Testing Fate

by Belinda Boring

  “I walked through the door and saw her standing there, wearing her favorite jeans and t-shirt. I remembered thinking I was glad to be spending time with her. I just didn’t realize how significant it was until I completed my trial and they sent me home.”

  I remembered that shirt. We’d been shopping in town and walked past the thrift store when Jasmine saw it displayed in the window. She had a thing for all things vintage and for a few dollars, it had been a bargain. The bold, colorful Girls Just Wanna Have Fun became her motto. The last time I’d seen her in it, the fabric was getting pretty threadbare. She hadn’t cared though. It was her favorite and she would continue wearing it until it disintegrated. The memory caused a tug on my heartstrings.

  “Are you okay?” I laced my fingers between his, resting our hands on his stomach.

  “Honestly, I am. It was amazing, Darcy. Don’t get me wrong, the challenges I faced were tough and for a moment there, I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to make it through. But I had my baby sister with me. She helped keep me motivated and focused, made sure I didn’t get too discouraged.”

  “Devlin did the same for me,” I added, softly. “Seems the Fates chose well when they decided who to send with us.”

  “We would sit up all night and just talk about anything and everything. Jasmine would tell me stories from our childhood, reminding me how much she loved me and how proud she was of her big brother. We laughed and laughed over the trouble we got into and we talked about our dreams for the future. In those moments, I didn’t know she was really gone, that I’d been given one last time with her. In the last test, the Moirai revealed that, in reality, I’d lost Jasmine, and the truth almost crushed me. They then told me I could have my sister returned to me, or I could choose to continue. I still didn’t know why I was participating in the Heart or Death, but my gut told me I had to keep going. Saying goodbye to Jasmine again was, without a doubt, the hardest of all the challenges. I won’t lie and say I didn’t falter.”

  My heart broke for him. Mason adored his sister, loved her deeply and her death was still something he’d fought to accept. I had no doubt the offer made him pause, especially if it meant he could have her back—to hold, to see, to listen to and touch. I don’t know how he found the strength.

  My silence told him what I was thinking, our connection was working again. “I found the strength the same way you did when facing your challenges. I kept going because I knew whatever I was fighting for was worth it and was bigger than whatever they tempted me with. I realized that the more enticing the offer, the greater prize must be. When I declined and my memories returned, your face was so clear in my mind and the love I felt for you so powerful, I knew. I love Jasmine with all my heart. I would do anything to have my beloved sister back, but not if it meant giving you up. You are vital to my survival now, Darcy. And you’re mine.”

  I nestled deeper into him and was rewarded with his arms tightening around me. His admission stunned and humbled me. Just when I thought I couldn’t love Mason more, he said something like this and I fell harder. I could say what I wanted about the trials we faced, but there was no denying the process had forged us into a stronger couple.

  “I’m sorry you had to choose,” I murmured into his chest.

  “I’m not. Now that I know what was really at stake, I’m glad I followed my instinct. I would’ve still chosen you, had I remembered you. This whole adventure with the Moirai taught me a valuable lesson, don’t mess with fate. For whatever reason, Jasmine’s time came sooner than we all wanted. I don’t like it, but I’m learning to accept it. She may not be here with us physically, but I know we’ll see her again. As long as I have that hope, I’m okay.”

  “I love hearing you talk like this, Mason. I’m glad you were able to find some peace through all this. I worried about your holding it all your emotions in and not sharing.”

  Mason chuckled softly, the sound echoing through his chest into my ear. “I knew everyone was also grieving over Jasmine’s death. It was so sudden and the fact she was killed by someone we all thought was a friend, was unbearable. It really shook the Pack. Plus, as Alpha, I wanted to be strong for everyone and not burden members with my own grief. I know that was misguided, but old habits die hard. The time with Jasmine really helped me come to terms. Some of the things she said to me, I’ll always hold on to.”

