Chapter 0017

The school bell finally rings. I help Nathaniel with his books before heading home, still carrying those mysterious flowers that brightened my entire afternoon. No one's ever surprised me like this before. My mind keeps racing through possibilities, but the list is endless. The mystery remains, but I'm far from giving up.

Dad's voice greets me before I even close the door. "There's my girl! How was your... wait, what's this?" His eyes lock onto the bouquet in my arms.

"These?" I play dumb, flashing him an exaggerated innocent look. "Just some flowers from a secret admirer." I can't help admiring them again.

"White roses," he observes. "You know what they symbolize, right?"

I blink in confusion. "Colors have meanings?"

"Absolutely. White represents purity and devotion."

"Well, they know I'm a Guardian, so devotion fits. As for purity..." I waggle my eyebrows suggestively, making us both laugh.

"Go change for training, Evie. Meet me outside in five."

Later, I find myself staring at the roses, puzzling over who could have sent them.

My phone buzzes with a text from Sebastian.

Sebastian: Heard I've got competition.

Me: Only if you consider owing me flowers competition.

Sebastian: Mmm. Someone's marking territory, Evelyn.

Me: They're flowers, not a mating proposal. Did you know colors have meanings?

Sebastian: Specifically roses. White symbolizes innocence and purity.

Me: Dad said devotion and purity. They clearly know I'm a Guardian.

Sebastian: If you need help with that purity situation, you know where to find me.

Damn him. Just the suggestion has me squirming. I need to change the subject fast.

Me: If you're my mate, all of me belongs to you anyway.

The reply takes longer than usual.

Sebastian: Cold shower time. Go to bed, Evelyn. Sweet dreams... of me.

Me: Goodnight, Sebastian.

Training the next morning is brutal - not from the exercises, but from the constant teasing. Every warrior wants to know about my mystery admirer, offering to "handle" the situation if needed. These conversations help me eliminate most suspects - they're like brothers to me. Only one name remains: Donovan.

At school, I'm on high alert, scanning every face for clues. By lunchtime, frustration sets in as nothing stands out. Nathaniel joins me in the cafeteria line when a sharply dressed woman in designer heels approaches.

"Evelyn Sinclair?"

I eye her warily. "Yes?"

"Perfect." She gestures to a cart with a silver-domed platter and other elegant place settings.

"Lead the way to your usual table," she instructs.

I don't move. "What exactly is this?"

"Your lunch, of course."

"I didn't order anything special."

"It was ordered for you." Her smile doesn't waver.

"By who?"

"There's a card, but I can't give it to you until you're seated."

Right. Mysterious much?

I head to my usual spot with Nathaniel gaping beside me. Genevieve materializes at my side, linking arms. "What's happening?"

"Apparently someone sent me lunch."

Her eyebrow arches. "Who?"

I shrug. "Your guess is as good as mine. No card until after I'm eating."

We reach the table and I turn to the hostess. "Your name?"

"Theodora."

"Theodora, this is my spot." I start to set down my bag.

"One moment please." She stops me, and I pull my bag back, exchanging confused glances with my friends.