Chapter 0086

I stop by the front office to check in. They're already briefed about my return and welcome me back with warm smiles. A late pass gets scribbled for my first class since I'm running behind.

By mid-morning, I spot Adrian surrounded by his usual fan club. That familiar pang of jealousy tries to surface, but Selene shuts it down fast. 'Remember how he publicly claimed you? Powerful Alphas naturally attract attention. Watch closely – he's barely tolerating them.'

She's right. His bored expression says it all as he politely endures their chatter. Just as I gather the courage to approach, his head snaps up. Our eyes lock.

He cuts through the crowd like a hot knife through butter.

"Evelyn." His hands roam my arms, scanning me head to toe. "You should be resting. Why aren't you home?"

The concern in his voice makes me smile. "Because I'd go crazy staring at walls all day. Besides, I feel stronger every hour."

His shoulders relax slightly. "You're full of surprises, Little Guardian."

I hand him the cream-colored envelope I'd prepared last night. His brow furrows as he examines it. "What's this?"

'Just say it,' Selene urges.

My fingers twist together. "You mentioned never getting to have dinner with our fathers... So I arranged something. Tonight. If you—"

"Yes." The word bursts out before I finish. His sudden grin could power the city. Then doubt clouds his features. "Will your father actually let me through the door?"

I arch an eyebrow. "Scared of my dad, Alpha?"

"Terrified," he admits without shame. "That man could bench press a truck."

"Good thing you've got a Guardian then." I tap my chest. "I'll protect you."

The playful glint in his eyes shifts into something darker, hungrier. "Best perk of being mated."

Heat floods my cheeks. "I should—" My thumb jerks toward class, but his gaze pins me in place.

His fingertips trace my jawline, tucking a loose strand behind my ear. When he speaks, his voice drops to that velvet growl that makes my knees weak. "Let me walk you."

My tongue darts out to wet suddenly dry lips. Big mistake. His pupils blow wide as he leans in, breath hot against my ear. "Unless you want me to devour you in front of the entire student body, stop doing that."

He pulls back just enough to drag his nose along my cheekbone. The smirk he flashes tells me he knows exactly what he's doing to me.

My backpack changes shoulders as he takes charge. "Come on, trouble. Wouldn't want you late." His palm settles possessively on the small of my back as we move.

Selene's laughter echoes in my mind. I'm just as gone for him as she is.