The Lightning Wolf Chronicles (Evelyn and Nadia) novel Chapter 127

Chapter 127: You Already Have Someone in Mind?

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Evelyn’s POV

“Nothing fancy planned. Nadia replied, sounding slightly disappointed. “Milo set up some surprises, and we’re having dinner with my parents tonight. But seriously, Evie, his concerns aren’t completely off-base. I’m not saying rush back Polaris, just… be extra careful now that you’ve got these leads.”

I handed the phone to Aria with a heavy sigh and grabbed my training clothes from the storage box. Great. Even Nadia was taking their side now. I hadn’t

left the pack to run back at the first whiff of danger.

In the changing area, I quickly switched into a lightweight tank and shorts, pulling training pants over them. As I tied my hair back, several annoying strands escaped and brushed against my face. I really needed a trim I only remembered this when I was trying to focus.

–

When I returned, Aria had finished the call and held up a finger, signaling me to wait while she changed. After she returned fully geared up, we silently

headed to the training area.

The space was nearly empty this early Friday morning. Perfect. In my current mood, I couldn’t manage polite small talk anyway. I just wanted an intense sparring session to replace mental frustration with muscle burn. Aria watched me understanding flashing in her eyes whenever I ramped up my attack

intensity.

As we finished our final combat set, a voice broke my concentration.

“Morning. Looks like we missed prime training time.”

I spun around, my damp ponytail slapping against my neck.

Robert stood there but stopped when he caught my expression. “Though seeing you now, maybe it’s good we didn’t join in.” His lips quirked into an amused

smile.

Aria chuckled softly, and I rolled my eyes but managed a small smile. At least I knew where to direct my actual anger, and it wasn’t at him.

“You probably wouldn’t last five minutes anyway,” I shot back. “You were already winded during last night’s run, and this takes way more stamina.”

I should get ready for class, Aria said through our mind link.

He’s right here – good chance to gather intel. I extended our mental link to Taric and Conrad. I need some alone time. Can one of you follow her and one stay as

backup?

At least you remember you need backup. Aria shook her head slightly, but understanding showed in her eyes.

‘I’m heading out, I told her. She squeezed my shoulder before walking past Robe.

I’ll wait in the car. Taric will monitor Evelyn, Conrad replied evenly. Don’t let her d anything stupid. She’s emotionally raw right now. And make her eat something after no sleep and an hour of training, she’ll crash hard.

Robert studied me. “Want to talk about that call?’

‘Not really, I admitted. “Talking about it will just piss me off more. I’d rather ke

exercising. Wanna spar? I suddenly realized how self-centered that

sounded. ‘Wait, you probably had your own plans. You didn’t come here just to be my punching bag.”

“Come sit,’ he said, gently gripping my arm and guiding me to the side. I reluctaly followed but quickly pulled away. “What happened? Tell me.”

“I’m completely gross right now,” I stepped back, uncomfortable with how close stood. “Not exactly presentation-ready.”

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09:52 Mon, Jan 12

Chapter 127: You Already Have Someone in Mind?

“Actually, he smiled, the more real you are, the more interesting you become. Stange, isn’t it?”

“Wouldn’t know,’ I mumbled, feeling awkward. “This is all new territory. And seriously, I need a shower. I’m a mess.”

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“You’re showing your most authentic self,” he said meaningfully. “Does this place have somewhere to clean up? Or do we need to head back to your place?”

‘Didn’t bring anything,’ I sighed truthfully. “Left in a hurry, didn’t think ahead, but I don’t want to go back yet.”

“How about this?’ he offered. “I haven’t started training, so I’m still fresh, and I bought extra stuff. You can borrow my things, and then we definitely need

to get you some food, or your friend will probably hunt me down.”

“You really don’t mind?” I asked, surprised. “Delaying your workout, lending me your stuff?”

“You’re really not used to basic courtesy, are you?” His smile widened as he moved closer, making this low rumbling sound that was oddly reassuring.

I took a deep breath. “Honestly… do you know how big our age gap is? That could be a problem.”

Evelyn! Don’t reveal your real age! Taric’s warning sliced through my mind.

I need to explain why I’m keeping distance; he keeps trying to close in. Relax, we need info, and I need to seem somewhat vulnerable to get him talking.

Be careful. Keep the link open.

Got it.

“If you don’t mind, I’ll be quick,” I said, noticing a small smile playing on his lips

“What’s to mind? Come on.’ He led me to his backpack, handing me the entire bag without hesitation, as if completely unconcerned about what I might find. His hand hovered near my back the whole way until he walked me to the changing area entrance.

I showered quickly, using his toiletries. My training pants were still relatively dry but my underwear was soaked through, so I had to go without. Thankfully,

his bag had a comb, letting me somewhat tame my hair.

Less than ten minutes later, I emerged from the changing room. Robert was leaning against the wall, scrolling through his phone, and looked up surprised.

‘Done already?”

“Yep. When I say ten minutes, I mean ten minutes.”

‘Most girls take at least an hour,’ he laughed.

‘Never been that type,’ I shrugged. ‘If you ever see me all dressed up, it’s definitely because my friends forced me into it.”

“That would be something to see,’ he smiled, taking back his bag. “Can I hold you hand? Or is that outside your comfort zone?”

‘I’m not really sure what this is,” I admitted.

“Then why not try?” He gently took my hand, leading me away from the training rea along a stone path toward a quiet spot at the forest’s edge.

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