Chapter 0032

Alistair's dominant aura faded as he relaxed his posture. "You're absolutely right, my old friend. I'm relieved the price was merely one night of training."

I exhaled in temporary relief until his piercing gaze locked onto me again. "Now Evelyn, after today's little demonstration, why are you so certain my son isn't the one sending those gifts?"

My boots scuffed against the floorboards as I avoided eye contact. How could I admit how deeply it wounded me that Adrian didn't recognize me - or likely my parents either? The last thing I wanted was for Alistair to tell his son about my humiliation. Adrian should have known my identity years ago.

"I'd prefer not to answer, Alpha."

His scrutinizing stare lasted several heartbeats before my father intervened. "Alistair, help me with these steaks." Dad shoved the platter into his hands, successfully breaking the tense moment. "Of course, Grant."

During dinner, Dad inquired about the rogue situation. Alistair detailed the alarming surge in attacks over recent months. My father noted the increased patrols but hadn't realized our borders had been breached multiple times. Their discussion turned to how we could assist. "You know what I'm asking, Grant."

That silent alpha communication passed between them before Dad finally conceded, "I'll consider it."

A satisfied smirk crossed Alistair's face as dessert arrived - Seraphina's famous chocolate cheesecake. I made sure to praise the Luna's baking skills. "Come tell her yourself at the packhouse," Alistair suggested. I agreed, especially since I'd be attending Saturday's celebration.

Rather than staying for after-dinner drinks, Alistair excused himself. "Need to speak with my son and confirm our alliance with Sebastian still stands. Damage control can't wait."

We bid our goodnights. I watched his silhouette disappear into the forest shadows heading toward Blackthorn territory.

Alistair

I'd sensed Adrian's presence the moment he arrived near the Sinclair property. My son had been eavesdropping the entire time, even mindlinking confirmation about Sebastian's unchanged alliance after Evelyn recounted today's incident.

Her refusal to explain why she doubted Adrian's courtship baffled me. The signs were obvious - my son was clearly claiming our Guardian. Yet she remained stubbornly unconvinced. Why?

Adrian's silence on the matter concerned me. Had he somehow offended Evelyn? Grant's comment about "one night of training" suddenly took darker meaning. If Adrian's mistakes proved irreparable...if Evelyn chose Sebastian as mate instead...

The consequences would devastate us. Not just Adrian and Theron, but our entire pack. Nightshade would become the dominant territory. And though Grant and I share an unbreakable bond, I know he'll always prioritize Evelyn over pack politics.

I found Adrian in wolf form beneath the pines. Magnus stirred within me. "Son. We need to talk."