“They’re ready,” he said.
I didn’t move, wanting to prolong the moment. Eventually we separated, and I took his hand as we made our way from the lake back to the compound. A chill raced down my back the moment we passed through the gate. Marcus was gone, but his presence lingered and would, I was sure, for many years to come.
We passed through the lower courtyard and stables and headed up the stairs leading to the French doors. Jahlem stood waiting, wearing a smile. Freckles I’d never noticed before played across his nose and cheeks, and a twinkle grew in his caramel eyes. Even his step was light, his shoulders relaxed. Happiness, Jahlem was happy for the first time in a hundred years. He had freedom and a purpose now, a purpose to help restore the Servak clan with Raina and Darrien.
“Cheyenne, Colt,” Jahlem greeted us warmly. He extended his arm towards the door. “They’re waiting in the study.”
My boots clacked on the marble floors, and I purposely made an effort not to glance up the stairs. It was bad enough being in the study of doom.
My eyes brightened as we entered. What used to be dark and dreary was now light and airy. Fresh color now lined the walls, and large picture windows had been added to the sidewall where none existed.
Raina rose from the couch, and I almost didn’t recognize her. Hair as white as bleached sand trailed over her shoulders and back, her olive complexion brightening her sky blue eyes. Even her clothing was no longer black. Instead, a bright lilac dress covered her tall, thin frame. Her cheeks were full and pink, and a light shone in her eyes I’d never seen before. This was the Raina my mother knew and loved.
“Cheyenne,” she extended her hand. “I’ve been waiting for you, cousin.”
I grasped her hand, my smile broadening. A tingling sensation erupted in my stomach. Family, I had family.
She pointed towards the couch, and we both took a seat. Darrien, Jahlem, and Colt stood nearby.
“I know this isn’t easy for you,” she said, her smile fading. “You never knew who I was before Marcus cursed me. You never knew me as Sahara and Maes did. You don’t know my strengths and weaknesses, and even I’m not sure what they are any longer.
“But I want you to know that without my Cloaker curse, I’m truly your loyal servant. I was one of the leaders of our rebellion, fighting to stop the Sarac from taking over, and you know I helped Sahara escape her wedding.” Her voice quieted. “I paid a terrible price and did many horrible things. For that I make no excuse.” She raised her head. “But I swear to you, I’ll live the rest of my life atoning for those mistakes. I want to heal our broken people, and make the Servak strong again as we once were.” She grasped my hand. “Give me the chance to right the wrongs I’ve caused, and restore our clan.”
I swallowed, knowing what I was about to give up.
“You’re right, Raina,” I said. “I don’t know you, or who you were before you were cursed. But I do know that you’re family, and the blood of the Servak clan runs through you as it does me.
“I was given second chances, and so should you. I’m entrusting you with the leadership of the Servak clan, to uphold our laws and to rule justly. To seek justice wisely and have compassion in place of punishment. Can you live by these laws? Will you seek to do what’s right in the eyes of the Timeless?”
Tears of joy rose in her eyes, and she smiled.
“I promise to uphold the laws for the Timeless, to rule justly and to be wise and have compassion in place of punishment.”
I pulled my Servak ring from my hand, and placed it on her right index finger. I grasped her hand, ensuring my Kvech ring touched hers, and closed my eyes. I began murmuring the words Dex had taught me, the words that would release my Servak powers to Raina, allowing her to be the clan leader.
I opened my eyes as the enchantment finished, watching the green aura float around her. Her eyes were closed and her head lifted high, absorbing the powers. She blinked, and the aura shattered. It was done.
Her eyes shimmered for a moment, and she sighed.
“So that’s what it feels like,” she whispered.
I swallowed, my throat suddenly dry.
“It’s like there’s a spring of water bubbling up in me,” she giggled. The spring I no longer had. “You won’t regret this, Cheyenne. And even if you’re not the clan leader any longer, you’re still a daughter of the Servak. Visit me anytime you need advice or help. My door will always be open.”
