Knot Happening Again (Claimverse Book 2)

I stand before the full-length mirror, barely recognizing the woman staring back at me.

The ivory dress hugs my curves perfectly, its delicate lace overlay shimmering in the soft light. My raven hair cascades down my back in loose waves, adorned with tiny white flowers.

I look… ethereal.

Like a fairy tale princess come to life.

Amber, Mace’s sister, stands behind me, adjusting my veil with gentle hands. Her warm smile reflects in the mirror, and I’m struck by how quickly she’s become a friend.

A real friend, not like…

I push the thought of Natalie away.

Today isn’t about the past.

It’s about the future.

My future, with my pack.

‘You look absolutely stunning, Ophelia,’ Amber says, her voice filled with genuine warmth. ‘Are you nervous?’

I take a deep breath, considering the question. Am I nervous? By all rights, I should be. I’m about to walk down the aisle, to formally declare my commitment to not one, but five men. After they all put their marks on my neck.

It’s unconventional, to say the least.

And yet…

‘Honestly? I’m not,’ I admit, a small smile playing on my lips. ‘I know it might sound strange, but I’ve never felt more certain about anything in my life.’

Amber’s eyes crinkle with understanding. ‘It’s not strange at all. You’ve already been marked by all of them, right? This is just making it official for the world to see.’

I nod, my hand instinctively going to my neck where their marks rest. Each one a testament to the love and acceptance I’ve found with this pack. ‘Exactly. I’m just… I’m excited that they wanted to do this. To declare our bond to everyone.’

‘Of course they do. How could they not want to share you with the world? They’re clearly head over heels,’ Amber says, giving my shoulders a gentle squeeze. ‘You know, I’ve never seen the pack so united before. You’re clearly good for them.’

A warmth spreads through my chest at her words, but it’s tinged with a hint of guilt.

‘I almost landed Leon in jail,’ I murmur, the memory of that night at the arena flashing through my mind.

Amber laughs, the sound light and carefree. ‘Oh please, that hypocritical reporter had it coming. And besides, Maddox and the legal team smoothed it all over just in time for today. After this ceremony, no one will be able to question that you belong with the pack.’

I turn to face her, overwhelmed by the acceptance in her eyes. This is what family should be like. Supportive, loving, unconditional.

‘Thank you, Amber. For everything.’

She pulls me into a gentle hug, careful not to wrinkle my dress. ‘That’s what family’s for, love. Now, are you ready to go make my brother the happiest alpha on the planet?’

I take one last look in the mirror, smoothing down my dress.

‘I’m ready.’

The walk to the ceremony space feels like a dream. The soft strains of music grow louder as we approach, and my heart races with anticipation. This is it. The moment I never thought I’d have.

As I round the corner, the sight before me takes my breath away. The garden of the lavish hotel has been transformed into a fairyland, with twinkling lights strung between the trees and delicate white flowers everywhere. But it’s not the decorations that capture my attention.

It’s them.

My alphas.

My pack.

Standing at the end of the aisle, looking more handsome than I’ve ever seen them.

Mace, his burly frame softened by the emotion in his eyes. Troy, for once without his trademark smirk, instead wearing an expression of pure awe. Maddox, practically vibrating with excitement. Rhys, his green eyes shining with unshed tears.

And then there’s Leon.

The man who broke my heart and then put it back together with so much devotion and love. He looks at me like I’m the sun, the moon, and all the stars combined.

As I walk down the aisle, I feel the weight of everyone’s eyes on me. But for once, it doesn’t make me want to shrink away. Instead, I stand taller, more confident. Because I know I belong here, with these men who love me beyond reason.

The ceremony passes in a blur of emotions. We exchange vows, promises of love and devotion that bring tears to my eyes. When it comes time for the marking, each of my alphas steps forward in turn, renewing their claim on me with one of five delicate rings that lock together, a symbol of the marks that already adorn my skin.

As Leon pulls away, the last to place his ring as it fits perfectly on top of the others, the officiant’s voice rings out clear and strong: ‘I now pronounce you a mated pack. May your bond be ever strong, ever true.’

The garden erupts in cheers and applause, but I barely hear it. I’m lost in the eyes of my mates, my pack, my family. In this moment, I feel more loved and accepted than I ever have in my life.

The reception is a whirlwind of congratulations, hugs, and well-wishes. I’m introduced to more extended family members than I can keep track of, but each one welcomes me with open arms. It’s overwhelming in the best possible way.

‘How are you holding up, princess?’ Troy murmurs in my ear as we share a dance.

I lean into him, breathing in his familiar scent of bourbon and leather. ‘I’m perfect,’ I say, and I mean it. ‘I never thought I could be this happy.’

His arms tighten around me. ‘You deserve all the happiness in the world, Effy. And we’re going to spend the rest of our lives making sure you have it.’

As the song ends, I’m passed to Rhys for the next dance. His touch is gentle, reverent. ‘You look absolutely breathtaking,’ he says, his voice thick with emotion. ‘I still can’t believe you’re ours.’

I reach up, cupping his cheek. ‘Believe it. I’m not going anywhere.’

The night continues, a perfect blend of joy and intimacy. I dance with each of my mates, share quiet moments with our new extended family, and bask in the love that surrounds me.

As the reception winds down, Maddox approaches with a small group of people. My hackles rise instinctively as I recognize the cameras they carry, but Maddox’s calm presence soothes me.

‘These are the photographers I vetted,’ he explains quietly. ‘They’ve been given very strict guidelines about what they can and can’t photograph. Is it okay if we do a few posed shots?’

I hesitate for a moment, memories of paparazzi and tabloid headlines flashing through my mind. But then I look around at my pack, at the family we’ve built, and I make a decision.

‘Yes,’ I say, squaring my shoulders. ‘Let’s show the world what real love looks like.’

We pose for a series of photos—the whole pack together, individual shots with each of my mates, even a few with our extended family. With each click of the camera, I feel a little more of my old fear melting away. This is my story now, and I’m the one in control of it.

And Amber is right. By this time tomorrow, the whole world will know we’re a pack.

As the last of the guests begin to leave, I find myself surrounded by my pack once more. They form a protective circle around me, their scents mingling in a way that makes me feel safe and cherished.

‘How are you feeling, sweetheart?’ Mace rumbles, his large hand warm on the small of my back.

I look up at him, then at each of my mates in turn. Leon, who taught me the pain of heartbreak but also the joy of learning to trust again. Troy, whose snarky exterior hides a heart of gold. Rhys, steady and dependable, always there to catch me when I fall. Maddox, whose quick wit and unwavering loyalty have become my anchor. And Mace, a gentle giant whose love knows no bounds.

‘I feel…’ I pause, searching for the right words. ‘I feel like I’m finally home.’

Leon pulls me close, pressing a kiss to my forehead. ‘You are home, Ophelia. You always will be.’

As we stand there, bathed in the soft glow of the fairy lights, I’m struck by how far we’ve come. From broken and alone to whole and surrounded by love. It hasn’t been an easy journey, but standing here now, I know it was worth every moment.

This is my pack.

My family.

My happily ever after.