Chapter 0497

After finishing dinner, I retreat to my room for a quick shower and change of clothes before Seraphina arrives. I gather my study materials and head downstairs just as she steps through the packhouse doors.

"Hey, Sera."

"Evelyn!" We embrace like we haven't seen each other in weeks, though it's only been hours.

"Did your parents mention anything about you coming here tonight?" I ask.

She shakes her head. "No. They saw the warrior Alpha Gregory sent to your house for your belongings, but they haven't spoken to your parents at all."

"What did you tell them?"

"That you're staying at the packhouse now, but I didn't know the details."

"Thanks. Listen, Luna Penelope and Beta Beatrice want to meet you. They've invited you to dinner here tomorrow night."

"Me? Why?"

I shrug. "No idea. Maybe so I won't feel so out of place." I lower my voice. "Sitting at the ranked table was... awkward."

We're giggling when we turn the corner and nearly collide with Luna Penelope.

"Luna Penelope, this is my best friend, Seraphina Grey."

"Oh, Seraphina." The Luna takes both her hands. "You're absolutely stunning. We'd love for you to join us for dinner tomorrow. I'm happy to speak with your parents if needed."

I watch Sera's cheeks flush the same way mine did earlier. "I'm sure they won't mind, Luna. Thank you for inviting me."

"Before you study—" Luna Penelope turns, "Beatrice!"

Beta Beatrice emerges from another room, her face lighting up. "Is this Seraphina?"

"Yes, isn't she lovely?"

"Absolutely breathtaking. It's wonderful to meet you. You'll be joining us tomorrow evening?"

"Y-yes, Beta."

"Perfect. We'll have more time to chat then. Enjoy your studies."

As we walk away, Sera grips my arm. "What just happened?"

"Your guess is as good as mine."

The study session proves interesting. When we arrive, Donovan and Alistair have arranged separate tables—forcing us to split up.

"Why don't we combine the tables?" I suggest.

Alistair answers too quickly. "We set it up this way to focus on our shared classes without distractions. Sera, you can work with me on the anatomy exam."

I shoot her a look before we separate.

"Did you tell her?" Donovan's voice echoes in my mind, asking if I've revealed my Guardian status. I shake my head subtly.

Studying with Donovan surprises me. When he actually applies himself, his intelligence rivals his physical prowess. While I appreciate a sculpted physique as much as any she-wolf, a sharp mind excites me more. Maybe because muscles can be built with dedication, but intellect is harder to fake. I find myself anticipating tomorrow's session.

As we finish, I notice Sera packing up. "I'll walk you home," Alistair offers.

"That's not necessary," she replies.

He places his hand over hers, waiting until she meets his gaze. "Maybe not, but I'll sleep better knowing you're safe." He holds eye contact until she nods.

"Now's your chance," Donovan murmurs, giving me a look that says the choice is mine.

I exhale. "Before you go, Sera, there's something you should see."

I close the study room door—against protocol, but necessary. When I turn, Sera's frowning. "Evelyn?"

"There's another reason I'm living here now. Something even fewer people know about."

Her eyes dart between Donovan and Alistair before settling on me. "Okay."

I let Valeria surface, my eyes shifting to gold.

Sera's hands fly to her mouth. "Moon Goddess," she breathes.

"You're a Guardian."