**Where Soft Light Shines Darkness Fades From Tired Hearts by Evan Holt Crane**
**Chapter 52**
As the dawn’s first light spilled into the world, painting the sky with hues of soft gold and lavender, Cassian felt a mix of urgency and determination. He quickly sent a message to Trista, his fingers flying over the screen, before he slid into his car and drove back toward Ironthorn. The road ahead was familiar, yet the weight of the day ahead pressed heavily on his shoulders.
Upon his arrival, Howard wasted no time. He summoned an omega to gather the entire pack in the living room, a command that echoed with authority. Cassian entered the room, his presence commanding attention. He approached the table and laid down the Werewolf Bloodline Certification with care, the parchment’s stark black surface contrasting sharply against the polished wood. The Royal wolf-head stamp, a deep crimson, seemed to pulse with life under the bright light, a testament to the legacy it represented.
“Regarding Algernon,” Cassian began, his voice steady but low, resonating with a seriousness that filled the room. “His bloodline is undeniably linked to mine. Should there still be any doubt in your minds, I am prepared to conduct another comparison right here, in front of all of you.”
Beneath his stern demeanor, he felt the slow, rhythmic breathing of his wolf, a silent companion that understood the turmoil of his heart. Even now, as he spoke, he was aware that his words only skimmed the surface of the truth.
Alaina’s hands trembled as she picked up the Bloodline Certification, her eyes wide with disbelief. With just one glance, she felt as if the ground beneath her was shifting. The royal stamp seemed to expand, a vivid drop of blood reflected in her gaze, threatening to pull her under.
Wynn, sensing her distress, quickly moved to support her, wrapping an arm around her elbow and guiding her back to the safety of the sofa. The Ironthorn Pack’s crest subtly appeared in the intricate wood grain of the coffee table, a reminder of their heritage and the weight of their legacy.
Cassian stood firm by the table, his eyes locked on Howard, who was seated across from him.
His expression was one of fierce determination. “Grandpa, Dad, this certification confirms that the child possesses my bloodline. If you dare to harm him or Samantha in any way, I will not hesitate to register the child’s guardianship under my name in the Royal Records and the Elder Council Stone Circle. I will bring them back to Ironthorn and publicly acknowledge our bond, granting them official status.”
Wilmot’s face paled, a sickly green hue washing over him as he struggled to contain his anger. “And what of Trista? Don’t forget, you haven’t severed the mating contract. Can you imagine the scandal? An Alpha and his Luna having a child outside their bond? It would be a disaster!”
Cassian’s jaw clenched, the tension palpable in the air. “I will ensure they remain outside Ironthorn’s territory. Algernon’s identity will be kept private. I have no intention of terminating my mating contract with Trista.”
Howard slowly rose to his feet, leaning heavily on his cane, the handle intricately carved with the old Alpha’s wolf totem, a symbol of their lineage. “Even if I cease my pursuit, do you truly believe Trista will let them go without a fight?”
Cassian met his grandfather’s gaze with unwavering confidence. “She has a kind heart. She will choose what is best for the child.”
Howard studied him, his eyes narrowing as he weighed Cassian’s words. After what felt like an eternity, he relented, his voice heavy with resignation. “Since the child is of Ironthorn’s bloodline, you may provide them with financial and living support to ensure their well-being. However, you are strictly prohibited from granting them public status or acknowledging their connection to Ironthorn.”
Cassian nodded, a sense of relief washing over him, but he was careful to add, “On the condition that you will not take any measures against them. No harassment, no interference.”
Howard’s voice turned sharp, a final warning hanging in the air. “If you can guarantee that Trista won’t escalate this matter publicly or reject you outright, I will not interfere further.”
The atmosphere in the living room grew thick with tension, each member of the pack holding their breath as Cassian secured this fragile agreement. With a sense of accomplishment, he withdrew his aura, feeling the weight of the room lift slightly as he turned to leave.


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