Celeste snorted and gave me a playful swat. “Stop that. I’m being serious.”
“So am I. You are the most beautiful woman I have ever laid eyes on, and I am confident my opinion on the matter won’t change with time, with mateship, or with anything else. And if it does, I will only feel more certain in my assessment.” My smile grew a little. “But you are also correct in your assumption that the Lunar Bride does more than be a mate.” I sighed, my smile fading a moment later. “In the past, you would’ve been able to learn from the current lord’s mate, even if she was not officially a Lunar Bride herself. I am sorry that option isn’t available to you.”
Celeste’s expression softened. “That isn’t your fault, Fenris. You don’t have to apologize for that.”
“I am sorry, all the same.” I shook my hea
