Chapter 0046

I'm so mesmerized by the gifts that I don't notice my father entering. "Evelyn, training began half an hour ago."

My head snaps toward the clock. Shit. I'm late. "Dad, look what my secret admirer left for me."

I hold up the dress and jewelry. His eyebrows shoot up. "Planning to wear that tonight, sweetheart?"

"Obviously. Do you think these gems are real?" I examine the necklace closely.

He leans in, inspecting them. "Without a doubt."

"No fucking way, dad!"

"Language, Evelyn."

"Come on! Some guy just dropped serious cash on me for one night and I can't swear about it?"

Dad chuckles. "Take these upstairs and get to training. We'll discuss this later."

I rush to my room, then sprint to the training grounds.

The warriors give me hell for being late. Alpha Alistair makes me run laps before letting me wipe the floor with everyone. Good. I needed to burn off this nervous energy. When I finish demolishing his best fighters, I smirk at him. "Care for a rematch, Alpha?"

He shakes his head. "Not today, Evelyn. I may be getting old, but I'm not suicidal." Laughing, I head to the forest to change before going home.

I spend hours preparing - soaking in the tub, perfecting my makeup, styling my hair. Losing Mom young means I rarely miss having a mother...except at times like this. I can almost see her helping me get ready, speculating about my mystery man. The thought stings. I haven't visited her memorial in too long. I'll go this weekend.

I create a tousled French twist, using emerald hairpins that complement the earrings. Loose curls frame my face, softening the look.

Smoky plum eyeshadow, winged liner, and mascara accentuate my eyes. A touch of blush and glossy pink lips complete the makeup.

The dress fits perfectly. The jewelry transforms me. Strappy black heels add the final touch. The updo showcases the earrings, while the sweetheart neckline highlights the necklace. I never dress like this, but tonight? I feel like royalty.

Dad whistles when I descend the stairs. "Should I prepare to battle every unmated male tonight?"

"Dad!" I roll my eyes. "Sebastian AND my secret admirer will be there. I think we're covered."

"Great. Only two men to fight off then," he mutters.

I kiss his cheek. "Speaking of fighting people off...you clean up nicely. Might have to protect you from all those single women tonight."

He gives me that look - the one that says I've said something ridiculous. "Evelyn, my heart only ever had room for two women - you and your mother. Wolves mate for life. No one could ever compare to her."

I sigh. We've had this talk before. "Fine. Don't say I didn't warn you."

"Let's go. We're fashionably late already." He changes the subject. I climb into his specially modified van - equipped with hand controls and a ramp so he can drive independently.

The club looks incredible. Must have taken an army to decorate. Valet takes the van. I wait for Dad to join me, then take his offered arm.

"Ready?"

I exhale slowly. "Ready." We step inside together.