In the past, with Silas’s protection, no one dared to approach me.

But now that he was gone, it was my responsibility to protect myself.

At Harper’s words, my heart warmed, and tears welled up in my eyes.

I was afraid Harper would be even more worried if she saw my tears, so I quickly replied with an “okay” and pushed her to continue the ceremony.

After exchanging rings and popping champagne at the reception, the mating ceremony was coming to an end. The rest of the mating ritual would ...