  “As long as you also remember you’re not alone anymore.” I gently slapped him, meaning to scold him lightly. “We’re a team and that means we rely on each other. No matter how scary or how bad things get, we always share what we’re thinking and feeling. We don’t close the other out, even if we think we have good intentions. I don’t ever want you to think you can’t confide in me.”

  “Haha. Jasmine gave me the same advice.” I could hear the smile in his voice. “I promise, Darcy. Me and you . . . forever.”

  “I promise too.” I raised my head and lay a kiss on the underside of his chin. “Forever . . . I love the sound of that.”

  “So you keep saying.” Mason grinned and the sight sent a flip flopping sensation through me.

  There was another knock at the door, followed by a muffled, “Hello”. I was perfectly content to ignore this one as well. Mason, however, had other ideas and slid himself out of my embrace before standing.

  “Can’t we just pretend we’re asleep for a little longer?” I asked, watching him walk across the room. I was definitely torn at the moment. I didn’t want to let go of the much needed alone time with Mason, but a flicker of excitement broke through my selfishness as I sat up to greet whoever was at the door.

  “I actually want you to visit with this person,” Mason replied over his shoulder and I caught the knowing look. This was planned. Opening the door, he greeted the visitor and the feminine voice of Harmony floated over the air.

  A wide smile broke across my face and I rushed over. “Harmony! What are you doing here?”

  “Well, I got a phone call earlier from a certain groom-to-be saying that his beautiful bride-to-be was in need of a dress.” Harmony winked, a mischievous twinkle in her eye. “So here I am and at your beckon call, honey.”

  It was proof my mind had been preoccupied by the Fates. I’d completely forgotten about my wedding dress. The dress I’d picked out. The dress I’d dreamed about, chosen, and loved, had been destroyed by Amber. I’d stopped her from casting the obsession spell on Mason, and in return, she’d taken her fury out on the dress. She’d thought by ripping it, she could convince Mason I’d attacked her. Thankfully, he’d known better.

  “I can’t believe I forgot,” I whispered, my hand covering my mouth. “That dress was so perfect.” Mason’s arms instantly wrapped around me.

  “I know you loved it, but trust me, okay? Everything will work out.” Harmony chattered, reaching for my hand so she could pull me out of the bedroom.

  “Go with her, sweetheart. Don’t think of anything but tomorrow and how much you’re going to dazzle me walking down the aisle.” Slowly he released me from his grasp, nodding his head with approval. Looking over me to Harmony, Mason mouthed thank you before adding, “Spare no expense. Whatever she wants, she gets.”

  Throwing one last grateful glance at him, I joined Harmony, heading toward Mason’s office.

  “We’re not going to my bedroom?” I asked confused.

  “You’ll see,” she answered.

  Full of dramatic showmanship, Harmony threw open the door to the Alpha’s private sanctum and my eyes widened in disbelief.

  It was a white, wedding, wonderland.

  And it was all for me.

  Chapter Eighteen

  I woke up with a smile. I didn’t need to open my eyes, I knew where I was. I was home and today was my wedding day. Finally.

  Stretching my body, a long, soft moan escaped my mouth, excitement buzzed inside me. I’d been waiting for this day for so long. I’d gone through so much and nothing was going to stop the ritual from happening later tonight. Come hell or high water, Mason and I wer
e going to be bound together—mates, lovers, friends forever.

  My room was quiet, reminding me of the calm before the storm. Once everyone knew I was up and about, I wouldn't get a private moment to myself. There was still so much to do but Mason had ordered me to worry only about getting ready and leave the details to pack members. I could hear them moving about the house, an eager energy filling the air from the bustle. Everyone was ready for some joy.

  Good morning, beautiful. Even though the greeting was in my mind, Mason’s voice flowed through our connection and caused my heart to flutter. I could imagine the lopsided smile he was wearing, the twinkle in his eyes, and the way his hair was falling across his forehead. After tonight, he’d officially be mine.

  Morning, I answered. I was just thinking about coming to find you. Harmony had been adamant last night about keeping the two of us separated until the ceremony; but I was impatient. The goodnight kiss we’d shared last night seemed to go on for hours—neither of us wanting to let go. Lying in bed, I’d touched my lips again and realized how significant it had been. The next time I kissed Mason, it would be as his wife and mate.

