Alpha's STOLEN Mate (by Abigail Hayes) novel Chapter 245

Chapter 245

Elowen

Before rushing off to chase Evelyn halfway across the continent, I needed more information. Facts, not just gut feelings and psychic

impressions.

I squeezed Scarlett’s shoulder reassuringly. “Don’t panic. Just wait for me-stay ready to move if I confirm something’s actually wrong.”

She nodded, though her face remained tight with worry.

I made my way through the castle to Kaius’s office, my mind churning with possibilities and fears.

When I pushed open the door, Kaius looked up from a stack of documents, his expression immediately shifting to amusement at the sight

of my face.

“Well, well! What’s this?” He leaned back in his chair, grinning. “Is my Queen already taking her new role so seriously? That’s quite the

intimidating expression you’re wearing! Very regal!”

I didn’t have patience for his teasing. “Kaius. I need to ask you something. Now.”

His smile faded slightly, reading the urgency in my tone. “Alright. What’s wrong?”

“That green-eyed vampire-Zane. What do you know about his background?” The words came out in a rush. “Do you think it’s dangerous that Evelyn left with him? Where exactly did they go?”

Kaius’s eyebrows rose. He set down his quill carefully. “Zane Corvinus? Honestly? He’s probably the warmest vampire I’ve ever encountered. Pleasant, even-though his flirtatious style can be grating.” He waved dismissively. “But dangerous? No. The man’s reputation is solid. He rules the Ashenvale territories—one of the few vampire lords who actively maintains diplomatic relations with wolf

packs.”

He leaned forward, his expression softening. “Elowen, if anything, Zane will protect Evelyn. He’s too politically savvy to risk an incident with a powerful witch traveling under his hospitality.” A knowing smile crossed his face. “And even if something did happen-do you really think anyone could take advantage of Evelyn? That woman’s more dangerous than half the vampires in his court!*

His words eased something tight in my chest. The panic that had been clawing at me since touching that letter loosened slightly.

“Okay. That’s… that’s good to know.” I took a breath. “So where exactly is Ashenvale? I want to go there. Just to check on her.”

Kaius’s expression immediately shifted to concern mixed with exasperation. “My Queen. You are Queen now. You can’t just run off on impulse anymore!” He stood, moving around the desk. “If you miss Evelyn, I’ll send a messenger. If you’re worried about her safety. Scarlett can make the trip and bring her back if needed.”

“But-”

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Chapter 245

“Elowen.” His voice took on that firm, Alpha tone. ‘You’re being paranold because you miss your friend. She’s fine. More than fine-she’s probably having the time of her life! He placed his hands on my shoulders. “Besides, we have critical meetings this afternoon. You need to be there. Queens don’t skip Council sessions because they’re worried about friends on vacation.”

I felt frustration building, but doubt crept in alongside it. If Zane truly was as trustworthy as Kaius claimed… if Evelyn really was just on an adventure… then maybe my psychic impression had been wrong? Maybe I’d misread the situation?

“What about tomorrow? I tried. “Could I go tomorrow?”

Kaius pulled me closer, his expression somewhere between amused and concerned. ‘My Queen, you’re exhausted. You’re not thinking clearly.” His thumbs rubbed soothing circles on my shoulders. “Tell you what-if you’re really that worried, we’ll go together tomorrow. I’l personally escort you to Ashenvale, and we’ll drag Evelyn back ourselves. I’ll even punch Zane for making you anxious.”

He tilted his head, giving me a pointed look. “But I’m warning you-if Evelyn’s happily exploring vampire nightlife and you interrupt her

adventure, she’ll be furious with you. You know how she gets.”

His casual tone, the reasonableness of his arguments-it all made my panic seem increasingly irrational. Maybe I was overreacting. Maybe the stress of the coronation, the lack of sleep, the intensity of everything had made me misinterpret a simple farewell letter.

Fuck. I can’t make decisions without more information.

I exhaled slowly, forcing myself to think strategically rather than emotionally. “Fine. I’ll investigate further before doing anything rash. I’ll

have Scarlett look into it.” I met his eyes, my voice firm. “But if things turn out to be as bad as I think they are, you won’t stop me from

going. Understood?”

Kaius held up his hands in mock surrender, that infuriating smile returning. “I wouldn’t dare try to stop you, my Queen! I value my life

too much!”

Then his expression grew more serious, though warmth remained in his eyes. “But please-focus on pack business for now. You need to

understand something: that crown comes with power, yes, but also with weight. Responsibility. People are counting on you now.”

The words settled heavily on my shoulders. He was right, much as I hated to admit it. I’d fought so hard to become Queen, to earn this position. I couldn’t immediately abandon my duties because of a bad feeling.

“You’re right.” The admission tasted bitter. “Okay. Pack business first.” I paused. “What’s this afternoon meeting about, anyway?”

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