The Crescent Howl packhouse was alive with energy as the preparations for Rosalie’s celebration began in earnest. The courtyard buzzed with excitement, pack members moving back and forth carrying decorations, setting up tables, and arranging flowers. The smell of roasted meats and fresh bread wafted from the kitchens, and laughter echoed through the halls as children darted around, playing amidst the chaos.
Bella stood by the large dining hall entrance, watching as pack members hung garlands of ivy and white roses along the wooden beams. She couldn’t help but smile, though a flicker of nervousness remained in her chest. Rosalie had been through so much to reach this point, and the thought of introducing her to the entire pack filled Bella with equal parts pride and anxiety.
“She’s going to love it,” Kael said, stepping up behind Bella. His hand rested lightly on her shoulder, grounding her.
Bella glanced up at him, her lips curving into a soft smile. “I hope so. I just want this to be perfect for her. After everything she’s endured, she deserves something beautiful.”
Kael squeezed her shoulder gently. “She deserves the world, and she’ll have it. She’s strong because she’s ours. And we’ll make sure she’s never alone.”
Bella leaned into him for a moment, drawing strength from his calm presence. “Do you think it’s too soon to invite allies? With everything that’s happened, I don’t want to put the pack—or Rosalie—at risk.”
Kael shook his head. “We’ve taken every precaution. Patrols are doubled, and no one is getting in or out without clearance. This isn’t just about celebrating Rosalie—it’s about showing our strength, reminding everyone that Crescent Howl stands united.”
Bella nodded, reassured by his confidence. She took a deep breath, letting the festive atmosphere soothe her worries. “You’re right. It’s time to show the pack—and the world—that we’re stronger than ever.”
In the nursery, Misery carefully adjusted Rosalie’s tiny dress, a pale lavender garment adorned with delicate embroidery. Rosalie giggled, her bright eyes following Misery’s movements.
“You’re going to steal the show, little one,” Misery said with a rare smile.
Bella entered the room, her heart melting at the sight of her daughter. “Isn’t she beautiful?”
Misery glanced up, her expression softening. “She’s more than beautiful. She’s a miracle.”
Bella crossed the room and scooped Rosalie into her arms, holding her close. “Thank you, Misery. For everything. I don’t know how we would’ve gotten through this without you.”
Misery waved off the gratitude, though a flicker of emotion crossed her face. “You’re her mother, Bella. She gets her strength from you. I just did my part.”
Bella kissed the top of Rosalie’s head, her heart swelling with love. “I’ll never take this for granted. Not for a second.”
As evening fell, the packhouse was transformed into a scene of celebration. Fairy lights twinkled in the trees surrounding the courtyard, casting a warm glow over the gathering. Long tables were set with fine linens and adorned with wildflowers, while a makeshift stage had been erected for speeches and music.
Pack members began to arrive, dressed in their best, their excitement thick. The sound of laughter and conversation filled the air as old friends reunited and children played under the watchful eyes of their parents.
Kael stood near the entrance, greeting guests alongside Darius and a few other senior members. He kept a careful eye on the crowd, his Alpha instincts on high alert despite the festive atmosphere.
“Everyone seems in good spirits,” Darius commented, his sharp gaze scanning the perimeter.
“They should be,” Kael replied. “This is a night to remember how far we’ve come—and to remind everyone that we’re stronger than ever.”
Darius nodded but kept his voice low. “Still, I’ll feel better when the night is over and everyone’s accounted for.”
Kael didn’t respond, but he couldn’t deny the flicker of unease in his gut.
Inside, Bella stood near the stage, cradling Rosalie as pack members gathered around to greet their Alpha heir. Rosalie smiled and cooed, charming everyone who approached. Bella felt a swell of pride as she watched the pack embrace her daughter with open arms.
“She’s going to be loved by so many,” Lira said, stepping up beside Bella.
Bella smiled. “She already is.”
Lira’s gaze lingered on Rosalie, her expression thoughtful. “She’s special, Bella. More than you know. And that will bring challenges—but also incredible strength. Never forget that.”
Bella nodded, her grip tightening on Rosalie. “I’ll protect her with everything I have. Always.”
Just as the celebration was hitting its stride, Misery stood at the edge of the courtyard, her eyes narrowed as she scanned the tree line. A faint unease prickled at the edges of her senses, a feeling she couldn’t quite place.
“Something’s wrong,” she muttered under her breath.
Lira, who had joined her moments before, frowned. “What is it?”
Misery shook her head, her brow furrowed. “I’m not sure. There’s a strange presence near the border. It’s faint, but it’s there.”
Lira straightened, her hand instinctively moving to the dagger at her waist. “Should we alert Kael?”
Misery hesitated before nodding. “Yes. He needs to know. Tell him to stay vigilant during the party. If someone’s trying to test our defenses, tonight would be the perfect time.”