Chapter 0103

This unexpected sweetness isn't something I'd ever associate with the old Adrian. The cold, distant Alpha I once believed him to be. But after witnessing his leadership, his unwavering support in countless situations, I'm no longer surprised.

We pivot, cheering for the other warriors now. Our collective gasps and groans follow each fall, each flying object that finds its mark. Even weakened, I still placed third—right behind Adrian and Sebastian.

"You call yourselves warriors?" My father's drill sergeant bark cuts through the air. "My daughter, who was nearly dead days ago, just outperformed most of you! Pathetic!"

During sparring drills, I assist my father in training. While he focuses on the weakest links, I approach the group facing Adrian. "Listen up," I command, halting their movements. "Who can tell me the Alpha's signature move?"

Predictably, Sebastian answers. "He uses his height and speed to take you down. For shorter opponents, an uppercut. For taller ones like me, a leg sweep. Once you're on the ground, his strength pins you."

"Correct. So how do you counter it?" Silence. Even Adrian watches me, curiosity flickering in his gaze.

"Anticipate it."

Sebastian scoffs. "That's your genius advice? I already try that."

"You don't," I counter. "I've watched you. You know our moves, yet we still best you every time."

"Because he's Alpha and you're Guardian," he mutters.

"Wrong." Adrian steps forward. "You expect to lose. You get lost in the fight and forget to anticipate."

"Exactly." I pick up the thread, shoulder brushing Adrian's as we face the warriors like co-instructors. United. The solidarity thrums through me. "When did we last use our signature moves in the first five minutes against you?"

"Now try it." I step back as Adrian advances. At my whistle, Sebastian engages—but predictably loses focus. The others watch, waiting for the sweep.

"Jump!" I shout.

Sebastian reacts too late. Adrian still takes him down. "Better," I say as Adrian helps him up. "See the difference?"

"Yeah," Sebastian admits, dusting himself off.

"When do we get to watch you two spar?" he asks. The others echo the question eagerly.

"Monday," I say, just as Adrian declares, "Not for another week."

We lock eyes. "No," he growls. "You're not at full strength yet."

"Julian!" I call out, ignoring him. "Get your betting pool ready."

I step toe-to-toe with Adrian. He shakes his head, but I know how to play this game. By Monday, I'll be close enough to full strength. And in this? Even losing means winning.

"Here's the deal, Alpha. Spar me Monday. If you win, last night's question gets a yes."

His eyes darken. "Dirty play, little Guardian."

"Just using every weapon I have."

He extends his hand. "Deal."

Our handshake seals it. Behind us, Julian starts taking bets.

Training ends. Warriors disperse. Adrian's gaze lingers. "I'll pick you up in forty-five minutes, Evelyn."

"See you soon, Adrian." I turn toward the house, then pause. He hasn't moved—still watching me. "Oh, remind me to ask you something on the way to school."

His smirk sends heat up my spine. "Can't wait."

I walk inside, feeling his stare like a physical touch the entire way.