POV: Riley
Excitement and nervous energy coursed through Riley as she and Alex prepared for the mating ritual with Mason. They stood together in their shared room, surrounded by the calming scent of pine and lavender that Mason had infused into the air. The room felt warmer than usual, as if the air itself crackled with anticipation.
Riley glanced at Alex, who was meticulously adjusting the delicate silver necklace around her neck. The necklace was a gift from Mason, symbolizing their bond and the strength they found in each other. It shimmered softly in the dim light of the room, casting a gentle glow on Alex's face.
"You nervous?" Riley asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Alex looked up, meeting Riley's gaze with a mixture of apprehension and excitement. "A bit," she admitted, h
