Chapter 86. The Mating Ceremony

Alison’s POV

The sunlight filtered through the thick canopy of trees, dappling the forest floor with golden patterns that seemed to shift and shimmer with every breeze. For once, the ever-present tension in the Crimson Pack felt like it had lifted, replaced by an air of celebration. But as I stood in my room, staring at my reflection in the mirror, my heart was a whirlwind of emotions, joy, nerves, and the faintest hint of disbelief.

I was about to mate with Xander, the man who had undergone so much with me. And now, he was mine, and I was his. Forever.

A soft knock on the door pulled me from my thoughts. Before I could answer, the door creaked open, and Simone stepped inside, her expression warm but still tinged with the seriousness her new role demanded.

“You look breathtaking,” she said, her voice soft as she closed the door behind her. She wore her ceremonial robes, a deep Crimson that complemented her dark hair and the faint golden glow that now s