N17

Lucas, dressed in his alpha uniform, stepped onto the stage and raised his arms for silence. The crowd gradually calmed down, all eyes turning towards their leader. "Today, we celebrate not only the resilience of our pack, but also the invaluable contribution of someone who returned to us and changed our destiny," he began, his voice ringing with a gentle but authoritative farm. "Stella, please join me. »

Stella felt her heart beat faster when she heard her name. She exchanged an encouraging look with her children, who observed her with eyes full of admiration. Gathering her courage, she climbed onto the stage, to the applause of the crowd.

"Stella," Lucas continued, once she was at his side, "you have shown extraordinary courage and determination. You healed the wounded, strengthened our pack and brought new light into our lives. We owe you a lot, and today we want to show you how grateful we are. »

He turned towards the crowd. "Stella not only proved her medical skills, but she also showed what it means to be a true leader. She embodies the values of compassion, courage and loyalty that we cherish. In his honor, we will plant a tree of life, a symbol of renewal and growth for our pack. »

At these words, two members of the pack brought a sapling and began to plant it in the center of the clearing. The applause increased in intensity, and Stella felt tears welling up. It was a simple but deeply meaningful gesture, and she was touched beyond words.

Lucas turned to her and took her hand in his, a public gesture of affection that made her heart beat faster. "Stella, on behalf of the entire pack, thank you. For everything you have done and for everything you are. »

Stella took a deep breath, her eyes shining with tears. "Thank you, Lucas," she said, her voice shaking slightly. "Thank you all. You welcomed me back among you, and that means more than anything to me. Together, we have overcome many challenges, and together, we will continue to move forward. »

The applause rang out again, and Stella felt surrounded by a warmth she hadn't felt in a long time. Lucas squeezed her hand tighter, and she understood that they were really building something new and solid, together.

However, from the shadows, Josh observed the scene with dark eyes. His heart was filled with resentment and jealousy. He had not abandoned his plans for revenge and discord. He was just waiting for the right moment to strike.

The ceremony continued with singing and dancing, and for the first time in years, Stella allowed herself to relax and enjoy the moment. The triplets were running around the newly planted tree, laughing and playing, and Stella felt that, despite all the challenges, they would get through this.

Later that evening, as the festivities were winding down, Josh approached Lucas, a calculating expression on his face. "Lucas, can I speak to you in private? » he asked, hiding his true intention behind a mask of courtesy.

Lucas, despite his reservations, acquiesced. They withdrew to one side, far from curious eyes. "What do you want, Josh? » Lucas asked, crossing his arms.

"I wanted to congratulate you on the ceremony," Josh began, with a smile that couldn't reach his eyes. "It was really emotional. But I can't help but wonder if this is really what's best for the pack. »

Lucas frowned. "What do you mean? »

"Stella is amazing, I don't deny that. But do you really think she can live up to expectations as Luna? After everything she's been through and her prolonged absence, can she truly understand the pack's current needs? »

Lucas felt anger rising within him. "Stella has proven her worth and dedication time and time again. If anyone has any doubts about this, that's their problem, not theirs. »

Josh smiled, a predatory smile. " Maybe. But the members of the pack speak, Lucas. Some people think you let yourself be blinded by your feelings. What if Stella isn't really the right person for this role? »

"That's enough, Josh," Lucas cut in, his voice hard. "I will not tolerate your attempts to sow discord. Stella has earned her place here. And if anyone has a problem with that, they can come to me directly. »

Josh raised his hands in surrender. "Very good, very good. I just wanted to let you know what I'm hearing. After all, we have to think about what's best for the pack. »

Lucas watched him leave, his words echoing in his mind. He knew Josh wouldn't give up that easily. But he was determined to protect Stella and their children, no matter what.

Back among the crowd, Lucas found Stella and took her hand. She could see the tension on his face. "What's wrong? » she asked softly.

"Nothing we can't handle," he replied, smiling. "Josh is still trying to sow doubt, but we have to stay strong and united. »

Stella nodded, squeezing his hand. "We will. Together. »

As night fell and the stars shone in the sky, Stella and Lucas promised each other to never let the shadows of the past or the plots of their enemies tarnish their future. They were ready to face any challenge, because they knew that their love and determination were stronger than anything.

The triplets, tired but happy, came to snuggle up against their parents, adding extra warmth to this moment of peace. "We're family," Stella whispered, hugging them close. "And nothing and no one will be able to separate us. »

Lucas placed a kiss on her forehead. " Forever. »

As the pack dispersed, returning to their homes, Stella, Lucas, and their children stayed for a while longer, enjoying the serenity of the night. They knew trials awaited them, but as long as they were together, they could overcome any obstacle. Their journey was not over, but they were ready to travel it hand in hand, with the strength of their love and the determination of their hearts.