  There was no response. I released a heavy sigh, a spark of frustration breaking through my otherwise tranquil mood. Our connection was so sketchy at times and we still had no idea why it fluctuated.

  That’s a problem for another day, I told myself, sitting up so I could use the bathroom. Something to worry about, tomorrow.

  My stomach growled as I padded across the room, flicking on the bathroom light so I could peer at the mirror. I didn’t know whether it was just my romantic notions or truth, but my reflection looked different today. No matter how many times I turned my head or how many faces I made, the results were the same—I glowed. My eyes were bright, my skin flawless, and I could keep my mouth from curling into a wide smile. I was beyond happy.

  Finishing my morning routine and in desperate desire for food, I was shocked when my alarm clock caught my attention. It was already midmorning and people had left me to sleep as long as I wanted. Usually I was an early riser, often enjoying those first hours after dawn to walk or run, I wasn’t used to such leisure. Worry filled me. I was behind whatever wedding schedule there was and whirling around, I began throwing on clothes.

  Hopping as I tried to get my shoe on, there was a knock on the door and in came April, carrying a tray. “Where are you going?” she asked, putting her load down on the bed and offering her arm so I could steady myself. I quickly hugged my younger pack sister.

  “I’m running late!” I answered. “I was just going to grab something to eat and find out what’s going on. I know I have things to do . . . wedding stuff.” There was definitely an obvious hint of panic in my tone.

  “I brought you something to eat.” She gestured to the food tray again, smiling. “Sit down and see if having something in your stomach will help. I got you a little of everything, so try to relax. There’s no rush.”

  “I beg to differ. I overslept and now I’m hours behind on everything.” I tried to go around her, but she shook her head and pointed behind me. I cocked my head, noting the firm look on April’s face and it reminded me of Mason.

  “You should also know that you’ve been ordered to stay in your room today. Everything has been taken care of and whatever you need will be brought to you. So, no more panicking. Just sit.” April gave me that look, again. “And eat.”

  “Mason taught you that face, didn’t he?” I laughed, relenting and sitting back on my bed. A quick survey of the tray showed me a buffet of French toast, a bowl of mixed fresh fruit, and sugared oatmeal. There was also a glass of orange juice and a long stemmed red rose in a small vase. At the base was a folded card. Opening it up, I saw Mason’s familiar handwriting. See you at dusk. He’d drawn a crooked heart and signed it with a simple M.

  Leaning forward, I deeply inhaled, the beautiful fragrance from the rose filling my nose. My heart rate began to steady and the frazzled feeling that had been taking over was also slipping away. I remembered Devlin’s words again, about being in the moment, and it also helped. I let out another sigh, this one releasing the rest of my tension.

  “So then, what’s on my schedule?” I picked a small blueberry from among the fruit and popped it into my mouth. Juice coated my tongue when I bit into it and I moaned with satisfaction. They were delicious.

  “Well, after breakfast,” April paused, leaning in like she had an exciting secret. “Mason has a surprise for you.”

  “He does? What is it?” Food was momentarily forgotten while I tried to wheedle the truth from my friend. “Come on, you have to tell me!” I grabbed her hand, laying on an extra heavy dose of pleading to my voice as she fervently shook her head.

  “Oh no, I promised my Alpha I wouldn’t tell.” I didn’t miss the way she emphasized the word Alpha. I don’t know what Mason had told her to keep her from spoiling his surprise but there was no extracting it from her. He’d figuratively sealed her lips.

  “Ooooh, he’s playing unfairly if he pulled the Alpha card!” I laughed, releasing my hold on her hands. “It’s okay, I’m patient.” I picked up a half slice of the toast, dipping it into the cup of syrup, and took a bite. “I can wait forever.”

  April just nodded, knowing that I was lying through my teeth.

  I grinned when I heard another knock. “Thank goodness! I bet this is it.”

