Epilogue
What about now?
They returned to the pack some time later. The trio was welcomed back with open arms, even Rusty. Everyone saw a change in the strange creature. Rusty had a more authoritative air. He held his head high and posture straight. It didn't take long for the wolves to catch on. This male was an Alpha.
He appeared confident and indeed he was. In fact, Rusty hadn't felt this great since he was on the police force. He was once again where he belonged: in charge. But at least this time, he didn't have to lead alone. The wolf dingo stood on the hill where he originally contemplated setting foot in Aleu's territory, lost in thought.
I told you time would be kind to you. A voice said behind him.
Rusty turned and saw Snowdrift there. The spirit of the outlaw wolf smiled knowingly. He bowed his head in respect.
"And so it has. But I wouldn't have made it without your help".
All I did was fix your back and the part of your heart you hated so much. There is much love in you, Rusty. And now you must give that love to Aleu, and all who may come after you.
"I know. And I will. But I won't deny that I miss Madeline. But I need to know…Graham Aubrey, is he alright?"
He has suffered from depression but all is well with him now. He is at peace and so should you be.
"I am".
There is still a slight storm in your heart, young one.
"I'm partially in mourning, partially in bliss".
I see. But which is more prominent?
"My bliss. Aleu is my whole heart, and Aniu…I don't think I'd ever be able to live without either one. I love them too much. So in a way, Maddie's death was a blessing in disguise. She always told me in nightmares to find my home. I didn't understand it then. But now I do. Home is wherever those two are".
"Rusty?" another voice, another one he loved, sounded.
He looked over and saw Aleu emerge from the woods, a gentle smile on her face. Rusty turned briefly to see the white wolf had gone. Poor Aleu probably thought he was talking to himself. Oh well…at least he got to see the old outlaw once before he became Aleu's official mate. He rushed down to her and almost knocked her over in his excitement and happiness. Rusty gave her a soft nuzzle against her neck and growled softly. For him there was no other girl. Only she could ever make him feel complete. Whole.
A/N: Well that's the end folks. Sorry it's not much but it's whatever works right? Okay so yes I am planning a sequel to this, but I don't think it'll be posted any time soon. I'm working on my original novel and then I might have a Once Upon A Time fic in the works. So that's what's going on with me. Hope you guys liked, thanks to all who reviewed, followed, and favorited.