Chapter 0260

The training session goes smoothly with Adrian and Sebastian assisting the warriors. Evelyn and Donovan move between sparring pairs, offering corrections. By sunset, we're all exhausted but satisfied as we return to the packhouse.

After dinner with Nathaniel and Genevieve, we prepare our bags for the trip to Blackthorn territory. Sleep comes easily despite the anticipation humming through my veins.

Morning finds us sharing breakfast with Alistair and Seraphina Grey. Alistair briefs Sebastian on the new security measures along vulnerable border points. When the meal ends, we exchange farewells and hit the road. The Greys depart simultaneously, and our vehicles arrive at Blackthorn's packhouse in unison.

The moment I step inside, his scent hits me like a tidal wave. Memories flood my consciousness, making my pulse spike. I quicken my pace, drawn toward the main hall like a magnet. There he stands. "Oberon."

His head lifts, lips curving into a familiar smile. "Guardian." He reaches for my hands, but Sebastian's vicious snarl stops him cold. A protective arm yanks me backward against Sebastian's chest.

Darkness swirls around Oberon like living shadows. The air turns thick enough to choke on as his eyes blacken completely. I feel Dorian and Sebastian's wolves rising to the surface, ready for violence.

I twist in Sebastian's grip, planting myself between them. "Sebastian. I know Oberon. Stand down."

"She belongs to me."

"Ownership requires consent," Oberon counters smoothly.

I whirl to face the fae king, keeping one hand pressed against Sebastian's chest. "Sebastian is my fated mate. My choice. This isn't like with Elowen, Oberon. Control yourself."

When he doesn't retreat, I release my aura in a sharp burst. The golden energy slams into Oberon with physical force.

"Don't force my hand," I warn. "My choice won't change."

The tension leaves his shoulders the instant my power touches him. "Forgive me, Guardian. I meant no disrespect."

"What about disrespect toward me?" Sebastian growls.

"Sebastian."

Oberon's jaw tightens. "History colors my perception of Alphas and their treatment of Guardians. Too often, they're coerced into unwanted bonds."

Ignoring Sebastian's warning rumble, I step closer to Oberon and grasp his forearm. "Not this time. You have my oath as a Guardian."

"What shall I call you now?"

"Seraphina. My wolf is Valeria. It's good to see you again, old friend."

"And you. When Evelyn told me you'd been found..." His voice catches. "I've searched since Ivy's death. Thought I'd located you once, but you vanished." He finally notices the ring of bristling werewolves surrounding us.

"Evelyn mentioned you'd need the full story. While I'm here, I'd like to document your experiences. Nearly a century has passed since Valeria's line was last recorded."

"Of course. I'd enjoy catching up properly." Again I touch his arm. Again Sebastian growls. Again I ignore him. "You should know—Elowen never stopped loving you."

His throat works visibly. "Thank you. My love for her endured until her last breath."

"Can we move the hell on?" Sebastian demands.

I cup his face, waiting until his stormy eyes meet mine. "What I feel for Oberon mirrors my bond with Gregory. Guardian spirits don't reincarnate with human emotions, Sebastian. I carry Jinelle and Ivy's memories, but my heart belongs only to you."

His hands find my hips, pulling me flush against him. "Does he understand that?"

"As the Guardian's historian for over a hundred years, I'm certain he comprehends how reincarnation works. Isn't that right, Oberon?"

"Seraphina speaks truth. My affection stems from history with Elowen's line, but I know that bond died with my mate. What I feel for your mate is familial, not romantic."

Sebastian's gaze never wavers from mine. "You and me, Sebastian."

His forehead drops to mine with a sigh. "You and me, Seraphina."