“I will.” I grabbed her in a brief hug; the closest I’d ever feel to my mother’s embrace.
Colt tapped my shoulder.
“That was well done, Cheyenne,” he said. “But it’s time to go.”
Darrien moved towards the back windows, stopping at the desk and opening a drawer. He pulled out a silver etched box. He held it reverently as he moved towards me.
“I believe you’ve been searching for this,” Darrien said, a proud smile growing. “May you finally find peace and happiness, Cheyenne.”
“Thank you, Darrien.” I gently took hold of the box.
I looked up at Colt, his gaze softening. The fall solstice was just around the corner. We wouldn’t have to wait another three months. He took hold of my hand, kissing my fingers, and hand in hand we headed for the terrace doors. We were moving on to our new lives, on to a blank future, one we’d create.
Destiny had found me…and lost.
*****
I stood staring out the back patio doors at our home, Selavon, watching the morning rays hit the lake. The fall solstice would be here in a matter of hours. And it would be only a matter of hours before I walked down the aisle for the third and final time.
Butterflies erupted in my stomach, and I pressed my eyes closed. I didn’t need to be nervous about it. After all, this would be my third time, but the fact that it was with Colt made all the difference in the world.
I sighed. After much pleading and begging, Lilly finally relented and gave up he plans of having a large wedding. It was going to be small and intimate, clan leaders and those closest to us, our family. However, since she’d given me a small concession, I had to do the same for her. She was in charge of everything, outside of picking out my dress. Layla had offered to make another, but I declined. I wanted everything to be different about this wedding. I wanted it to be mine.
The front door opened, and heavy footsteps neared.
“I didn’t think you’d be up yet,” Callon said quietly, “considering the party last night.”
I turned and smiled, remembering the dinner, the dancing and drinking we’d done the night before. Since Lilly was in charge, we had our night before celebration.
“Well, I didn’t drink as much as you boys,” I replied. “Timeless or not, I’m sure one of you must have a hangover.”
He chuckled and moved closer, his smile reaching his eyes.
“I just came by to pick up Colt’s tux,” he said. “He thinks Lilly left it in the closet. He didn’t want to bug her and get her all worked up again.”
I lifted a brow.
“Again?”
“Uh, yeah. After you left, Koda knocked over some flowers and stuff for the wedding. Let’s just say I’ve never seen Koda run so fast.”
I laughed.
“Well, feel free to look around,” I replied. “I won’t be getting ready for a little while yet.”
He nodded, but then hesitated.
“I’m really happy for you, Cheyenne,” he said softly. “I know we would’ve been content, but Colt, he’s always been the one for you.”
“Thank you,” I whispered and tears rose as I remember all he’d sacrificed for me. “You’re going to find your happiness too.”
“I already have,” he replied. “I already have.”
I turned back to the doors and stepped out, making my way to the small dock. Brightly colored leaves crunched under my feet as the cool September morning sent goosebumps down my arm. A familiar tingle hummed under my skin, sending warmth to my limbs.
I stopped at th
e edge of the dock, sitting and crossing my legs. Ripples appeared across the water’s surface as fish sought their morning meal, along with the occasional splash as they jumped about.
I couldn’t help but let my mind wander back to Colt, to his proposal. I smiled, as warmth filled me. It was here, on this very dock, that he’d asked me to marry him. We’d just returned from finding the braid.
The orange and red glow from the sunset tiptoed over the waters surface, as we sat mesmerized by the simple beauty. Colt’s warm breath touched my neck as he leaned in closer.
“There’s something I’ve been meaning to ask you, sweetheart,” he whispered near my ear. “Something that will change our lives forever.”
I leaned in closer, waiting for him to continue. He grasped my hand placing a warm kiss on my knuckles.
“There are so many things I could say, words that would tell you of my great love, but you already know. There are so many actions I could take to express my love, but none more than this,” Colt said.
He stood, taking me with him and then knelt on one knee. Butterflies erupted in my stomach knowing what was to come next.
