Rise of the Banished She-Wolf (Evelyn) novel Chapter 71

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

**Chapter 71**

**Devon**

Evelyn stepped out of the elevator, her presence illuminating the otherwise mundane office environment. “I thought you had meetings scheduled all day,” she remarked, a hint of surprise lacing her tone.

A smile crept onto my face, unable to resist the warmth that her visit brought. “You’re here, aren’t you? Of course, I want to show you around myself.” I lightly brushed my fingers against her arm, a fleeting touch that sent a thrill through me, relishing the brief connection.

As we strolled through the main office area, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. The usual hum of activity faded into a profound silence, as if the very air had thickened with curiosity. Employees, who moments before had been engrossed in their tasks, suddenly seemed to undergo a collective transformation, their eyes glued to their computer screens, yet stealing glances in our direction when they thought we wouldn’t notice.

“They’re all wondering who you are,” I whispered conspiratorially, leaning in closer to her ear, relishing the way her breath hitched slightly at my proximity.

We navigated our way to my private elevator located at the far end of the floor. With a swift motion, I swiped my key card and gestured for her to step inside. “This elevator goes directly to the top floor,” I informed her, excitement bubbling beneath the surface.

When the doors opened once more, I couldn’t help but observe the transformation in Evelyn’s expression as she stepped into my world. Her eyes widened, taking in the opulence of the penthouse office that was entirely mine. The space was a masterpiece, with floor-to-ceiling windows that framed a breathtaking view of Seattle’s skyline, the city sprawling beneath us like a living tapestry. I had meticulously designed every inch: a formal office with a grand desk, a cozy relaxation area adorned with plush couches, a luxurious bedroom suite, a state-of-the-art gym that was visible through elegant glass partitions, and a fully stocked kitchen that gleamed invitingly.

“You don’t actually live here, do you?” she asked, her surprise evident as she surveyed the impressive surroundings.

I shrugged nonchalantly, moving toward the kitchen area. “About half the month, yes. Would you like some coffee?”

She nodded, still captivated by the sheer size and luxury of the space. “Being an Alpha is demanding enough. Running a major corporation on top of that… it can’t be easy.”

I returned with two steaming mugs, handing one to her and playfully ruffling her hair as I did so. The silky strands slipped through my fingers like water. “That’s precisely why having you around is such a welcome distraction.”

Her cheeks flushed a soft pink at my touch, and she quickly moved toward the seating area, sinking into the embrace of my leather couch, which seemed to cradle her small frame perfectly.

I joined her, placing my coffee on the glass table with a soft clink. “So, what did you think of Professor Robert’s assessment?” I asked, genuinely interested in her thoughts.

“He was incredibly helpful,” she replied, her eyes brightening with enthusiasm. “The restoration will be challenging, but he believes we can preserve most of the original structure.”

A thought struck me, and I couldn’t resist suggesting, “You could move in there once it’s complete. Though I must admit, it would be quite a commute to the city.”

She glanced around my penthouse, her expression thoughtful. “This place is impressive, but it feels… empty. You should really consider moving back to your apartment at Moonlight Bay. My place will be ready soon too—we’d be neighbors.”

I shifted closer on the couch, allowing my thigh to brush against hers, feeling an electric charge in the air. “Living alone at Moonlight Bay isn’t much different from living alone here,” I countered, my gaze locked onto hers.

She turned to face me, her demeanor suddenly animated. “It would be so much better than this! At least there—”

I couldn’t hold myself back any longer. Leaning in, I closed the distance between us, my face mere inches from hers. I could sense the change in her breathing, a quickening pulse visible at the base of her throat, and I knew my scent would be intoxicating to her.

“What I need is you by my side,” I murmured, my voice dropping to a husky whisper, heavy with longing.

I moved closer still, gently coaxing her to lean back until she was nearly lying on the couch, my body hovering above her. Her breath caught in her throat as I lowered my head, my lips tantalizingly close to hers. She closed her eyes, waiting, anticipation hanging thick in the air.

I paused, studying her expression. The trust in her gesture made my wolf howl with satisfaction, but I needed her to understand the depth of my desire.

“Where is she?” he demanded, his nose wrinkling as he sniffed the air. “I can smell her. That white wolf was here.”

I set my pen down, leaning back in my chair with a calm demeanor. “She left hours ago.”

Richard struck my desk with his wolf-headed cane, the sound echoing ominously in the quiet room. “And you let her leave alone? At this rate, you have no hope of making her your mate.”

“I’m taking it slowly,” I replied, my voice steady. “She’s just beginning to accept her wolf nature again. I won’t rush her.”

Richard scoffed, shaking his head in disbelief, before turning and walking out, leaving me to ponder his words.

Not long after, Jason entered, carrying a folder that looked heavy with importance. “Sir, Professor Robert sent the budget for the restoration project. It’s estimated at a hundred million dollars.”

I waved my hand dismissively, my mind already racing ahead. “Money won’t be an issue—we’re here to support her if needed.”

Jason nodded, then continued, “Dr. Anderson also called. The Moonlight organization is willing to share their lab for the third testing phase, but they won’t disclose the location.”

My interest piqued immediately. “Tell Anderson to add me to the research team. I want to be involved in this project personally.”

“Mr. Hall,” Jason said, clearly surprised by my sudden eagerness. “Are you sure you want direct involvement with this research?”

My expression hardened, determination coursing through me. “Absolutely certain.”