  I bounded over, ready to discover whoever and whatever was on the other side and squealed with excitement when I flung open the door. Standing there with smiles and cocked eyebrows were my parents. I didn’t hesitate. I pulled my mother in and quickly embraced her.

  “You’re here!” I exclaimed. Whatever strained relationship we’d had over the years was all forgotten, as my father murmured hello and closed the door behind him. I released my mother and hugged him, grateful for the awkward way he patted my back. Even now, he was uncomfortable with displays of affection.

  I invited them into my bedroom, giving them a moment to adjust and look around. I wanted them to see just how happy I was here, that the decision to move away from them and into the Mystic Wolves pack continued to be a good one. They’d visited on other occasions, but I often thought they still held onto the belief that I’d grow tired of Mason and leave. It had been my M.O. in the past—never staying long enough to forge connections. That had all changed the day I’d answered my door and found Mason on my doorstep.

  “Of course, we’re here. We received a phone call from Daniel telling us to hurry and get here as quickly as possible.” My mother’s gaze looked me up and down. “We would never miss your wedding, but first things first. I don’t care what noble intentions you have, don’t you ever keep us in the dark, again. Do you hear me? I shouldn’t have to hear about this she-devil from someone other than my daughter.”

  The rebuke was clear. I hadn’t wanted to worry my parents, my mother in particular, and had purposely kept all the drama with Amber from her. I realized now that not only had she heard how close I’d come to dying from someone else, but also about my being taken by the Moirai. Shame filled me and I bowed my head, guiltily.

  “I didn’t want to worry you and then things got out of hand. You were on vacation, so I didn’t think there was anything you could do anyway.” She didn’t even let me finish before she dragged me into her embrace and crushed me against her.

  “Never do that again. Ever. You may be all big and grown. You may be mating a powerful Alpha, but you are still my daughter and I deserve to be involved.”

  I wrapped my arms around her and nodded against her shoulder. “I’m sorry, Mom.” I felt her body shake, shuddering with emotion before she stiffened and released me.

  “All is forgiven. Besides, let’s not dwell on the past. Today’s your day and we’re here to celebrate it. My little girl is getting married.” Even though I could see she had regained her composure, a stray tear fell and was promptly wiped away.

  I studied my father’s features, wondering whether I’d receive a w
ell-deserved lecture from him too. He wore a stern, gruff look and I prepared myself. Whenever I had disappointed him in the past, I’d always felt as though I’d been stripped down to my core; because he never held back. Dean Matthews was always blunt and honest; his belief being that it didn’t serve any of his family to have the truth sugar-coated. His sermons were stuff of legend, but other than the abrupt head shake, he said nothing. Instead, he also pulled me into his arms, offering a brief squeeze as he kissed my cheek and then let go.

  We stood for a moment, staring at each other, and I caught a glimpse of the worry he’d experienced over me. The last few weeks had scared him. He was just too old school and set in his ways to voice it.

  “Sorry.” Just one word and he nodded. It was enough and he gestured for me to turn around.

  “Looks like Mason has everything under control; so he suggested we spend the time with you and assist you in getting ready.” My father glanced around my room. “I’m not sure how much help I can be though. This is more your mother’s kind of thing.”

  “Why don’t you take a seat by the window, dear, so we can see what’s needed,” my mother gently added, and after a short grunt and perusal of my shelves, he picked a book and sat down. Knowing him, he’d completely tune us all out within minutes.

  “So, let me get a proper look at you now.” My mother sighed, and walked around me so she could view my body. “You don’t appear to be any worse for wear. Maybe a little thin and tired, but healthy nonetheless.”

  I grinned at April as she watched on from the bed when I realized I’d forgotten my manners. “Mom, Dad. This is April. She’s one of the younger pack members here. She’s also a friend.”

  “We know. We met her earlier. Thank you for keeping our secret.”

  I glared at my young friend and she shrugged her shoulders. Mouthing Mason, I understood why she hadn’t said anything.