Rejected and Pregnant I Fled The Pack (Evelyn and Damon) novel Chapter 212

I winced internally, understanding exactly how thoroughly my previous behavior had apparently traveled beyond our own territory. "That's... considerably harsher framing than I'd choose, but I understand why you might have that impression."

"So why should I believe this claim about being your mate," she continued, genuine skepticism evident in her sharp expression. "Rather than simply your latest attempt at pursuing whatever temporary attraction currently interests you?"

Her question hit harder than I expected, understanding the genuine weight of my own established reputation now working directly against me in exactly the situation where authenticity actually mattered most.

"Because this feels entirely different," I said honestly, understanding I needed to actually demonstrate genuine sincerity rather than my usual, practiced charm. "I've never experienced this kind of overwhelming, instinctive pull before. My wolf's genuinely restless, desperate to actually be near you. That's not something I can simply fabricate for temporary pursuit."

She continued studying me carefully, something thoughtful replacing her earlier sharp skepticism. "I don't smell anything particularly unusual," she said slowly. "Perhaps your wolf's simply mistaken, confused by whatever attraction you've already decided to pursue."

I shook my head, genuine frustration building at her continued dismissal. "This isn't confusion. I understand the genuine difference, Nadia. Whatever this connection is, it's considerably more significant than simple attraction."

She was quiet for a moment, considering my obvious sincerity despite her continued caution. "Even if you're genuinely correct," she said finally, "that doesn't automatically mean I'm interested in pursuing whatever relationship you're apparently suggesting. Especially given your established reputation."

"I understand," I said, though genuine disappointment settled heavy in my chest at her continued reluctance. "I'm not asking for immediate commitment, Nadia. I'm simply asking for genuine opportunity to actually demonstrate I'm capable of being different than whatever reputation you've apparently heard about."

She studied me carefully, something calculating behind her guarded expression. "I'm here for trade negotiations, Ethan. Not romantic pursuit."

"I understand that too," I said, though my wolf continued protesting internally at her obvious hesitation. "But perhaps, while you're here, we could simply talk. Get to know each other properly, without any immediate pressure toward anything more significant."

She considered that for a long moment, genuine internal deliberation visible behind her sharp, assessing eyes. "Perhaps," she said finally, something cautiously curious replacing her earlier dismissive skepticism. "Though I want to be genuinely clear, Ethan. I'm not interested in becoming another name on whatever list of temporary conquests you've apparently accumulated throughout these past several years."

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