Chapter 0132

"Actually, yes." I adjusted Evelyn in my lap, breathing in her lavender scent. "I have something important to discuss with everyone tonight. What should I bring?"

Nathaniel groaned dramatically. "I swear I'm turning into a permanent third wheel here."

Donovan had finally gotten Genevieve to stop ignoring him this week. The way she giggled at his terrible jokes made Nathaniel's complaint valid.

I exchanged a glance with Donovan. We'd planned this conversation for later, but the opportunity presented itself now.

"Nathaniel," I said, feeling Evelyn's fingers threading through my hair, sending pleasant shivers down my spine. "Donovan and I need to talk to you about something."

He straightened immediately. "Did I mess up, Alpha?"

"Quite the opposite," Donovan interjected.

"You know our Gamma lineage only produced one daughter?" I asked.

Nathaniel nodded.

"Did you know she found her mate in another pack last weekend?" Donovan dropped the bombshell.

Nathaniel's jaw slackened. "What? Since when?"

"That's not the important part," I continued, making sure I had his full attention. "When I take over as Alpha, I want you as my Gamma."

Evelyn gasped, her wide eyes darting between us. Nathaniel looked like a fish out of water, mouth opening and closing soundlessly.

"Nat?" Evelyn prompted when the silence stretched too long.

He shook his head as if clearing cobwebs. "You're serious?"

Our synchronized nods made his face break into a grin. "Hell yes! I'd be honored, Alpha. You won't regret this."

I arrived at the Sinclair residence with a fresh bouquet - crimson peonies and white lilies this time, symbolizing passion and purity. Who knew floral arrangements could speak volumes?

While Grant and Alistair manned the grill, I helped Evelyn prepare side dishes in the kitchen. When we gathered around the table, I cleared my throat.

"There's something we need to discuss." All conversation ceased.

"I assume Evelyn shared her findings from the Guardian histories?" I directed at Grant, who nodded grimly. "After our conversation last week about Valeria's missing wolf spirit, I contacted King Oberon."

Grant frowned. "Why does that name ring a bell?"

"He's the Fae monarch who provided Evelyn's book," I explained.

Evander leaned forward. "I recognize the name, but can't place why."

"He's invited all four of us to Eldermere," I continued. "He specifically requested to meet both of you." My gaze shifted between Evelyn and Grant. "And he might have answers about your mother's missing Guardian spirit."

Grant's fork clattered against his plate. "Aren't the Fae and werewolves at odds? Is it safe entering their territory?"

Alistair answered before I could. "Our species were allies centuries ago. While I don't know what fractured that alliance, Oberon has always been honorable. He wouldn't extend an invitation if there was danger."

Evelyn turned pleading eyes on her father. "This could finally give us answers about Mom. Don't you want to know what happened to her spirit?"

The prolonged silence stretched before Grant sighed. "More than anything."

Evelyn's fingers found mine under the table. "When do we leave?"