings for our union. I responded to each of them happily, my heart swelling with pride and love. It felt perfect—almost too perfect. Because what I didn’t realize, as I basked in the joy of the moment, was that today would be the day I learned a truth I never imagined possible. A truth that would change everything.