Chapter 10: The Wedding Day

Asher's POV

What a beautiful day for a fake wedding. The sun is shining high in the sky, not a single cloud in sight. Everyone is in a cheerful mood, except for my uncles. They haven't spoken to me much since returning from our stay with the Red Moon pack. They have been avoiding me and it's obvious.

I know they're up to something, but I'm choosing to ignore it. Being suspicious of everything they do isn't good for my mental health. Having Harper here to get inside information will be good for me to know what's happening behind my back.

The wedding preparation has been a lot to take on; I had no idea so much effort goes into planning and organizing a wedding. I'll be prepared for the future when I have a real wedding.

Harper was awake before me this morning, which is odd because she likes to sleep in. Since sharing a bed with her for the past week, I've learnt some of her sleeping habits; her snores are soft and sometimes she talks in her sleep. She hasn't been going for morning runs since she moved in. I know she used to do it at her home, but maybe she isn't comfortable enough to do it here.

Amaris told me yesterday she was going to let Harper get ready for the ceremony in her bedroom so I could use mine. Those two have gotten close in the past week. They hangout all the time doing each other's make up and watching movies together. I'm glad Harper's made a friend in the pack; I was worried she would become lonely and sad, but Amaris is the perfect girl to befriend.

The black tuxedo jacket fits snug around my arms. I'm worried if I move too much, I'll bust out of it. Julius brought the tuxedo to me last night, letting me know it was what my Father wore to his wedding with Mother. I smile at the thought of them together at the altar, holding hands and declaring their undying love for each other. It warms my heart.

However, when I gaze at my reflection in the mirror, I feel like a fraud. I should be wearing this to meet my Mate at the altar and express my undying love to her. I shouldn't be standing in front of a woman who I don't love and won't be spending my future with.

I'm in a weird head space that I don't know how to get out of.

I hear a knock at the door, "Come in!" I call out.

The sound of heels tapping against the floor force me to look over my shoulder. Harper is standing behind me in her wedding dress, with her hair done in long loose waves.

"What are you doing here?" I ask, confused.

She shrugs, walking towards the bookshelf. She grabs a small bottle of perfume, spraying it on her neck and wrists.

"My Mother gave it to me before I left," she smiles, "She told me she used it on her wedding day."

So, we're both borrowing something from our parents. The thought reminds me of something.

"Hold on," I stick my finger in the air, gesturing for her to not leave.

I rush over to my bed side drawer, and ruffle through the mess of papers and miscellaneous objects. I find what I'm looking and walk back to Harper.

I hold out the small box, "This is for you."

Harper takes the box and opens it to reveal a gold band with diamonds on it.

She looks at me, confused, "What's this?"

"It's your wedding ring," I smile, "It was my Mother's. I got it when she passed away, and now it's yours."

She stares at it, twisting it between her fingers. The diamonds sparkle under the light.

"I'd be honored to wear it, Asher. Thank you." She smiles at my gesture.

"I should clarify, though, that I'm only giving it to you because it would be expected of me to."

Her smile disappears, "What do you mean?"

"Well," I begin, "As Alpha I'm expected to pass on family heirlooms to my wife. I can't go to the ceremony today with a random ring, since everyone knew the ring my Mother always wore."

Harper nods her head, "That makes sense. Thanks."

She hands me the ring back and leaves the room without a word. I try to shake off her strange reaction, but something feels weird.

I continue getting ready for the ceremony. My hair still isn't cooperating with me, but what's new? It's not long before Julius knocks on the door and informs me the ceremony is about to begin.

The ceremony is being held outside under the big oak tree in the backyard, surrounded by seating and beautiful tiger lilies. The arch at the end of the walkway is decorated with both orange and white lilies, and the whole affect is stunning.

I walk past the members of the pack who are seated on either side of me. Some of them stand to give me an encouraging hug and offer their congratulations. It's nice to see everyone so excited for me, and willing to accept Harper into the pack.

I take my spot next to the officiator, and my uncles. We stand and wait for Harper. The members grow quiet when soft music begins to play. At that moment, a slight breeze picks up, blowing loose lilies across the walkway.

In the distance Harper makes her way from the house with Amaris. I begin to feel my palms grow clammy when she gets nearer. Everything about her is beautiful, the hair, the dress and her glowing smile. I'm enraptured by her beauty in this moment; I'm being drawn in with no way of escaping, and I'm content with that.

Amaris guides her to stand next to me.

"Hey," I smile.

Harper smiles back, "Hey."

We turn to face each other, and she places her hands in mine. We listen to the officiator talk about love and life. I hope Harper doesn't notice the sweat on my palms or feel how nervous I am through my fingertips.

Though I keep reminding myself not to be nervous, there are moments when this feels real.

I look towards my uncles and they both have sour looks on their faces. The least they could do is try and appear happy for me.

"Harper," The officiator brings me back to Earth, "Will you take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold till death?"

She smiles and nods, "I do."

I slip my Mother's ring on her finger. Perfect fit. He asks me the same question.

"I do," I respond with a smile.

"By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife," he claps his hands together, "You may now kiss the bride."

I look at Harper, a nervous smile graces her lips. I mouth "Are you ready?" to her.

She shakes her head, mouthing back, "Are you?"

I laugh, shaking my head.

We both lean in to seal the deal. Our lips crash together, and for some reason fireworks seem to be going off. For a second I think it's happening around me, but it's just my heart betraying me.