Vivian Arend - Moon Shine

“He’s eager to defend your honour.”

Amy made a rude noise. “He wanted to play, is all. Well, plus he hopes to impress me enough I’ll teach him the backdoor secrets on Halo so he can set a new high score.”

A burst of laughter escaped before he could stop it. “I’m glad you two are getting along.”

She draped her hands over his shoulders and leaned back slightly, swaying gently from side to side to some unheard music. “We got a call from Shelley and Chase. They wanted to let you know that come the spring, they plan to bring a couple dozen trees out from the bush. A contribution to the hotel. Shelley will send the details later so the designers can work them into the landscaping. It’s their gift to us. To the biggest pack in the North.”

More people who Evan cared about, and who he was glad to have in his life. As much as he needed to give to the pack, the fact he was personally loved in return brought him to his knees.

And yet… “I’d give it all up, you know.”

A crease appeared between her eyes even as she continued to stroke his shoulders. “Where did that come from?”

Evan shrugged. “Just had to be said. I love that we’ve established a strong, new pack, and there are a shit-ton of good people around Whitehorse, no matter if their party style is quiet or loud.”

“Or as it seems right now, quiet or ear-shattering.”

The cheers had grown shriller, and they grinned at each other. Contentment flooded his soul, but he didn’t want to miss making his point.

“But at the root of it all?” He cupped her chin, bending his knees until their eyes were on the same level. “At the center, and right here where it counts the most?” He pressed her fingers over his chest. “Right here is where you are. I don’t care if we’ve got the biggest pack in the North, or the smallest, as long as I’m with you.”

Her eyes sparkled. “Ditto.”

Evan pulled her against him, and they gazed over their domain. Hand in hand and heart to heart.

“I love you, Evan.”

Her words whispered through his head. The ultimate intimacy.

He looked into her eyes again and saw his world reflected there. “I love you, Amy. And I always will.”

United. Whitehorse forever.