Page 96 of Broken Forced Mate

“What’s next for us?” I ask as we settle in for the evening.

“Continue building the security networks. Finish my degree. Figure out our long-term role around here, I suppose. Things are changing.”

“They are,” I admit. “But do you know what will never change, Mrs. Lemay?”

She grins ear to ear and presses a kiss to my lips. “What’s that, husband?”

“I will always love you. From now until the end of time.”

“Such a romantic,” she teases with a swat. “But I’ll always love you, too. Forever and ever.”

The future stretches ahead with new challenges and opportunities, but we’ll face them as true partners bonded by choice, growth, and love that emerged from the most unlikely beginnings.

Back in town, the reconstructed valley shows few remaining signs of the battle that nearly destroyed everything. New buildings replace those damaged by magical weapons. Enhanced defensive positions protect against future attacks. But most importantly, the community has evolved from an isolated pack territory into a hub for regional cooperation.

Raegan settles against my side as we review the day’s agreements and plan tomorrow’s follow-up activities. The mark on her neck catches my attention, still visible after six months as a permanent reminder of the bond we chose when we were finally ready to embrace love without reservation.

The greatest threat to our community ultimately strengthened the bonds that keep us all safe. Sometimes the most unexpected beginnings lead to the most meaningful endings. Sometimes forced choices become the foundation for everything we never knew we wanted.

*****

THE END