Love Bites (gxg)

Chapter 12

As Maeve's lips formed the word "Yes," my heart soared with joy. The entire kingdom seemed to erupt in jubilation. Cheers and applause filled the air, echoing through the grand hall where the royal ceremony was taking place. Seeing Maeve's smile, the love of my life, and now my mate, I couldn't have been happier.

The crowd's happiness was contagious, and I couldn't help but smile as I looked down at the emerald-green ring I had placed on Maeve's finger. It sparkled in the soft, golden light of the room, a symbol of our commitment to each other.

Maeve's eyes shimmered with emotion as she gazed up at me. She was my love, my mate, my everything. We had come so far, faced so many challenges, and now we were here, ready to embark on a new chapter of our lives together.

The king, an ancient vampire with wisdom etched into his ageless face, stepped forward to congratulate us. His presence commanded respect, and I felt a sense of validation in his warm words.

"May your love be eternal, and may your bond bring strength and prosperity to our kingdom," he said, raising his glass in a toast.

Maeve and I joined him, our hands intertwined, as the room raised their glasses in unison. The crystal chandeliers above us cast a soft, enchanting glow, making the moment feel like a dream.

The feast that followed was nothing short of extravagant. Tables groaned under the weight of delicious dishes, and musicians played lively tunes that had everyone dancing. Maeve and I were the center of attention, yet we didn't mind the spotlight. We were in love, and we were proud of it.

Throughout the evening, we mingled with the people of the kingdom, sharing stories and laughter. We received well-wishes and blessings from all walks of life, from nobles to commoners, each person touched by our love story.

As the night wore on and the celebration continued, I couldn't help but steal glances at Maeve. My heart swelled with love and gratitude. We had found our place in this world, together, and nothing could ever tear us apart.

When the feast finally began to wind down, Maeve and I retired to our new cottage, a charming and cozy home where we would begin our life as a married couple. The night was clear, and the stars shone brightly overhead.

As we settled into bed, Maeve snuggled close to me, resting her head on my chest. The room was filled with the soft, warm glow of candlelight, casting a romantic atmosphere around us.

I brushed my fingers through Maeve's white hair, savoring the feeling of our closeness. "I can't believe it," I whispered. "We're finally married."

Maeve looked up at me with adoring eyes. "I couldn't be happier, Alexandria. I love you more than anything."

Our lips met in a sweet, lingering kiss, sealing our love once more. In each other's arms, we drifted off to sleep, knowing that our future together held endless possibilities and boundless love.

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My heart was heavy with dread as I awoke to an empty space beside me. The warmth that had enveloped me all night had vanished, leaving only the cold emptiness of our bed. Panic gripped me as I sat up, scanning the room for any sign of Maeve.

My eyes fell upon a small piece of parchment placed deliberately on the bedside table. Fear gnawed at me as I recognized Dracula's unmistakable script. I snatched up the note, my hands trembling as I read his words.

"You will never see Maeve again."

The words struck me like a dagger to the heart. It was a chilling threat, a declaration of war from the vampire who had once been Maeve's father. He had taken her, and my mind raced with thoughts of the danger she now faced.