Alpha King Chases Abandoned Luna novel Chapter 311

The next morning, I returned to find Lucas exactly where I'd left him, his vigilant presence unchanged despite the hours that had passed.

"You stayed all night," I observed, setting down my bag.

"I said I would," he replied simply, rising from the chair. "Your mother's condition is stable. There's been no change."

I nodded, both relieved and disappointed. Stable meant she wasn't getting worse, but she also wasn't waking up.

"You must be hungry," Lucas said, checking his watch. "The private dining area should be open. Join me for breakfast."

It wasn't really a question, but I found I didn't mind his commanding tone. After the emotional roller coaster of the past few days, there was something comforting about not having to make decisions.

The medical den's private dining area was quiet, reserved for pack officials and special guests. Lucas had already arranged for food to be waiting for us—a selection of fresh fruits, venison sausage, and warm bread.

As we ate, Lucas pushed a thermos toward me. "Spiced Longan-Ginger Red Date Tea," he explained. "It helps with the pain."

I looked at him in surprise. "How did you know?"

A hint of a smile touched his lips. "Your scent changes slightly. Most wolves wouldn't notice, but I pay attention."

I felt my cheeks warm at his admission. The fact that he had noticed such a personal detail about me was both embarrassing and oddly touching.

"Thank you," I said, pouring the fragrant tea. The warm, spicy aroma was immediately soothing.

Lucas nodded, his usually intimidating demeanor softened in the morning light. "We should visit the Shadow Creek Police Precinct after breakfast. I want to hear directly from the officers about Victoria's detention."

I agreed, taking a sip of the tea. The blend of herbs immediately eased the cramping pain I'd been trying to ignore.

"James Knight arrived while you were sleeping," Lucas informed me. "He's with your mother now."

I nearly choked on my tea. "James is here? When did he get back?"

"Early this morning. He seems quite protective of you and your mother."

There was a note in Lucas's voice I couldn't quite identify—not jealousy, exactly, but something close to it.

After finishing our meal, we prepared to leave for the police precinct. We stopped by my mother's room first, where James sat vigilantly by her bedside.