Chapter 0492

I spin around to face him. "She's my mate. I won't do anything to hurt her or keep us apart. And when she's ready to accept our bond, she'll be mine." Evander's deep growl vibrates through me, reinforcing my words.

He shakes his head and retreats into his room without another word.

Back in my own space, I grab the guitar and pull up an online tutorial. My fingers fumble over the chords for an hour before I finally set it aside and reach for my phone.

Me: How are you holding up, Ivy?

Mate: I'm okay. Thanks for asking.

Me: Need anything? Warm milk? Cookies? Maybe some soap?

I grin, hoping to tease a smile out of her.

Mate: Are you saying I smell bad?

Good. She's playing along.

Me: Not at all. I love how you smell. Just making sure you're taken care of.

Mate: What do I smell like to you?

Me: Like vanilla and cinnamon.

Mate: And that's... good?

Me: Perfect.

Mate: Has anyone ever told you you're strange?

Me: Strange in a good way or bad way?

Mate: So far, good.

Me: Try to get some rest, Ivy. Patrick approved our training session. Tomorrow morning, I own your time.

Mate: Looking forward to it.

Me: Sleep well. But if you need me, just text.

I wait, but no reply comes. After a quick shower, I climb into bed, leaving my phone volume up just in case. My last thought before drifting off is of her.

A ping jolts me awake in the dead of night. I've always been a light sleeper. The screen lights up with her name.

Mate: Are you awake?

I knew she'd struggle to sleep. Instead of texting back, I pull on sweatpants and a hoodie, then slip out my window.

Her blinds rustle when I tap lightly on the glass. Her eyes widen as she yanks the window open. "What are you doing here?" she whispers.

"You texted. I wanted to see you."

"You didn't have to climb up here." She glances down at the three-story drop, biting her lip.

"Trouble sleeping?" I brush my thumb under her eye, tracing the faint shadows.

She shakes her head.

"Come on." I offer my hand.

"Where?"

"Trust me."

After a heartbeat, her fingers curl around mine. I help her out, and we shuffle carefully along the ledge until the roof slopes upward. Once we reach the flat section, I grab the blanket I keep stashed here and spread it out.

"How many girls have you brought up here, Grant?" Her voice is tight.

I cup her face, forcing her to meet my gaze. "Just you, Ivy. This is my escape. No one else comes here."

I guide her down, tapping my chest. She hesitates before resting her head against me. Evander rumbles contentedly.

She laughs softly. "Evander, you're such a flirt."

"He can't help it. You're special to both of us."

I feel her exhale against me as I thread my fingers through her hair. Above us, the stars glitter. Evander's purring vibrates through my chest, and soon, her breathing evens out.

When I'm sure she's asleep, I let myself drift off too, her warmth anchoring me.