Chapter 0040

The meeting with Oberon took place in his private study. That's where I first laid eyes on the ancient tome. It struck me as peculiar that the Fae King possessed a historical record of the werewolf guardians, but my attention was quickly diverted to more pressing concerns - ensuring the safety of our pack members. Oberon declared himself in my debt that day. Truthfully, I never intended to call in that favor. My actions weren't motivated by political gain, but by simple decency. Finnian had been merely a child of five at the time.

Months later, when the memory of that book resurfaced, I began searching for another copy. After nearly a year of fruitless efforts, I consulted my father. That's when I discovered the terrible truth - only one such volume exists, crafted by the Guardians, for the Guardians. How Oberon's ancestors obtained it remains a mystery, but now it's finally where it belongs - in the hands of a true Guardian.

I observe as Evelyn inquires about a missing card. Oberon had reluctantly agreed to serve as my courier for this precious delivery. Securing his cooperation had been no small feat. Only the book's immense value convinced him to personally transport it, and only after I swore it would reach a legitimate Guardian - its rightful custodian.

He's correct about one thing - the book needs no introduction. When he declares our debt settled, I murmur my agreement, acutely aware of the Fae King's supernatural hearing that surpasses even our kind.

The shock flashing across Evelyn's face as she unwraps the gift sends Theron rumbling with satisfaction in my mind. She recognizes its significance immediately. Her whispered gratitude confirms we chose perfectly.

Clutching the ancient text to her chest, her gaze sweeps the room and locks with mine. Does she understand it came from me? Few could orchestrate such a delivery. In truth, only one. Me. But she likely doesn't realize that yet. My subtle nod acknowledges her unspoken thanks. Perhaps now she'll comprehend that I know exactly who she is - how vital she, Selene, and her lineage are to the pack, to my family, but most importantly, to me and Theron.

If today's events haven't made that clear, tomorrow's certainly will.

Training that afternoon buzzes with excitement about my impending birthday celebration. An Alpha's eighteenth birthday isn't an ordinary occasion. Naturally, everyone wants to attend.

Julian approaches me post-training with amusing news - there's a betting pool circulating about my potential mate. Bianca has been telling anyone who'll listen that she's destined to be my chosen one, landing her in the top five alongside other she-wolves I've been involved with. My interest only sparks when Julian mentions Evelyn's name among the contenders.

"Evelyn, is it?"

Julian studies me carefully. "Well, her mystery man remains unidentified, and you're currently tied for first place."

"Who's the other frontrunner?" I ask, already knowing Sebastian has been ruled out.

"Donovan, naturally."

I nod curtly and head toward the forest, eager to check on Evelyn's training session with Sebastian. Maintaining focus during drills has been challenging with jealousy gnawing at me over their private sessions.

I arrive near the Sinclair residence just as Grant enters from the training facility. Not spotting Evelyn or Sebastian outside, I edge closer to investigate. The indoor location works to my advantage - they won't detect my presence as easily.

Theron grows increasingly agitated as we approach. Tuning into his heightened senses, I understand why - Evelyn's soft moans mingle with Sebastian's pleasure-filled growls. Theron nearly rips control from me in his fury when suddenly they emerge hand-in-hand from the building. With immense effort, I restrain him and settle into watchful waiting.