The Lightning Wolf Chronicles (Evelyn and Nadia) novel Chapter 58

Chapter 58: Ready to Take Us to the Mating Ball

Evelyn’s POV

Patrol duty went smoothly as usual. We reinforced surveillance along the coastline and isthmus without finding any signs of intrusion. Since that threatening package arrived, security had tightened – everyone entering or leaving our territory underwent strict inspection.

My brain worked overtime while running. Even as I focused on patrol, I couldn’t help analyzing our situation. This threat wasn’t random – it had a specific target and timing.

What’s got you so quiet? Thomas asked through our mind link.

Just thinking, I replied.

Care to share those thoughts?

I hesitated. Not sure they’re worth mentioning. Others have probably considered them already.

I wasn’t usually this guarded. Normally I’d share ideas freely with the guys, but with Thomas it felt different. He was an elder, not a peer.

Maybe he was just asking out of obligation.

You know you can talk to me, right? Thomas said gently. Or Griffin, Diana, even Luna. You’ve been keeping everyone at arm’s length, not just

those boys.

I took a deep breath, knowing he was right but too stubborn to admit it.

Let’s not talk about this. I doubt we’ll find anything significant before the triplets leave for training, I finally said. Even with increased patrols, we’re losing several top warriors when they go to the royal pack. Whoever’s behind this is probably waiting for that vulnerable moment.

Or maybe tonight’s Mating Ball is the target? Lots of outsiders will attend. I paused. But you’ve probably considered that and taken precautions,

or you wouldn’t hold the ball at all.

Unless you’re using the ball as bait, I realized suddenly. Though that would be incredibly risky.

I couldn’t help a dry laugh, which earned me a strange look from Chloe. She clearly felt excluded from our silent conversation.

“It’s not fair that you only share inside information with her because she’s Alpha’s pet who can shift and use mind links,’ she said bitterly.

‘I’m not anyone’s pet, and I started, but Thomas cut me off.

Chloe, even though you can’t respond, I can establish a mind link with both of you. Before criticizing others, you should think carefully.

Her eyes widened. She wasn’t used to being corrected so directly.

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18:21 Sat, Jan 10

Chapter 58: Ready to Take Us to the Mating Ball

Regarding your questions, Evelyn, Thomas said aloud, switching tactics, “we’re analyzing those possibilities. And no, we would never use anyone as bait without their knowledge.”

At the word “bait, Chloe looked terrified, completely misunderstanding our conversation.

“I’ll need your patrol assessment by the end of the day, Thomas continued, changing the subject. ‘Please be thorough, even with details

that seem minor.”

Compared to our first patrol together, Chloe had improved slightly. Still, the thought of enduring three more weeks with her wasn’t

exactly thrilling.

After signing out at the cabin, I headed to the training grounds where we held Saturday sessions for the cubs. I realized how much I

missed working with them, seeing their pure joy when mastering new skills.

I paused at the entrance, taking in the scene. The triplets and Nadia each led groups of children, teaching escape techniques. Everyone

looked completely engaged, faces bright with enthusiasm.

“Evie! Look, I did it!” A little girl ran toward me excitedly, grabbing my hand and pulling me into the training area. Her energy was infectious, reminding me of myself at that age. I laughed as she dragged me across the field, not paying attention to where we were going

until I crashed into someone.

Strong hands steadied me before I could fall. The fresh pine scent told me exactly who I’d bumped into – Magnus. Looking up into his eyes, I couldn’t help smiling. This was our second interaction since the argument, and the tension between us seemed to be easing.

I took a deep breath, his scent instantly calming me. A low laugh rumbled in his chest.

“I feel the same way, Evelyn,” he said softly, deliberately using my full name instead of his usual nickname.

Every part of me wanted him to use that familiar term of endearment, but I just nodded and cleared my throat.

“This little girl says she has something to show me,” I said, nodding toward the child still clutching my hand.

“I defeated Alpha Magnus!” She bounced excitedly. “It was amazing!”

I bit back a laugh. “Really? That’s impressive. Not many people can beat an Alpha.”

“Well, kiddo,” Magnus said, his lips curving upward, “looks like you’ve been challenged. And I’m not too happy about you holding Evelyn’s hand. I won’t go easy this time.”

The little girl’s eyes widened as she quickly let go. “I’m sorry, Alpha, I didn’t mean to. I just wanted to show Evie because she’s been teaching us, and…”

“He’s just messing with you,” I reassured her.

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Chapter 58: Ready to Take Us to the Mating Ball

I’m not sure if I was joking. If I can’t touch you, no one else should. Magnus’s voice filled my mind.

I nearly choked in surprise, but Magnus just winked and turned away. “Come on, little one. Let’s show Evelyn what you can do.”

As I gathered my wits to follow them, a strong arm draped across my shoulders.

My turn for a minute with you, Lucian sent through our link. Seeing Max touch you, then watching that kid hold your hand… I got a little

jealous too. He guided me toward the demonstration area, his tone playful despite the possessive message.

“Okay kiddo, show me what you’ve got,” Magnus challenged, crouching down.

The little girl bounced around like a mini boxer, then took her position. Magnus grabbed her but increased the resistance, making her

work harder to break free. On her third try, she finally escaped his grip.

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