Chapter 0218

"No. But I've been neglecting my warriors' training since you arrived. I need to check on their progress."

Her expression softens. "Thank you. I know this isn't easy for you."

I press a kiss to her forehead. "I'd do anything to keep you happy, little mate. Even if it means tolerating that bastard."

"Now go." I give her backside a sharp smack. Her eyes widen, then darken with unmistakable desire before she scrambles away. Oh yes, we'll be revisiting that reaction later.

Playfully, I let out a low growl. She whirls around just as I leap from the bed. A squeal escapes her as she bolts for the bathroom. I catch her at the threshold, sweeping her into my arms. "Got you."

"Hardly a fair chase," she teases breathlessly.

Adjusting my grip, I turn on the shower with my free hand. "Run anytime you like, mate. Dorian and I love the hunt. And we always win."

A delicious shiver runs through her before I set her down. As we shower, I make a mental note to book her a salon appointment.

Later, I drop her at Gregory's place. Apparently Evelyn wants to give her another tour of the packhouse today. I remind them both to eat and not overexert themselves before kissing her goodbye.

Training with my warriors feels invigorating. Tristan gives me a solid sparring session while Nathaniel and Donovan circulate, offering corrections.

During our water break, Tristan wipes his brow. "So, Alpha... is it true? Is she really your mate?"

Every warrior within earshot stills, waiting for my answer.

"She is. But she's only just regained enough strength to recognize our bond. Her wolf Valeria hasn't surfaced yet."

"Is the Guardian part true?" another warrior asks.

"Yes. For those who remember Ivy Sinclair - Evelyn's mother - Seraphina carries the reincarnated Guardian spirit."

A ripple of growls spreads through the group when I confirm the vampires' seven-year captivity and the seven-million-dollar bounty on her head.

The discussion about the other girl's six-million bounty is interrupted by an urgent mind link from patrols.

"Alpha! White wolf approaching at full speed - she's not stopping at the border!"

The link broadcasts to all warriors, including Nathaniel and Donovan.

Another patrol chimes in. "She blew past us! Heading straight for the packhouse!"

A triumphant howl pierces the air - not aggressive, but exhilarated.

"Second perimeter breached! Still accelerating!"

"Description?" I demand.

"Pure white coat. Golden eyes brighter than any I've seen."

"Let her pass."

"Sir?"

"I said let her through!"

A chorus of acknowledgments echoes through the link.

Nathaniel frowns. "Who is it?"

The answer bursts from the tree line - a white blur streaking toward me. Even at this distance, those golden eyes burn like twin suns.

"Valeria!"

I barely have time to brace before she tackles me to the ground in a whirlwind of white fur and joyful energy.

She shifted!