The weeks following the ceremony were marked by steady progress in Lucas' father's health. Every day, he regained his strength thanks to Stella's diligent care. She spent hours by his side, ensuring his treatments were administered correctly and meeting his needs with endless patience and compassion. A grateful Lucas often observed these scenes in silence, admiring Stella's devotion and expertise.

One morning, as Stella adjusted the cushions behind her patient's back, he took her hand gently, his eyes shining with gratitude. "Stella, I have no words to thank you," he said in a weak but sincere voice. "You gave me my life back. Without you, I don't know what would have happened to me. »

Stella smiled at him, her eyes misty with tears. "It's an honor for me to be able to help you. You are part of my family, and I will always do everything I can for you. »

Lucas, who was standing aside, felt his heart swell with pride and love. Her father, who had been so close to death, was healing, and it was thanks to Stella. He came closer, placing a hand on his father's shoulder. "We owe you a lot, Stella. More than words could ever express. »

The old man nodded, squeezing Stella's hand with newfound strength. "Lucas is right. You not only saved my life, but you also brought new light into our family. We will never forget it. »

Stella felt herself blush at the praise, but she was also filled with deep satisfaction. It was for times like this that she chose medicine, to bring hope and healing to those who needed it.

After this emotional exchange, Lucas decided it was time to move forward with his feelings. He had thought long and hard and realized that despite the obstacles, he wanted to be with Stella, openly and fully. He wanted to court the one he had always loved, to show the world that her heart belonged to him.

One evening, he invited Stella to take a walk in the forest, under the stars. The triplets were asleep, and they finally had some quiet time to themselves. They walked in silence for a while, enjoying the tranquility of nature. Then, Lucas stopped and turned to her, taking her hands in his.

"Stella," he began, his eyes shining with emotion, "I know we've been through a lot, and our path hasn't been easy. But through it all, one thing has become clear to me: I love you. I have always loved you, and I want to spend the rest of my life showing you how much you mean to me. »

Stella felt her heart beat faster, her cheeks flushing. "Lucas, I...I love you too. But there are so many obstacles, so much to overcome. »

"We will get through them together," he replied with determination. "I'm ready to face anything, as long as you're by my side. We have been separated by misunderstandings and fears, but not anymore. I want the world to know that you are the one I love, and that I am willing to do anything for you and our children. »

Tears of joy and relief rolled down Stella's cheeks. She moved closer to Lucas, holding his hands tighter. "So, let's start this new chapter together. I'm ready. »

They exchanged a long kiss under the stars, sealing their promise to love and support each other. It was the beginning of a new era for them, an era of transparency, dedication and deep love.

However, all was not peaceful within the pack. Josh, Lucas' former partner, had continued to stir up trouble, seeking to undermine Lucas' authority and discredit Stella. His malicious actions had begun to raise questions among the pack members, and the tension was palpable.

One evening, during a pack meeting, one of the elders spoke. "Josh, it's time to answer for your actions," he said in a deep voice. "We've heard rumors and accusations, and it's time to clear the air. »

Josh, standing in the center of the circle, tried to remain calm. "I don't understand what you're talking about," he replied, feigning innocence. "Everything I did was for the good of the pack. »

A murmur of disbelief ran through the assembly. Lucas stood up, his gaze fixed on Josh. "You tried to sow discord and sabotage our unity. You manipulated and lied to serve your own interests. This is unacceptable. »

The pack members nodded, their accusing gazes on Josh. "We need truth and loyalty, not deception," another member added. "Josh, your actions have caused too much harm. »

Josh felt panic rising within him. "I just wanted to protect the pack! Stella is not trustworthy, she abandoned her position and only returned out of necessity. »

"That's not true," Stella retorted, stepping forward. "I came back because my family needed me, and I proved my loyalty and dedication. Your accusations are unfounded. »

Lucas approached Josh, his gaze hard. "It's time to face the consequences of your actions. We cannot tolerate someone who sows division among us. »

The pack elders chatted briefly, then turned to Josh. "We have decided," one of them announced. "For the sake of the pack, Josh must leave our community. We cannot allow his actions to continue to harm us. »

Josh, overwhelmed, couldn't think of anything to say. He bowed his head and left the assembly, leaving behind a pack determined to regain its unity and strength.

With Josh's departure, a new era of peace and cooperation began for the pack. Lucas and Stella, now free to continue their relationship without the shadows of the past, began to build a future together. They were determ

ined to overcome all obstacles, with the strength of their love and the solidarity of their family.