Chapter 0485

My cheeks burn with humiliation knowing Alpha Alistair saw me perched in Gregory's lap, even though nothing inappropriate occurred. But my embarrassment pales in comparison to the dread coiling in my stomach. Now two Alphas know my secret. If only I knew where to flee.

Gregory's warm hands slide down my arms from behind, sensing my distress. He turns me to face him. "You told me you trusted me, didn't you?" His voice is steady.

"I do," I whisper.

"Then believe me when I say I'll protect you. Neither Alistair nor Patrick will force a mating bond on you." His thumb brushes my cheek. "Not that I think they would, but I want you to feel safe. That will never happen while I'm breathing."

He leans in, pressing his lips to my forehead. The proximity makes my pulse stutter. Heat radiates from his bare chest through my clothes. The scent of cinnamon and baked apples clings to his skin - warm, comforting, like coming home after a long journey. My mouth waters involuntarily.

When he steps back, the world tilts. "I'll get dressed. Make yourself comfortable." He gestures to the chair where our compromising position occurred, reigniting my blush.

With a playful wink, he grabs his clothes and disappears into the bathroom. The door clicks shut just as knocking echoes through the room.

The aroma of roasted meat hits me as I approach. Opening the door reveals Beth from the kitchens, balancing a tray while striking what she must think is a seductive pose.

"Oh, Ivy. I thought Alpha Alistair was dining with Gregory tonight." Her tone drips with implication.

"Not tonight." My response comes out distracted as I step aside.

She sets the food on a small dining table with practiced ease, clearly familiar with Gregory's quarters. As she turns to leave, her parting shot lands like a slap: "Guess you're just like the rest of us she-wolves after all."

Gregory emerges from the bathroom, his voice cutting through the tension. "Actually, Ivy is unlike any she-wolf I've met, Beth. Intelligent. Compassionate. Fiercely dedicated to her training in ways that put most warriors to shame." He moves beside me. "Pity more females don't share her discipline."

Beth's gaze drops. "Yes, Guardian."

"Dismissed." He shuts the door firmly behind her.

For a moment, he just stands there. Then: "Ivy, about what she said-"

"It's fine." I wave him off, turning toward the food though my appetite has vanished. "She's only voicing what everyone will whisper once this spreads."

His hands settle on my shoulders from behind. "Let them whisper. Everything I said was truth." He circles to face me. "You were extraordinary before the Guardian spirit chose you. Now? I can't wait to see what you become."

His fingers lift my chin. "These past weeks... you've challenged me in ways I never expected. The more I discover about you, the more fascinated I become."

Taking my hand, he guides me to the table. As we sit, his expression grows serious. "Unfortunately, I suspect I'll have to start sharing your time more generously now."

"What do you mean?"

He spears a piece of meat thoughtfully. "Patrick will want you protected. When Evander chose me at ten, he moved my entire family into the packhouse. Don't be surprised if he suggests the same for you." His jaw tightens. "Though given your father's situation, that might prove... complicated."