Chapter 0482

"Stop pretending. You know exactly what I mean." His breath is hot against my skin as he leans closer, lips brushing my neck before trailing up to my ear. "I can't wait to take you for a spin."

I jerk back, pressing myself against the car door. "Actually, I'm saving myself... for my mating night." Telling him I'm waiting for my true mate won't matter. He's already made it clear he doesn't care.

His eyes flash with something dark and hungry. "You're untouched?" The words slither out, thick with desire, making my stomach twist.

I force myself to nod. "Yes." My voice cracks. Goddess, get me out of here.

His grin turns predatory. "This just got more interesting. Your birthday night will be unforgettable when I claim that first taste."

The car finally stops at the packhouse. I bolt out before he can touch me again. "I'm exhausted. It's been a long day, and I need time to process everything. Goodnight, Alpha."

I don't wait for a response. I sprint to my room, barely making it to the bathroom before I empty my stomach.

Valeria, please tell me we won’t accept him. For the first time since she came to me, my wolf stays silent. The loneliness is suffocating.

I grab my phone and see a message from Grant. Instantly, my racing heart slows.

It's late, but I need to know he’s coming tomorrow. Somehow, he sensed something was wrong with this visit. I want to tell him everything—see if he has a plan to reject this Alpha without starting a war.

He won’t be back until evening. He warns me not to tell my father. Like that’s an option—I haven’t seen him all day.

I lock my door, knowing it won’t stop Alpha Dominic. Sleep won’t come tonight.

I change into pajamas—thankful for the full set instead of a flimsy nightgown—then wrap myself in a blanket and perch on the windowsill. The clock ticks mercilessly.

At some point, the doorknob rattles softly. He doesn’t use his key.

Then, deep in the night, Valeria surges forward with a jolt.

Ivy, go to the bathroom.

What? Why?

Just do it.

I flick on the light. "What’s happening?"

Look in the mirror.

My hands fly to my mouth. Valeria, why are your eyes gold?

We’ve been blessed. I’m a Guardian now.

Panic claws up my throat. No one can know. Not Alpha Dominic, not anyone. You know what they do to female Guardians. We’d never leave this pack alive. Don’t even tell Alpha Patrick. Stay hidden in my mind until we’re home. No matter what happens, don’t come forward.

Agreed. But there’s someone who can help us.

Grant and Evander.

We need to get home first. I pull her back before she can argue.

At dawn, I dress quickly, pack my bag, and head downstairs for coffee. My father stumbles in, looking wrecked.

"Ivy, have you heard from Grant? Is he coming back today?"

"Yes. He said they’re on their way." It’s not a lie—just not the whole truth.