Page 110 of Unmasked

Mia steps forward, her eyes shining. She’s turned out to be a good friend, directing me to the appropriate counseling resources at the university. She’ll be employed part-time in the counseling center beginning in January when she matriculates at Stone Ridge University. “You’re a source of strength and inspiration.”

Keira grins at me, throwing her arm around Mia. “I second Mia’s words. You’re amazing, Mallory.”

Delaney swipes at a tear. “I’m so glad Zayne and I returned to Stone Ridge. You’re my family.”

“Damn it, Delaney. I’ve been trying not to cry.” Devyn grabs a tissue before passing the box to Delaney. “I love you, Mallory. Welcome to the family.”

We come together for a group hug. I’m ecstatic to have such a fantastic group of women in my life. It’s only fitting that they are here for my special day.

The only thing that will make me happier is when I walk down that aisle and say “I do” to the unhinged man who will burn the world down to keep me safe.

Epilogue: Stryker

I stand beneath the archway, waiting for my bride to walk down the aisle. I can’t believe I convinced Mallory to marry me right before Christmas.

It’s December 23, and Zayne’s house has been transformed into a wedding paradise. Poinsettias and Christmas trees deck the halls, making the room festive. The trees are adorned with red, white, and silver ornaments and lights, the colors we chose for our wedding.

Jaxson stands beside me, ready to officiate the ceremony. Ryker is my best man, and Zayne, Luca, and Corey are all groomsmen.

The music plays, and Mia enters the room, walking down the aisle. I can’t help but notice how Jaxson stiffens, a quick exhale leaving his lips when he sees her. He denies that he feels something for her, but I know better.

Keira is next, her eyes on Luca as she takes her place beside Mia. Megan follows her, winking at me before taking her place beside Keira.

Devyn is next, smiling as she winks at Ryker.

Anticipation builds as Mandy, Mallory’s maid of honor,walks down the aisle. I notice how she looks at Corey, her cheeks flushed. She caught Jeremy cheating on her, and Corey was happy to be a shoulder for her to cry on.

When Jeremy tried to apologize, Corey beat the shit out of him, sending him packing. He hasn’t tried to approach Mandy since.

Maybe Mandy and Corey will be the next couple.My gaze moves to Mia, who blushes as she looks at Jaxson, then down at her shoes.Or possibly Jaxson and Mia if the two of them pull their heads from their asses.

The music changes, and everyone stands. My heart pounds beneath my dress shirt and tuxedo jacket.

Fuck, she’s gorgeous.

Her arm is threaded through Edward’s. He smiles at her as though she’s his daughter, even though her father is in attendance, sitting in the audience. Mallory told him that while she was glad he stood up to her mother, too many things had happened that she hadn’t forgiven him for. She didn’t feel right allowing him to escort her down the aisle.

I step forward when they reach the altar.

Edward bends down, kissing Mallory’s cheek. He pats her hand before he puts it in mine. “Take good care of her, Mr. Stryker.”

“You know I will.” I grin at him.

Tears are in her eyes as she gives me a shaky smile. “I’m trying not to cry.”

“It’s okay if you do. I’ll dry your tears like I always do.”

As I lead her to where Jaxson stands, she whispers, “We’re going to have a beautiful life, aren’t we?”

“You bet your ass we will, my little prey.”

She beams at me. “I love you with all of me, my predator.”

“You’re tattooed on my heart. Ingrained in the fabric of my soul and entwined in my DNA. If that’s not love, I don’t know what is.”