Profound Devotion

Chapter 32

August 3rd
Monaia

The precipitous cliff's edge had been elaborately decorated, twinkling lights draping from tree to tree to illuminate every inch of the groomed field. Rows of chairs that had once been used in the dining hall were now covered with tea green cloths and tied at the back with a shimmery silver bow.

An arch of pinned flowers propped at the focal point of the area, where my brother as well as Jackson will soon stand with Sera and her mate to officially join their bond with both packs. It's not something all pack members had to do, but due to their higher rankings, it was important for our wolves to introduce their new titles to everyone.

I adjusted and readjusted the skirt of my dress and the sleeves that were digging into my skin, leaving red marks where they sat and itched with the material. My mother scolded me and fixed the dress from the back, helping it rest where it was meant to.

"Quit fidgeting. You look fine." She mumbled, smoothing my sleeves with the palms of her hands before stepping back and looking over her work with a proud smile. She'd made adjustments to the dress, not only making it tighter but giving it a layer of sparkle to match my sister's gown.

Syrene was gushing over her pink ensemble that went with her curled updo and shimmering diamond studs perfectly, all while Jamie finicked with her dress the same way I had been, seeming very uncomfortable being so adorned. She wore a scowl on her lips and flicked her long, wavy hair over her shoulder to get it out of her face.

"I don't know how you can wear something like this." She grumbled out loud, huffing when her skirt caught beneath her heels and nearly sending her to the dirt.

Seraphina grinned and shook her head, helping our friend stabilize herself in the shoes she had cursed many times that morning. "It's just for one day. I promise you can take them off after the ceremony."

She thanked my sister, but her frown was still marring her unhappy features. Although she didn't like her blue dress or thick makeup, I was sure Lance would think otherwise when he gets a glance of her.

My hands grew clammy as the time came to gather in the clearing. The sun was beginning to set, casting a soft glow over the water beneath the cliff and shadowing the portion of the area that wasn't already covered by the trees. My mother ushered the three of us in, keeping Sera hidden until it was her time to enter.

"Okay, ladies. You will be sitting in the first row. When prompted, you will join them up front for the blood portion of the ceremony."

I winced at the thought of the knife that would be slicing through my palm soon and cradled my hand into my chest.

"Now remember, just stay calm and everything will be over in no time. Any questions?"

We all shook our heads, ready to get this over with. As the three highest females in the pack at the current time, it was our job to welcome their bonds. They would have three of their own do the same, the position of male being filled by the Alphas.

Syrene was the first sent out. Most of the guests were already seated, some standing to the side with not enough chairs set up for them. She waved to her father, my own father's third in command, shaking her bouquet of wildflowers in the air. The green leaves and blush pink petals swayed from the sudden movement before settling back into her grip.

Jamie went next, plastering a fake smile across her face. She even rolled her eyes when Lance raked his over her, enjoying the rare chance he had of seeing her all dolled up. I couldn't help but giggle as she swatted him with her own bouquet as she passed, ignoring his playful growl or the laughter from our pack members.