Rise of the Banished She-Wolf (Evelyn) novel Chapter 45

**Where Falling Leaves Whisper Stories Written In Silence by Ryn Jace Reed**

**Chapter 45**

Evelyn

As I sat at the table, savoring each bite of my meal, I felt a wave of relief wash over me that Devon had chosen to steer clear of my earlier emotional outburst. It was a small mercy, one that allowed me a moment to gather my scattered thoughts. Just when I thought I could finally breathe a little easier, an unexpected fragrance wafted through the air, halting me in my tracks—mountain air mingled with the delicate scent of wild roses.

“Devon! What a delightful surprise!” The voice cut through my moment of peace like a knife.

I looked up, and my heart sank as I spotted Emilia, accompanied by her brother Alex. In a frantic attempt to avoid their gaze, I quickly focused on my plate, pretending to be utterly engrossed in the meticulous task of cutting my scallops.

Devon’s demeanor shifted instantly. I could see the tension in his jaw, the way his muscles tightened. “Emilia. Alex. I wasn’t expecting to see you here,” he replied, his tone neutral but laced with an undercurrent of irritation.

“The best encounters are unexpected ones, aren’t they?” Emilia purred, her eyes darting briefly toward me before settling back on Devon, her smile bright yet disingenuous. “We just closed a major deal and thought we’d celebrate. Mind if we join you?”

Before Devon could articulate a protest, Emilia had already slid into the booth beside him, her presence imposing and unwelcome. “You don’t mind, do you?” she asked, though her tone left no room for a real answer.

“Actually—” Devon began, but Alex had already taken the seat next to Emilia, effectively boxing Devon in against the wall.

“I insist,” Emilia declared, her smile devoid of warmth, a predatory glint in her eyes.

Across the table, Devon’s gaze met mine, a silent apology flickering in those deep, expressive eyes. My stomach twisted in response, a strange mix of discomfort and protectiveness surging within me as I watched Emilia lean in closer, her shoulder brushing against his. My wolf, which had been quietly stirring moments ago, now paced restlessly within me, sensing the tension in the air.

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