CHAPTERTWENTY-FOUR
HENRY
The reception had gone on forever, and yet, not long enough.
Henry had caught up with cousins, uncles, and aunts he hadn’t seen in years. The delight the rest of the clan took in welcoming Olivia to the family had been obvious in every single face in the crowd.
Evelyn’s children had found mates to play with amongst the shifter clan, and close family members had offered to organize playdates so Evelyn could have a break from the relentless work … and joy … that was motherhood. Henry’s great-aunt had also hinted that there would be plenty of room for his royal cubs to join in, as well.
Maureen had laughed and joked with Nicholas before being swept into a conversation by Cousin Merle. The old dame was appreciative of Maureen’s sass and her diverse knowledge, and the two planned to meet up frequently for coffee and movies.
Other members of the family happily agreed to step in and help with Maureen’s medical appointments, so the newlyweds could enjoy their honeymoon without worrying that Evelyn was handling it all by herself.
Henry had intended to see the reception through to its finish, but as it passed midnight, the party showed no sign of slowing down. His father was breaking out the hundred-year-old whiskey and challenging others to a drinking competition. After his first shot, Jennifer moved in to take him to the dance floor.
“You have all night to drink,” she said coyly. “Get over here and dance with me first, you old cat!”
“My pleasure, wife of mine,” Nicholas agreed, winking. “But give me an hour or so drinking after, and then see what these old paws can do!”
Henry watched his parents stride out onto the floor as the live band settled into a slow number. Seeing them looking into each other’s eyes as they began to sway together warmed his heart.
“I never thought I’d see Father so happy,” he said, taking Olivia’s hand and kissing it gently. “My whole life, he’s been tense like he’s in a hurry. Now I know it is because he was afraid I wouldn’t have enough in my life … like he had to set an example.”
“And all you really wanted was his approval,” Olivia said. When Henry looked at her, he noticed how drowsy her eyes were and how her smile seemed to fade. He kissed her gently.
“I should have been paying more attention to you, my love,” he said. “You were ready to leave this party hours ago.”
“I couldn’t have left,” she said, shaking her head. “It’s been the most amazing party I’ve ever seen!”
“You think this is big!” he said, laughing. “Wait until we welcome our first child!”
Olivia’s eyes widened, and Henry worried that he had said the wrong thing until a slow smile spread across his wife’s face.
“I’d like that very much,” she whispered. He pulled her into his arms.
“How about we get started right now? Unless you’re too tired, of course.”
Olivia leaned over, kissing him with a little urgency.
“Never too tired for you, my love, especially on our wedding night.”
Henry felt an intense feeling rushing through him, and it wasn’t just lust. And it was only a little like love. It was something greater than both, a knowledge that Olivia was made for him and that not just their bodies but their souls would be in perfect alignment … forever.
Henry reached over, sweeping Olivia into his arms and standing in one fluid movement. With the grace of his inner cat, he walked across the stone floor, carrying his bride toward the grand staircase.
As they passed through the foyer, Henry chuckled to see several panthers who had partied themselves out lying scattered around on the couches. The massive cats flicked their tails and clenched their paws in their sleep as they dreamed sweet feline dreams.
“Oh, look,” whispered Olivia, pointing. Evelyn’s children were curled up between two huge, elder panthers. Evelyn was asleep in a nearby chair.
“It’s Great-grampa,” Henry said. “And Great-grandma.”
“They look very comfortable,” Olivia said. Henry nodded.
“Ever had a cat sit on your lap and purr? They say the frequency heals human hearts. Imagine what it must be like to be wrapped up between two of them.”
Olivia sighed, leaning into Henry’s chest.
“Everything has just worked out so beautifully,” she said. Henry began to ascend the staircase, carrying Olivia with ease. When they got to the door, Henry made a little fanfare sound.