Rise of the Banished She-Wolf (Evelyn) novel Chapter 62

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

The ambient sounds of laughter and chatter began to fade into the background, almost as if the world around us was slipping away into a distant memory. In that moment, Devon took my hand, intertwining his fingers with mine in a way that felt both reassuring and exhilarating. A delightful flutter coursed through my chest, igniting a spark of emotions I had long buried. The formalities of his introduction as the new director of Gray Enterprises had concluded, and now he was leading me away from the prying eyes and hushed whispers that danced around us like shadows.

“The tedious part is behind us,” he whispered, his breath warm against my ear, sending a delightful shiver down my spine. “Now, we can truly celebrate.”

I glanced back briefly, catching a glimpse of Lily, her face glowing with excitement as she hurried after us, Olivia trailing closely behind. Devon guided me toward the dock, where an impressive yacht awaited us—a sleek, modern beauty named “Moonchaser,” its name shimmering in elegant silver letters against the pristine white hull.

“Is this your yacht?” I asked, raising an eyebrow in disbelief, a mix of awe and surprise washing over me.

Devon’s lips curled into a playful smile, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “This beauty is strictly for leisure, not business,” he replied, his tone light and teasing, a hint of joy bubbling beneath the surface.

As we stepped aboard, the warmth of Devon’s hand sent electric tingles racing up my arm, awakening something within me that had been dormant for far too long. It was a feeling that resonated deep within my core, a flutter of recognition that stirred emotions I had thought long forgotten.

Once on board, Jason appeared, carrying several garment bags with an air of purpose. Devon took one look at Lily’s elegant dress and shook his head with a smirk. “You’re not going fishing in that, are you? You’ll scare away all the fish,” he teased, his voice light and playful, bringing laughter to our little group.

Lily’s eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. “Fishing? Yes! I was really hoping we’d do this!” she exclaimed, practically bouncing on her toes, her excitement infectious.

Jason handed us the bags with a nod, his expression professional. “Outdoor clothes, as requested, sir.”

We changed in separate cabins, slipping into high-quality yet comfortable attire—jeans, soft shirts, and light jackets that felt perfect for the occasion. When I emerged, I found Jack already on board, engaged in animated conversation with Devon.

“Knew I’d find you all here,” Jack said, flashing a grin that lit up his face. “Same routine every year. Devon’s practically raising his own daughter,” he added, nodding toward Lily, who was practically vibrating with excitement.

Devon’s gaze met mine, warm and intense, as he replied, “I spoil those I care about. What’s wrong with that?” His words wrapped around me like a comforting blanket, igniting a sense of belonging I hadn’t felt in ages.

Suddenly, his scent intensified, enveloping the air between us in a way that was almost intoxicating. My heightened senses picked it up immediately, and something primal within me responded to it. I looked away, feeling a blush creep up my cheeks, the heat radiating through me like a warm ember.

On the upper deck, Devon pulled Olivia aside for a private conversation while Lily eagerly dragged Jack and me toward the fishing spot. I couldn’t help but overhear snippets of their discussion.

“What if she surpasses you one day?” Olivia asked, her voice tinged with curiosity. “Her white wolf blood might be even rarer than your Alpha status.”

Devon’s reply was immediate and heartfelt. “That would be my honor. A pack needs the strongest leader, regardless of gender.” His words resonated within me, stirring a respect that transcended mere attraction and igniting a flicker of hope.

Meanwhile, Lily was challenging Jack, her competitive spirit shining through. “Think you can finally beat me this year?” she teased, a spark of determination lighting up her eyes.

“In your dreams,” Jack retorted, deftly rigging his fishing rod with practiced ease, a playful smirk on his face.

With a flick of her wrist, Lily cast her line, but her enthusiasm led to a mishap. The hook snagged Jack’s shirt, and his surprised yelp quickly morphed into panic as Lily instinctively jerked the rod, sending him tumbling over the railing and into the water.

Without a moment’s hesitation, I kicked off my shoes and dove in after him. The cold water hit me like a jolt, but I sliced through it with a speed that felt almost inhuman. Jack was thrashing about, and I could see blood mingling with the water—the hook had done more damage than just tearing his shirt.

I reached him just as Devon and Eric plunged into the water nearby. Devon’s eyes locked onto mine, wide with concern, and I could sense his fear—not for Jack, but for me. The seawater would mask my scent, making it impossible for him to track me if we got separated.

Together, we managed to pull Jack back to the yacht. As the crew helped lift him onto the deck, I quickly examined the wound. The fishing hook had pierced his chest, and I could smell something foul—silver particles from the water had entered the injury, a realization that sent a wave of dread crashing over me.

“He needs surgery,” I said urgently, my voice steady despite the rising panic inside me. “There’s silver in the wound. We have two hours before it spreads too far.”

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