CALIFF
“God, this is ridiculous. Is this really necessary? I’d rather wear an oversized suit than this.” It wouldn’t be Shadow without complaining of her beautiful floor-length white gown and silver-white hair in a halo braid.
“Leave us,” I ordered the staff of five women, making her beautiful. She didn’t need them. Shadow was already gorgeous. “Yes. Your father said it is.”
“I missed my hair.” She touched her locks, still complaining, turning silver-white when she became Lycan and hybrid again.
Getting her wolf back was one of the highlights of the night, but even Zarah couldn’t explain the changes in Shadow’s hair color.
“I like this more. You look like a goddess.”
“You’re just saying that because you love me.” I groaned.
“I love you, baby, but I swear you’re beautiful in this color. It pops out the color of your eyes. I’m pretty sure Raven would agree.”
“I look like Elsa, Califf.” That one made me chuckle.
“So you’re on team Anna?”
“Shut up. You’re not funny.”
“I like you, brunette, even maybe purple. You can always pull it off in any hair color, but this one is significant to both of us.” I touched the loose strands on the side of her face. “So, now stand up, and the ceremony is about to begin. And remember why we are doing this.”
“I know.” She rolled her eyes. “You don’t have to remind me constantly.”
“It’s for our benefit, baby. Now, be a princess and put on that beautiful smile. You look stunning, by the way.”
She blew a breath and stood up. “Let’s get this over with so I can go and eat ice cream.”
I chuckled as I stood behind her for the entourage.
Before me were the members of Lycan Council carrying the tiara and representatives from Werewolf Council, and High Priestess Margaret holding the chalice as we walked down the aisle of the palace.
Sitting in the King’s chair was Sebastien in his royal outfit, adorning the Lycan royal symbol on his chest and a crown on his head.
The head of the Werewolf and Lycan council stood on both sides, while I, as a mate, stood to the right.
The King raised. High Priestess Margaret came with the chalice.
“Do you swear to abide by the rules of Lycan, uphold the law, and be the defender of justice?”
“I do, solemn swear.”
“Do you swear to pay true allegiance to the Majesty, the Lycan King, to your heirs and successors?”
“I do, solemn swear.”
The High Priestess gave her the chalice, and Shadow took a sip. With the help of the two representatives, they put on her the red robe embroidered with the Royal Lycan symbol.
Shadow went on her knees. Sebastien took the princess tiara and put it on his daughter’s head. “The Lycan Princess, Shadow Raven Hawks Locklear – Stone.”
Shadow stood up and turned to face her audience as the crowned Lycan Princess. Her smile was mesmerizing. I did not doubt that she would be a great princess and make history in her reign.
It was in her blood, her destiny, to unite everyone, rule, and be the epitome of hope. She carried it since birth, and I couldn’t be prouder to be her mate.
The party just started after signing the documents as the prince’s consort. Some of my pack members were here to support their Luna and their Alpha. Kindra and Duke didn’t miss the ceremony. My parents and her adopted father, Kent. Of course, her close friends, including Kain. Our allies, including Alpha Frye and Alpha Grady, would not miss this celebration. So, it began with a royal ball dance.
“Hello, princess. Aren’t you a sight for sore eyes? I have a room upstairs. Do you mind sneaking out after this?”
“Does it really work?” She arched a brow as she pressed her chest against mine, and I got the chance to put my hand on her back as part of the dancing choreography.
“Not all the time, but the room was pretty big.”
“Just don’t call me princess again, or you’re dead.”
“Scary princess. I heard you can shoot a thousand yards away. It’s just exactly the girl I’m looking for. Mysterious, pretty platinum blonde hair and gray eyes with sinful lips.” I held her hand for a spin before she returned to my arms.
“Are you hard right now, Alpha?”
“One way to find out. I will keep the door open, princess. I’ll be waiting.”
“Don’t get your hopes up, Alpha. You need to get in line.”
“Is that so? Does any of them defeat a Lycan warrior?”
“Wew. You got a pretty impressive resume, Alpha, but I locked a target at someone, and it’s not you.”
“We’ll see.” One more spin, I held her tight and didn’t let her go. “You’re mine, little rogue.”
After the dance, we met some allies and high-ranking officials from the conclave and the council. Then, a lavish five-course banquet began.
I mostly ignored it when they talked about werewolves and Lycan’s business. I was anticipating the after-party where I could get the princess naked in bed.
Thankfully, after a long six-course meal, the dinner ended. Some guests, including Kent, left after bidding goodbyes to his daughter, and others stayed.
“Alpha Knight.” I shook his hand. “Should I expect to receive a pack party invitation soon?”
Alpha Knight was a young Alpha from the Californian White Moon Pack. He was handsome, tall, with cinnamon brown hair like that one guy in a boy band group that most girls threw themselves at him, but with shorter hair.
I was just like him before I met Shadow, mainly focused on two things- getting rich and ruling a pack. Things changed when I found my mate. And I had high hopes he would meet his mate sooner.
“For my mate? Nah.” He shook his head. His forest green eyes sparkled in amusement. “I need to focus on the pack. Look what you did with yours. I admire you, and you inspired me to be a better and responsible Alpha.”
“I was just like you before I met Shadow. Trust me, once you meet your mate, your priority shifts. Of course, pack matters, but it’s always good to have a partner, and two brains are better than one. Take it from me, Knight.”
“I hope you enjoy the party, Alpha Knight. Good to finally put a face on the mysterious Knight.” Shadow offered her hand for a handshake, but charming Knight bowed and kissed her hand instead.
“You’re beautiful in person, my princess. I apologize for not making it to your wedding.”
“Aw. Thanks. And you sent your Beta on your behalf.” Shadow giggled. “You haven’t found your mate, right?”
“I was just talking about it with him.” I put my hand on her back.
“Well, I’m always ready for a party, Alpha Knight. I can’t wait to see a mark on your neck. Enjoy the party and have some fun. And look around. Maybe somewhere in these werewolves and lycan girls is your mate.”