Rise of the Banished She-Wolf (Evelyn) novel Chapter 61

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

**Chapter 61**

**Devon**

As I strode purposefully through the grand marble corridors of the manor, my thoughts were consumed by one pressing question: Where was Eric? After ensuring Evelyn was settled with Olivia and Lily in the restroom, I felt a growing urgency to uncover the truth about Sebastian. His unexpected return to Seattle—and with Kate, of all people—seemed far too orchestrated to be mere coincidence.

I soon spotted Eric lounging in the guest area, casually sipping champagne while he observed the mingling crowd of wolves and humans with an air of detached amusement. I made my way toward him, bypassing the usual pleasantries that filled the air like a thick fog.

“Eric,” I said, lowering my voice to a conspiratorial whisper. “What’s the deal with Sebastian’s sudden return to the country?”

Eric looked up, genuine surprise flickering across his face. He shrugged, his confusion appearing sincere. “Honestly, I have no idea. Sebastian hasn’t reached out to me since he left for Europe three years ago.”

I frowned, my skepticism growing. “Then how in the world did he end up with Kate?”

“Again, I’m clueless,” Eric replied, shaking his head. “I only found out tonight when I saw them trying to get in together.”

A sigh escaped my lips as I ran a hand through my hair, frustration bubbling beneath the surface. This entire situation wasn’t adding up. Sebastian and Kate had never shared a close bond before his departure; their sudden partnership felt too contrived, too calculated.

“Listen,” I said, choosing my words carefully. “We both know you and your father are good people, free from hidden agendas. But you have to be cautious. Sebastian’s return feels… deliberate.”

Eric nodded, the weight of my warning settling in. “I’ll keep my eyes peeled.”

Just then, the unmistakable sound of heels clicking against the marble floor interrupted our conversation. I turned to see Emilia Redwood gliding toward us, her elaborate emerald gown accentuating her fiery red hair. The scent of her perfume—an intoxicating mix of mountain air and wild roses—wafted toward me before she even spoke.

“Devon,” she purred, her smile failing to reach her eyes, creating an unsettling contrast. “What are you two discussing so seriously?”

I maintained a neutral expression, unwilling to give her any satisfaction. “Business.”

“The ball is about to commence,” Emilia said, stepping closer to me with a predatory grace. “I thought you might want a partner worthy of your status.”

The implication hung in the air like a thick fog, and my patience began to fray. “I don’t need a partner, Emilia. I already have one.”

Her smile tightened, a flicker of amusement dancing in her eyes. “That wolfless Gray girl?” she laughed, the sound sharp and jagged like broken glass. “You can’t be serious about her.”

A surge of protectiveness rose within me, my wolf awakening as my eyes flashed with a golden hue. I sensed Eric tense beside me, fully aware of the storm brewing in my chest.

“Don’t ever call her that again,” I hissed, my voice dropping to a dangerous whisper. “I won’t give you a second warning.”

Emilia recoiled slightly, momentarily taken aback by the intensity of my reaction. With a forced smile, she excused herself, leaving Eric and me in an uncomfortable silence that felt thick enough to cut.

“I should find Evelyn,” I muttered, my mind already scanning the room for her.

I returned to the restroom, but only Olivia and Lily were present. A flicker of concern ignited within me.

“Where’s Evelyn?” I inquired, my voice laced with worry.

“She stepped out a few minutes ago,” Lily replied, her brow furrowed. “Said she needed some air.”

Nodding, I began my search through the manor, following the faint trace of Evelyn’s scent. It was challenging to track her; her wolf was sealed, rendering her scent weaker than that of an ordinary werewolf. Yet to me, the delicate notes of vanilla and moonlight were unmistakable, guiding me forward.

**Evelyn**

“What does that have to do with anything?” Devon asked, genuine confusion etched on his face.

“Everything,” I sighed, feeling the weight of my worries pressing down on me. “A wolfless mate would only diminish your standing among the packs. They already whisper about me—the white wolf who lost her power. I won’t drag you down with me.”

Devon’s expression softened, and he pulled me into his arms, enveloping me in warmth. “I don’t care what other wolves think. I only care about you.” His embrace tightened around me. “But I respect your decision. We’ll take this at your pace.”

Feeling a wave of relief wash over me, I relaxed against him, grateful for his understanding.

Twenty minutes later, we entered the grand ballroom together, Devon leading me confidently through the throng of guests. He nodded at acquaintances but never paused until we reached the stage. To my astonishment, he guided me up the steps alongside him, positioning us before the gathered guests.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” Devon’s voice resonated effortlessly across the room, commanding attention. “I’d like to introduce you all to the new director of Gray Enterprises—Evelyn Gray.”

A wave of shocked murmurs rippled through the crowd. I stood frozen beside Devon, utterly unprepared for this public declaration.

“Hall Enterprises will be partnering with Gray Enterprises on a new development project,” Devon continued, seemingly oblivious to the stir he had created.

As we descended from the stage, Lily rushed over, grabbing my arm with wide-eyed excitement. “Oh my God! You’re a director at Gray Enterprises? You never told me that!”

I managed a nervous smile, my mind racing. “It’s a recent development. I was planning to tell you.”

Jack appeared beside Lily, grinning broadly. “I thought Devon was going to announce you two were dating or something.”

Lily linked her arm through mine, her curiosity palpable. “So what exactly is going on between you and my uncle?”

Heat flooded my cheeks, and I struggled to find the words as the vibrant party continued around us.