A War inside me

Chapter 6

Evelyn’s POV

The funeral service ended, and we had arranged a few hours in between to change and to continue on with today’s events. The King and Queen were escorted by Kaden and Mira to their suites for their stay here, and I left with Ben back to the Alpha quarters.

And made a pact with myself: no more tears, unless they are happy ones. I have a lifetime to mourn my parents, but it’s only once in a lifetime I get to witness my brother and my beautiful sister-in-law be celebrated as the Alpha and Luna they trained to be.

Ben and I walked up the stairs hand in hand. “Give me a quick second. I have a different gown and hairstyle I want to do for my brother’s ceremony,” I told him. He rolled his eyes playfully. “Of course you do. I’ll have my stuff sent here, and we can get ready together,” he chuckled.

“I’d like that, l—I really need you today, Ben,” he dipped down and kissed my cheek.

“I’ll be here,” he assured me.

We walked in, and I quickly made my way towards my room and pulled out my emerald green dress, its strapless mermaid-style dress that was form-fitted and tailored to all my curves, hugging me nicely. I paired it with a diamond necklace and kept my mother’s diamond studs on. I then let my hair down and styled it in gorgeous tight curls that flowed down my waist.

Finally, to finish the look, I did a sharp cut crease on my eyelids, a bold, clean black winged eyeliner. Vivid green eye shadow on the bottom, and of course, a highlighted inner corner.

My makeup turned out beautifully, highlighting my already emerald eyes. I gave myself a one last look, satisfied with the ending look.

I walked out to see Ben in a tailored suit, all black in color. He looked amazing.

“Wow,” he said under his breath.

“Yeah? You think it looks good?” I said shyly.

“You look beautiful,” he said with a big smile. He gave me his arm to hold onto, and we honestly looked so freaking good.

“Shall we get going?” He said, wiggling his eyebrow.

“Yes, the ceremony is going to start in 30 minutes. Let’s go,” I said, hauling him down the stairs. We walked through the empty pack house, our feet echoing with every step.

“So how are you feeling with everything going on?” Ben said, breaking the silence.

“I’m fine, ” I said, forcing a smile.

He narrowed his eyes at me. “I swear I’m fine. No need to worry.”

He sighed. “You know you have me, right? For anything you need.”

“Thank you. I appreciate it. Seriously.”

He gave me half a smile. I can tell he wasn’t fully convinced with my response, but he wasn’t going to press me any harder, not when we had just arrived at the ceremony.

We both took a deep breath as we stepped through the double doors, and I felt my breath catch in my throat. The room glowed—soft golden lights draped from the ceiling like falling stars, white flowers blooming in every corner, and candles lining the aisle in delicate glass lanterns. It was stunning, almost unreal, and for a moment, I forgot how to move. Mira had done this—had taken a simple idea of a ceremony and transformed it into something magical. I could see my brother’s grin across the room, proud and happy, and I felt a swell of emotion rise in my chest. As I walked deeper into the venue, taking in the details—the lace-wrapped chairs, the elegant table settings, the gentle music—I whispered to Ben , “She really outdid herself.”

He chuckled. “Yeah, she did,” he responded with pride.

We made our way up front. Ben greeted Kaden in a handshake. Kaden, seeing my arm wrapped around Ben, gave an approving smile. He’s always hoped Ben would end up being my mate, and even though we’re still not sure who my mate is, there’s a part of me that hopes it’s Ben.

“I want you both to stand beside me. I know it’s usually the Alpha, but since Father isn’t here, I was hoping you two would join me in his place.” We smiled at each other, excited to be the witnesses of this beautiful moment. “Yes, of course !” We said in unison and stood next to him.

*

*

The music swelled through the hall—deep, rhythmic drums paired with soft strings—as the king and queen made their entrance. They walked in perfect step, robes gliding behind them, their crowns shimmering in the warm glow of the chandeliers. All eyes followed them as they approached the beautifully adorned altar, where carved pillars and fresh blooms framed their seats. Taking their places with quiet dignity, they looked ahead to the Kaden standing at the front—hands clasped, breath unsteady, hope shining in his eyes as he waited for his Luna to appear. The room seemed to hold its heartbeat for him, the monarchs included, as the moment of union drew near.

When the doors reopened, Mira appeared glowing in her gown. It felt like the whole room softened. We watched her take each step, slow and graceful, her eyes stung with emotion I know she didn’t expect.

She made her way up the altar and joined hands with a smiling Kaden.

The King spoke: “Today, we gather not just to witness a union, but to celebrate the joining of two hearts that strengthen our kingdom.

Love, loyalty, and courage—these are the pillars of a lasting bond, and I see all three shining in this couple before us. May your days be filled with peace, your challenges met hand-in-hand, and your joys shared with all who stand beside you. On behalf of the crown, I bless this union of Alpha Kaden of Stone Brook and Luna Mira from Blue Moon as the official Alpha and Luna of Stone Brook. May your union bring light to our halls and hope to our people.”

The crowd cheered as they shared a union kiss in front of the pack.

Again, the crowd went wild. Ben looked at me with a big smile, and he didn’t hold back and hugged me by the waist, twirling me like a little princess, making me squeal in excitement. The room filled with joy—bright, buzzing, and alive with laughter.

That’s until loud claps surrounded the ballroom, and strong auras came radiating in waves.

At the end of the ballroom are 2 large men. The men appear identical and well-built, with a muscular frame and broad shoulders. They have dark, thick, slightly curly hair the sides trimmed, along with well-groomed facial hair that frames their perfect jaw lines. Their striking blue eyes lock on mine, sending a cold shiver down my spine.

The King stood up, his frame towering over us. “Boys. Welcome to Stonebrook,” the King’s voice boomed.