Chapter 0042

The tension eased as we shifted to lighter topics, though the underlying issues remained. Sebastian had been dealing with rogue attacks too, coordinating with nearby packs to uncover their motives.

Training became the next subject. Sebastian tried persuading Gregory to train his warriors. My father chuckled, shaking his head. "If my own Alpha can't convince me to train our pack, what makes you think I'd train yours?"

"Wishful thinking?" Sebastian smirked. "Or maybe the fact I might become your son-in-law?"

Gregory's eyes twinkled. "Prove you're worthy of my daughter, then we'll talk."

I served my homemade bread pudding. Their empty plates confirmed it was a hit.

After dinner, I cleared the table while Gregory announced his retirement for the night. His pointed look at Sebastian spoke volumes.

"Alpha's honor, I won't overstay," Sebastian promised.

With a nod, Gregory retreated to his room.

Sebastian helped me finish cleaning. We took our wine glasses to the back porch, sitting in comfortable silence as we watched the moonlit forest.

"See you at tomorrow's gathering?" Sebastian asked.

"Luna Seraphina personally invited me," I confirmed. "And Alpha Alistair insisted Gregory attend too." His raised eyebrow mirrored my own surprise at that development.

When we finished our wine, Sebastian prepared to leave. At his car, he suddenly pinned me against the door, his lips hovering centimeters from mine. "Dinner was exceptional."

My gaze dropped to his mouth before meeting his smoldering eyes. "The training session was... invigorating."

His pupils dilated. "I can think of far more effective ways to work up a sweat." His breath ghosted over my lips. "Methods that'll leave you deliciously sore."

Heat pooled low in my belly. I traced his lower lip with my tongue - his control shattered.

The kiss turned possessive, demanding. His hardening length pressed against me as his fingers tangled in my hair, tilting my head for deeper access. My nails scored his back through his shirt, earning a growl.

When his mouth traveled down my neck, his tongue flicked over my future mating spot. A shudder wracked my body, my moan echoing in the night air.

"Sebastian," I gasped as his hands found my breasts.

"Say my name again," he commanded, grinding against me. "I want to hear you scream it later."

Breaking the kiss, he fixed me with that devastating look. "Let me show you our future, Evelyn." His nose brushed mine. "Do you trust me?"

"Yes," I breathed.

His triumphant smile outshone the moon as he claimed my lips once more.