The Lightning Wolf Chronicles (Evelyn and Nadia) novel Chapter 116

Chapter 116: Your Progress Isn’t Bad Either

Evelyn’s POV

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“Focus!” Conrad’s command cut through the cold air.

I closed my eyes, breathing deeply as I visualized my clothes merging with my skin. The mark’s energy pulsed through my veins as I directed it to envelop

everything I wore.

“When shifting, think of your clothes as part of yourself, Conrad instructed from the safe house yard. “The mark gives you this ability, but your mind

controls it.

My wolf stirred eagerly. I released the energy, bracing for the familiar bone-shifting pain.

workout clothes remained perfectly intact beneath my fur.

came, but milder than before. When I landed on four paws, my

We did it! my wolf celebrated.

Next to me, Aria began her attempt. Her transformation looked more intense, muscles visibly contorting. She dropped to the ground as a powerful brown

wolf, but while her top survived, her pants had shredded to ribbons.

Conrad immediately turned away. “This is exactly why we practice. Aria, stay shifted while I grab some replacement clothes.”

I made a chuffing sound that was definitely wolf laughter.

Quit it. Aria grumbled through our mental link. Last time I shifted back, Conrad go an eyeful. Talk about mortifying.

At least you’re getting better, I replied. And Conrad can barely look at you now. Probably the most awkward training he’s ever done.

Conrad returned with clothes for Aria, deliberately looking elsewhere. I’ll turn around. Let me know when you’re done.”

I focused on my own shift back, picturing my human form. The transformation floved more smoothly than ever, and I found myself fully clothed like I’d

never changed at all.

‘It worked perfectly! I couldn’t hide my excitement.

Aria wasn’t as lucky. After returning to human form, she quickly pulled on the pants Conrad had brought.

‘So unfair, she muttered. ‘I concentrated just as hard as you did.

“Might be because she’s smaller, Conrad suggested, turning back to face us. ‘Less surface area to manage. But you’re improving too, Aria. Way better than

last week.”

We trained for several more hours, practicing rapid shifts until exhaustion forces inside.

“Good work, Conrad said, throwing together lunch. “Keep this up and you’ll be ready when the blizzard breaks. Two more weeks, tops.”

“God, I hope so,” Aria sighed, collapsing into a chair. ‘I miss actual people and clization. The training center never looked so good.”

“Missing those basketball guys already?” I teased.

She tossed a piece of bread at my head. ‘Oh, shut up. Not everyone hides from sial interaction like you.” Her expression suddenly turned serious. Actually, I’ve been wondering why are you so determined to wait for your mate?”

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09:49 Mon, Jan 12 GB

Chapter 116: Your Progress Isn’t Bad Either

I nearly choked. “What?”

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“Come on,” she leaned back. “You never check out guys, even the hot ones. Whenever I mention dating someone, you get this weird look. That’s not typical

teenage behavior, Evie.”

I set down my water, considering how to explain something I barely understood myself.

“I don’t know exactly,” I admitted. “I get what attraction is – I’ve seen enough couples. But when I imagine being with someone who isn’t my mate, my whole

body just… rejects the idea.”

“But you’ve never even experienced a mate bond,” Aria countered. “How do you know what you’re waiting for is worth it?”

“Just instinct, I guess. Like my body knows something my mind doesn’t yet.”

“Your wolf might have recognized your mate already,” Conrad said, surprising us both.

We turned toward him.

‘It happens sometimes,” he continued, flipping eggs at the stove. A wolf can identify a destined mate before the human part becomes aware. Creates a

natural aversion to other potential partners.”

“But I’m only sixteen, I protested. “The Moon Goddess says no finding mates before eighteen.”

“The rules say you can’t confirm and mark a mate bond before eighteen, Conrad orrected. ‘Doesn’t mean you can’t meet them earlier.”

Aria slapped the table excitedly. “That’s it! You’ve already met your mate! That’s why you’re not interested in anyone else!”

My cheeks burned. “That’s ridiculous. Even if it were true, who would it be? Everyone I know is practically family.”

‘Doesn’t always feel like romance at first,” Conrad said, sliding plates of scrambled eggs and bacon in front of us. “Sometimes it’s just comfort or security

rather than attraction.”

Magnus, Lucian, and Orion instantly flashed through my mind. I always felt safes when they were around. But that was just protective older brother energy… right?

‘A mate bond is something else though, Aria said, her voice softening. “My parents have this connection where they barely need words. It’s like they share a

brain.”

‘It’s weird that you’re so protective of mate bonds but still date around,” I pointed out, grateful to shift focus.

“That’s not contradictory!” she defended. ‘I’ll find my mate eventually, but until then, I want experience. I don’t want to disappoint him, especially if he’s

been with other people.’

“That’s your call,” I shrugged. “I just feel like… when I finally find my mate, I war to be completely his. No baggage, no comparisons.”

Conrad cleared his throat. Both approaches are valid. What matters is following our own instincts.”

We ate quietly for a moment before Aria brightened.

“Speaking of social skills – ready for tomorrow’s party? The basketball team one?

Are we really going?’ My stomach knotted. I’ve never been to a party like that.”

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Chapter 116: Your Progress Isn’t Bad Either

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“Exactly why we have to go!” Aria practically bounced in her seat. Perfect chance to gather intel while letting you experience normal teenage stuff. You can’t live in combat mode forever.”

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