Goodbye My Twin Pups and My Mate by Ava

Erica's POV

As the full moon lit up the Driscoll house with its bright light, laughter and cheers surrounded me like a cosy hug.

"Congrats to you, Erica!" a familiar voice called out while sparking a wave of applause and cheers from the guests, and I felt a joyful rush of happiness inside me.

"I'm happy for you!" another friend said while giving me a big hug. The love around me was massive today, and I was totally enjoying it.

I had finally mated with Alpha Jaxon Buell of the Moonshine Pack. Just a little while ago, we said our vows under the shining moon, which was a special ceremony that connected our hearts forever.

An older member of the pack with his hair, a mix of silver and grey, walked over to me while clapping his hands. "Finally, Erica! We were beginning to think you wouldn't get Jaxon's attention!"

I smiled with my cheeks turning red. "Thanks! I can't believe this is happening."

"And here's to love!" Jaxon lifted his glass with his bright eyes sparkling with joy as they locked onto mine. "To our future together, and may each day be as lively as this party!"

"To Erica and Jaxon!" The crowd cheered with their drinks held up high, with laughter filling the air around us.

My heart raced as I looked into Jaxon's eyes. I felt special like never before. All the doubt I had felt for years disappeared, replaced by a strong sense of my value.

I had always been the quieter and weaker twin in the shadow of my more confident sister, Erin, but this moment felt like my chance to stand out.

As the party went on, I saw Erin on the other side of the room. Her long hair shone brightly, and her strong presence caught everyone's eye. I made my way through the crowd while pulling toward her like a moth to a light.

"Congrats, sis!" She said with her voice more strained than I thought it would be, with a hint of something I couldn't understand showing in her eyes.

"Thank you!" I said while full of joy. "I can't believe this day is finally here."

"Are you happy, aren't you?" Erin asked with her voice careful but showing a hint of something that confused me.

"Definitely! I've never felt better... like this."

"Sure," she said quickly with a sly smile on her face. "Just watch out. Things aren't always what they look like-"

Before I could ask her what she meant, she turned and disappeared into the crowd, leaving me looking after her with a frown. Why did Erin's sudden change in mood upset me? Shouldn't she be happy for me?

I let it go and turned back to where Jaxon was amusing our guests with his fun jokes. Laughter filled the air, but I started to feel a little uneasy. Leaning on the bar, I twirled the champagne in my glass while watching Jaxon as he excitedly told a story from his past.

"I swear I once dared a bear to a fight! But because I was drunk!" he said while spreading his arms wide with his eyes shining with fun. I couldn't help but smile weakly at his lively spirit.

With all the celebration around me, I began to feel drowsy. I felt lightheaded, but not from the drinks-something deeper was bothering me, maybe a hint of unease from Erin's comments. The lively mood felt at odds with the growing sense of worry that was just under the surface.