Chapter 80: These Days Have Felt Like an Eternity
Evelyn’s POV
Morning sunlight bathed the castle’s sandstone walls in a golden glow as Sebastian pulled up to the entrance. The structure merged
seamlessly with the mountain, like it had grown naturally from the rock face.
The entrance featured massive oak doors carved with wolf totems, flanked by gleaming silver ornaments. Above stretched a stone viewing platform overlooking the valley, while the building itself extended symmetrically on both sides, rising at least five stories with spires
reaching even higher.
“This way, Miss Evelyn,” Sebastian gestured toward the entrance. “The Prince has been waiting. He’s hoping to show you around himself.”
I snapped out of my daze, suddenly aware I’d been gawking like I’d never seen a fancy building before.
“I thought Alistair would be training with the triplets today,” I said, following Sebastian.
He pushed open one of the heavy doors. “The Prince received special permission to attend to other responsibilities. Royal schedules tend
to be… flexible.”
I’d barely stepped into the entrance hall when a familiar figure bolted toward me.
“Finally!” Alistair pulled me into a tight hug. “These days have felt like an eternity! They wouldn’t let us visit during your recovery – not
even a phone call!”
When he released me, his amber eyes scanned me from head to toe, clearly checking for damage.
“I’m fine, really,” I patted his arm awkwardly. “Dr. Diana and Dr. Harrison took great care of me. Everything’s healed, and I’ve even been
cleared for full training.”
Without responding, Alistair grabbed my wrist and pulled me through the magnificent hall. We zipped past corridors lined with ancient statues, up a double spiral staircase to a balcony, then through a dimmer hallway.
We wound through countless ornate rooms and corridors, moving up and down through the maze-like castle until we reached a quiet corner with stained glass windows.
Suddenly, Alistair spun to face me, gripping my shoulders. “Who hurt you? We need the truth!”
“Excuse me?” I pulled away, taking a step back. “Since when do you use that commanding tone? You sound just like Magnus. Guess hanging around those guys has rubbed off on you ordering people around like they own them.”
I turned toward the window, crossing my arms against the sudden chill I felt.
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Chapter 80: These Days Have Felt Like an Eternity
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‘I’m sorry,” Alistair’s voice softened. “I’ve been worried sick. They only told us you were alive everything else was classified. You have no idea how excited I was when I heard you’d be visiting. Magnus nearly stormed the training center looking for you, and Orion was
“Let me guess, your prince card got you special access?” I cut in.
Alistair moved in front of me, shrugging. “It has its perks. But honestly, I’m just glad you’re here and that you agreed to help me out.” His tone grew sincere. “Those scheming elders are terrifying – always trying to match me with ‘suitable’ mates like I’m a prized stallion.”
“So I’m your human shield tonight?” I asked, deliberately changing the subject. “Anyone I should watch out for?”
“Too many to count,” he sighed. “The worst are the elders’ relatives.” Seeing my raised eyebrow, he quickly added, “None with actual skills – just decorative pieces. They’ve never had real training, but they’re experts at looking pretty.”
“Their greatest talent is posing beside me,” Alistair said with a grimace. “Sure, they know all the proper etiquette, but that stuff is mind-
numbing. Worse, they can’t hold a conversation to save their lives – another reason I need your help.”
We continued down the corridor, passing ancient weapons and armor displays.
“You can protect yourself without making a scene, and you can handle those girls who’ll try their ‘social attacks’ on me.” He rolled his eyes
dramatically. “Plus, you can actually talk to Alphas and Lunas as an equal, not just nod and smile. Most importantly – you’re a real friend.
Having you there will make tonight bearable.
We stopped at double doors carved with moons and stars.
“My mother’s reception room,” Alistair said, giving me a quick peck on the cheek. “Thanks, Evie. You’re a lifesaver.”
He’d barely knocked when the door swung open. Warm arms enveloped me, along with a familiar floral scent.
“My little warrior!” Luna Selena’s voice rang with genuine joy.
“Good to see you too,” I smiled.
“My dear,” she pulled back, holding my face in her hands. “I’ve been so worried. Nathan insisted that special attention might actually hurt
your progress. It’s been torture, especially with Taric and Conrad being so tight-lipped about your training. I’m not sure if it was my
husband creating distance or those warriors being sticklers for protocol.”
She paced around the room, her hands animating her words. I’d never seen her this relaxed before, and my surprise must have shown.
“Don’t look so shocked,” she laughed. “In private, I don’t have to be the perfect Luna Queen the elders expect. No need for the whole
‘model royalty’ act. Her fingers made air quotes, making her seem surprisingly normal.
‘Seems like tonight will be more complicated than I thought,” I half-joked. “Alistair mentioned I’ll basically be his shield against potential
mates. Will I have a target on my back?”
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Chapter 80: These Days Have Felt Like an Eternity
“I’m afraid so, she chuckled.
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