Rise of the Banished She-Wolf (Evelyn) novel Chapter 167

I processed this information, suddenly understanding why Vera had been so determined to find me.

“That’s why they targeted Aileen, I realized aloud. “They wanted to use her to get to me, and through me, to Moonlight’s resources.

A nurse knocked on the door, entering with a tray of medication. “Sorry to interrupt, but it’s time for your checkup, Ms. Gray.”

I sighed, turning to Edward and Gregory, “Would you mind stepping out for a few minutes?”

Gregory stood immediately. “Of course. I should be going anyway.”

Edward remained by the window. “I’ll wait outside.”

Edward

I watched Evelyn’s door close behind us, then turned to face Gregory Sterling in the empty hospital corridor. This was my chance to handle business my way, without Evelyn’s soft–hearted approach complicating things.

“I believe we have more to discuss,” I said quietly. “Perhaps somewhere more private?”

Gregory nodded, his posture stiff but respectful. “There’s a café on the ground floor.”

We walked in silence to the elevator and down to the hospital café. I scanned the room–habit from years of watching my back–before selecting a secluded corner table. We ordered coffee and waited until the server had left before speaking.

“I’ve been watching you, Mr. Sterling,” I began, my voice low and measured. “Your sudden interest in cooperating with Evelyn is…

intriguing.”

Gregory’s fingers tightened around his coffee cup. “I have my reasons.”

“I’m sure you do.” I reached into my jacket and pulled out a sealed envelope, sliding it across the table. “This contains documentation Moonlight’s assets in Eastern Europe. Assets that could be… redistributed with the right alliance.”

Gregory’s eyes widened slightly as he took the envelope. “Why show me this?”

“Because I want whoever hurt Evelyn to disappear from this world,” I stated coldly. I’d known Evelyn for years, watched her grow fror scared teenager into the formidable woman she was today. Anyone who harmed her would pay the ultimate price. “And I think you ca

help make that happen.”

Gregory opened the envelope, scanning the contents before looking up with new understanding. “The unrest in the Eastern Europea

Chapter 167

packs would destabilize my position there.”

Or strengthen it, depending on who emerges as the new Alpha King.” I sipped my coffee, enjoying the momentary flicker of surprise on his face. I have a list of potential candidates, Your son is among them—the university professor with an excellent reputation in both

werewolf and human circles.*

Gregory’s expression shifted from surprise to calculation. You would support my son’s claim?”

“My friends in Eastern Europe would ensure he becomes the next Alpha King,” I confirmed. The pieces were falling into place. Gregory Sterling had ambition, but more importantly, he had a weakness–his love for his son. “If you help us eliminate the White family’s

influence.”

Gregory leaned back in his chair, considering the offer. “And if the Sterling family succeeds?”

“Then you become Moonlight’s closest allies,” I said simply. “With all the benefits that entails.”

We both knew what that meant. Moonlight’s protection was worth more than gold in our world. Our technology, our intelligence network,

our resources–all at the Sterling family’s disposal. It was an offer few would refuse.

Gregory was silent for a long moment, weighing his options. Finally, he nodded. “The Whites have already begun making moves against

my family. I need to return to Eastern Europe soon to discuss policy with the werewolf council.”

“Do that,” I agreed. “But remember who your real allies are, Mr. Sterling.”

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