Chapter 0016

I dial the florist with a grin. "Just confirming the lunchtime delivery."

Donovan grabs his keys. "I'll drive while you handle the details."

This secret admirer move might be cheesy, but it's necessary. Evelyn needs to know these aren't from Alpha Sebastian.

Lunchtime crawls toward me like molasses. The second the bell rings, I'm out of my seat. Front row observation is non-negotiable—her reaction determines whether my entire week's plan gets scrapped.

Donovan fetches our food while I stake out our usual table. Evelyn enters with Nathaniel and Genevieve. My stomach twists. No backup plans exist—if she tosses those flowers, I'm screwed.

The cafeteria buzz fades to silence.

A delivery guy scans the crowd, overwhelmed. I gave him Evelyn's description, but two hundred shifters pack this room.

Then I see it—the moment her lips curve. Bullseye.

The guy approaches, confirms her identity, and presents the bouquet. Her smile falters into confusion. When she asks who sent them, he follows my script perfectly: "Check the card."

I paid triple to ensure flawless execution. Mom's florist friend nailed it.

Nathaniel nudges her to open the card. Her bewilderment lingers, and I can't suppress my smirk.

Mission accomplished:

Total surprise? ✔

Making her feel cherished? ✔

Broadcasting that she's being pursued? ✔✔

Genevieve swoons predictably, demanding details they don't have. Donovan elbows me under the table, flashing a covert thumbs-up.

Evelyn's gaze sweeps the room—then locks onto mine. Sweetheart, this is just the beginning. Pink floods her cheeks, sending heat straight to my groin. I shift, jeans suddenly restrictive.

She gathers the flowers and exits. I'm about to resume eating when her parting words hit me.

Game. On.

After school, I visit Celestia—the most exclusive restaurant in three counties. The owner nods through my meticulous instructions. Perfection isn't optional.

Donovan covers my training slack this week. I change quickly, joining the last hour. Extra workouts will compensate, but it's worth it. Seven days to stake my claim—I'm using every second.

Mom confirms she'll handle her part tomorrow. I collapse into bed, replaying Evelyn's smile until sleep takes me.

Adrian Grey

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