“In all the years I’ve lived, I’ve never once met anyone like you who’s touched my heart more deeply, and enternally. Cheyenne Alexis, will you marry me? Will you spend the rest of enternity by my side?”
“Yes,” I whispered unable to utter more.
A commotion started over my shoulder, drawing me from my reviere, and I smiled as Lilly barked orders at Koda. The barn doors were fully open, and he was moving the tables inside. Daniel and Bree were setting up white wooden chairs, while Nakari’s auburn hair jumped beside Lilly with a bouquet of flowers.
I focused my attention back to the lake, and reached into my jacket pocket, pulling out a white gold wedding band. I twisted it in the sunlight, searching for the inscription.
The words jumped from the inside of the ring, and I smiled as I read.
I choose you.
It was simple, and truthful. It summed up our entire relationship. I’d always chosen him and always would. He’d always been my light in the darkest hour. He’d been the one who held my heart first, and he’d be the last. It had been a long, hard road to get here, but I knew it only made us stronger.
I only wished my parents could be here, all of them. My birth parents, Qaysean and Sahara, had fought so hard to save the Timeless race, and they never got to enjoy the freedom. And Gene and Alexis, they never gotten to see all the love and warmth they instilled in me. My fathers would never get to walk me down the aisle, and I’d never see my mothers’ tears as they cried when I was given away.
I closed my eyes, replaying more memories, when a hand touched my shoulder.
“Cheyenne?” Andre said and I jumped. “Sorry, you were so deep in thought.”
I stood up and glanced at the sky. The sun had fallen more than I realized.
“We need to get ready.”
I nodded and followed her back inside. I’d asked Andre to help me prepare. I only wanted her around.
It wasn’t long before I was sliding the silk dress up, and Andre buttoning up the back. I stood in the bathroom, admiring the creation I’d found. It was a vintage dress. The creamy satiny material fell off my shoulders, creating a romantic feel, while the bodice was smooth and fitted, creating curves I didn’t know existed. The gemstones sparkled in the light as they ran around the dress just above the skirt. Turning, I saw the deep plunge on my back, my golden skin showing through, and a small train that I’d requested.
Andre handed me the white stilettos. She’d told me I needed to seem taller if even for just a little while. As I straightened up, she made the final adjustments on my hair. It was simple, just a few ringlets pulled back, holding the crown of flowers in place. I hadn’t bothered with finding new, blue, or borrowed pieces. I didn’t need them.
“Ready?” Andre asked.
I nodded, somehow suddenly unable to speak, and took a breath as fluttering erupted again in my stomach.
“Nerves?” she said when I didn’t move.
“Yes.”
She lifted my small train and pointed to the bedroom.
“Too late to change your mind now.” She winked. “I mean, seriously, you’d think you’d get it right the third time.”
I couldn’t help but smile.
“Thanks,” I said.
I took slow careful steps to the patio door from my bedroom. Daniel and Bree stood outside, waiting.
“Here, let me help,” Bree said, picking up part of the train to help Andre.
“Shall we?” Daniel asked, holding out his arm.
I took his arm as we made our way through the cut grass to the barn. The large sliding doors were closed, but I could hear the soft music playing from outside. Andre and Bree helped arrange my train as Daniel waited. A side door opened, and Lilly came out.
Lilly handed me a bouquet that was filled with brilliant fall colors: yellow, burnt orange, rust, and deep gold. It was tied with a white silk ribbon that hung loosely at the bottom.
“You can’t be without this,” she said, her voice faltering. She leaned in, kissing my cheek. “I know your parents would have wanted to be here for this, and they are in spirit.”
Tears formed in my eyes, and I bit my upper lip.
“I know they are,” I whispered.
She, Andre, and Bree disappeared inside the same side door, while Daniel and I waited just outside. The sun’s rays were hitting the top of the barn. Sunset was when we’d be wed, at the exact moment of the fall solstice.
The heavy barn doors slid open, and I smiled as Daniel squeezed my arm. I’d asked him to walk me down the aisle for the final time. My brother, forever and always.
