The decision came easily one quiet evening on the mansion’s balcony.
Claire and Xander sat curled together on a wide outdoor lounge, a soft blanket wrapped around them as the sun dipped below the horizon. The completed mate bond hummed warmly between them, steady and peaceful. Claire’s new engagement ring caught the fading light, sparkling on her finger.
“I don’t want to wait,” Claire said softly, leaning her head on his shoulder. “We’re already mated. The bond is complete. I want the human world to know I’m yours too. A real wedding. With my parents, my Australian friends, and the pack celebrating openly.”
Xander pressed a kiss to her temple, his arms tightening around her. “Then let’s do it. No long engagement. We’ve waited long enough through all the pain and distance. I want to call
