33. A Feast for the New Luna

Ryder

I leave Ivy with Sarah then walk toward my mother's house.

My thoughts are consumed with Ivy. I can't believe she turned out to be my mate. I won't have to search for her anymore. I can't wait to show her off at tonight's ceremony, but at the same time, I want to keep her all to myself.

As I approach the house, I see my mother standing outside, talking with a few members of the pack. She turns and sees me, a smile spreading across her face. "Ryder! How good to see you, my son!" she exclaims, walking over to me and giving me a hug.

"It's good to see you too, Mom," I reply, returning her embrace. "I wanted to come see you before the ceremony tonight."

"Of course, my dear," she says, pulling away and looking at me with a curious expression. "I've been dying to meet your little mate. Is Sarah helping her get dressed?"

"Yes," I say, feeling a pang of longing for Ivy.

"Good." My mother pats my arm. "Now, let's go inside and talk more about tonight's events."

We settle down on the couc