Chapter 0072

I inhale sharply, exhaling as if it's the first real breath I've taken in days.

"What does this mean for the future?" My voice is steady, but my heart races. I need to know if our bond still stands.

Dr. Whitmore meets my gaze. "We'll need more tests, but there are two possibilities. First, Evelyn will likely recover fully with no lasting connection to the Beta. Second, this explains why Theron can barely sense Selene—she's using all her strength to fight the venom."

Grant Sinclair steps forward. "What are you doing to help her? You promised you'd do everything."

"We are," Dr. Whitmore assures him. "IV fluids to flush the venom, liquid nutrients to rebuild her strength. She's severely dehydrated and hasn't eaten since she was taken."

Grant nods grimly. "Training protocol. Drink when safe, never eat anything that could be drugged."

"If progress continues, she could wake as early as tomorrow," the doctor adds. "Though Tuesday is more probable."

My shoulders sag in relief. She’s going to be okay. She’ll wake up. The rest—the bond, the aftermath—can wait. Time is all I need to give her.

"Thank you, Doctor," my father says.

Once we’re alone, he turns to me. "Adrian, go clean up. Eat something."

"I'm fine."

"Son." His tone cuts through me. "You're still covered in blood from the fight." I glance down, startled. I'd forgotten. "Do you really want her waking up to see you like this?"

I stand abruptly. To Grant, I say, "I'll be back soon. If she wakes—"

"You'll know immediately," he promises.

I follow my father out. After a scalding shower, I dress quickly, ready to return to the hospital.

"Adrian." My mother’s voice stops me at the kitchen doorway.

A sandwich waits on the table. "Sit. Eat. You’re no good to her exhausted." Her fingers brush my shoulder as I sit. "Ten minutes won’t change anything. Your father is checking in with Grant."

I take a bite. She doesn’t speak, just rubs my back in that quiet, steady way only mothers can. The simple kindness nearly undoes me. This is why every Alpha needs a Luna—someone to anchor them when they’re drowning in duty. My mother isn’t just a parent; she’s the heart of our pack.

When I finish, I hug her tightly, lingering longer than usual. Words aren’t needed.

Back at the hospital, Sebastian has joined Grant in Evelyn’s room. He’s cleaned up, taken my seat, and now holds her hand. My jaw clenches, but I force a nod. The growl building in my chest stays locked inside.