We took our first steps together into the enormous barn. Dim lighting came from the hundreds of small lights above us. White chairs lined the aisle, decorated with ribbons and flowers. The scent of fresh flowers drifted around us.
My family rose, and I caught my first glimpse of the man who held my heart. Colt stood tall, his black tuxedo and crisp white shirt tailored perfectly to his large frame. His posture wasn’t stiff, but relaxed. He held his hands at his sides, his weightless gaze solely locked on me. He gave a long slow blink and a brilliant smile rose. He stepped closer as Daniel and I stopped before him.
Daniel squeezed my arm and placed a kiss on my cheek. He started to step away, but Colt drew him into a hug instead. Moisture beaded at his eyes, and then his gaze focused on me. He extended his hand, and I gave him my fingers as he led me to stand in front of Dex.
Any nerves rolling in the bottom of my stomach ceased. A peace washed over me, and our eyes remained locked as Dex began to speak.
“I didn’t know if you two would ever have this moment,” Dex said, his voice faltering. “But we’re here now, and I know this was meant to be.”
Lilly stepped closer, taking my bouquet and handing me Colt’s ring. I’d warned Dex I was changing the ceremony. First I’d asked that he not use Marcus’s last name Guerry, as I never took it. And second, I wanted Colt to have his ring before our powers were woven into the braid.
“This ring,” I said holding it up, “symbolizes our eternal love. Love that’s brought us near and far, love that’s held strong, love that was always dear to me.”
Colt lifted his left hand and I pushed the ring on.
“I choose you, Colt, always,” I whispered.
He reached into his pocket, pulling out a platinum vintage ring, one with a center stone that was accented with four smaller single cut diamonds on each side. A ring I knew and recognized. The ring that Marcus had stolen from me.
I stared up into icy blue eyes.
“This ring,” he said, “represents my love for you—our family’s love for you. A love that’s held strong, a love that was always meant to be.” He slipped the ring on my ring finger and placed a kiss on my knuckles. “This ring was always meant for you, sweetheart. It could never belong to another.”
Tears
misted in my eyes, he’d said “our family’s love,” and I knew exactly what he’d meant.
Lilly moved to stand beside Dex. She held a small metal carved box. She opened it, and Dex pulled out the old, worn leather braided rope. The Braid del Amour, the braid of love.
I grasped Colt’s forearms as he grasped mine, and we watched as Dex began to wrap it around our connected hands.
“As the Braid del Amour is wrapped around your arms, we are reminded this braid, as our lives, is twisted together in a myriad of different ways. You each bring in your own parts, and combine them together to form one union. One union that shall forever remain strong, one union that will eternally remain united in love,” Dex said.
He turned towards Colt.
“Colt, repeat after me,” he said. “I, Colt Adrian O’Shea, of the Consilador clan, pledge my love and my life to you, Cheyenne Alexis Wilson. To forever be your partner in life and your one love. I will cherish each moment I have with you more each day than the day before. I will trust you and rule with you. I will laugh and cry with you. I will love you faithfully no matter the outcome, regardless of the trials we shall face. I give you my heart and my soul from this day forward as long as we both shall live and until death we should part.”
I listened as Colt repeated the vow, and watched as the Braid began to give off a blue hue, just as it had when it was used with Callon and Marcus. Colt’s hold firmed and his head rose as he finished his vows.
“Cheyenne,” Dex said, “repeat after me…”
“I, Cheyenne Alexis Wilson, of the Kvech and Sarac clans, pledge my love and life to you, Colt Adrian O’Shea.” My words grew clearer, knowing it was so much more than just a pledge between clans. I was pledging my life to him willingly. The Braid’s glow grew brighter. “To forever be your partner in life and your one love. I will cherish each moment I have with you more each day than the day before…”
My vision began to clear as I listened to the words spilling from my lips, my heartbeat strong.
“I give you my heart and my soul from this day forward as long as we both shall live and until death we should part.”
Awakening: A Timeless Series Novel, Book Four Page 37
