Mated to Her Alpha Instructor (Eileen and Regis) novel Chapter 187

“Thank you, I whispered.

“Always, she replied, and something in her voice told me she meant more than just the bread.

The carriage ride back was surreal. Regis drove, personally ensuring we arrived safely. I sat beside Eileen, my body humming with tension, waiting for this fragile safety to shatter.

It didn’t. Eileen chatted quietly about nothing important–the weather, the landscape, how she looked forward to getting back to work. Normal things that had nothing to do with my shame or secrets.

When the medical station came into view, the carriage door burst open and Mira launched herself at Eileen.

“How’s your night with- She cut herself off, her eyes darting between Eileen and me. “Oh. Nina?”

I didn’t reply, just shrinking back.

Mira’s attention returned to Eileen, hands on hips. “What’s going on? When did you two become friends? Last I checked, Nina barely said three words to

anyone, and now you’re having sleepovers?”

Eileen stepped down carefully. “I ran into Nina yesterday evening. We got talking, and when it got late, I invited her to stay at the cabin. Seemed safer than

walking back alone.”

Such a simple lie. Such an ordinary explanation. And yet it covered everything–my panic, Silas’s attack, the night I’d spent sobbing in her arms. She was

protecting me, letting me keep dignity instead of becoming gossip.

I met her eyes, and she gave the smallest smile. A silent question.

I nodded, barely, and felt something crack open in my chest. No one had ever helped me like this before.

“Well. Mira looked between us with obvious suspicion but no malice. “I guess that’s nice. Friends are good.” She paused. “Even if some friends forget to

invite their best friend.”

“You can come visit anytime, Eileen said, laughing. “In fact, you’re overdue. And Regis wouldn’t mind.”

Mira pouted, then suddenly dug into her bag. “Oh! I almost forgot. My parents sent care packages this morning. She pulled out a decorative box and presented it to Eileen. “For you, o pregnant and perpetually hungry one. Mom’s convinced you’re not eating enough.”

Eileen accepted it with visible delight. “Your mother is a saint.”

*Tell her yourself next time.” Mira hesitated, then turned to me, her expression shifting to something more careful. I have a smaller box. It’s not much, just some of the same things, but…” She held it out–plain wood, a half the size of Eileen’s. “If Eileen’s treating you like such a good friend, then I guess I will

too.”

I stared at it like it might bite me. This had to be a test. Some trap where I’d reach and she’d snatch it away.

But Mira just stood there, patient. And when I finally extended my hand, she placed the box gently in my palm. The wood was warm from her bag. Real.

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4:10 pm P WMM.

Chapter 187

Thank you,” I whispered.

“You’re welcome.” Mira grinned, then turned to Eileen. “But seriously, I’m coming to the cabin soon. I refuse to be left out.”

They started walking, Mira chattering, Eileen making appropriately amused noises. I fell into step behind them, clutching the box.

Maybe they really are different.

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I’d thought that before. Had believed promises that hid knives. But something about the casual way Mira had included me–not making a big deal, just deciding Eileen’s friends were her friends–felt real.

I opened the box as I walked. Candied ginger, dried apple slices, honey–roasted almonds. Simple things. The kind friends shared. Thoughtfulness that said you matter enough to be included.

Ahead, Eileen glanced back, checking I was still there. When our eyes met, she smiled. Not pityingly. Just warmly. Like my presence was wanted.

Maybe, I thought, and this time I let myself lean into it instead of pushing away.

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