Chapter 0471

"I'll pick you up and we'll go together." I say, watching as Evander shifts back into Gregory's human form.

The moment the transformation completes, Gregory stands tall, hands planted firmly on his hips. "I'm not hiding from your parents, Ivy. We're both adults - you'll be eighteen soon. I have no issue speaking to them directly, but I refuse to sneak around like some hormone-driven pup. They should be honored that I'm pursuing their daughter."

Through our mind link while still in Valeria's wolf form, I tease, "Pretty sure Dad's not worried about the dating part. It's what you might try after the date that concerns him." Taking full advantage of my current form, I let my gaze roam over Gregory's sculpted physique - the broad shoulders tapering to that perfect V at his waist, the defined muscles that make my pulse quicken.

"Shift back so we can talk properly," Gregory demands. "I'm serious about this, Ivy. No sneaking, no hiding. I want everyone to know I'm courting you. You deserve to be shown off, not tucked away like some dirty secret."

Returning to human form, I mirror his stance, hands on my hips. "That's just it, Gregory. There is no 'us'. You made it clear you're searching for your mate, and I'm not old enough to find mine yet. Maybe Dad's right - we should cancel Sunday."

A deep growl rumbles from his chest as he grabs my arms, leaning down to meet my eyes. "No, Ivy. Why won't you believe I want more than just sex from you?"

"Maybe because that's all you've ever wanted from any female," I snap, instantly regretting the hurt that flashes across his face. Before I can make it worse, I pull away. "I need to go."

Gathering my clothes, I glance back to see him standing at the tree line, watching me intently. I enter the house without another word, shutting the door firmly behind me.

Later that evening while doing homework, the ringing phone interrupts my thoughts. Dad's tone shifts dramatically when he answers, making me pause to listen.

"Of course, Alpha Alistair." A tense silence follows.

"I meant no disrespect." More silence.

"No, I wouldn't interfere." Another pause.

"Yes, Alpha." The receiver clicks loudly.

Moments later, heavy footsteps approach my door. The knock is perfunctory before Dad barges in. "When exactly were you planning to tell me about your date with Gregory Sinclair?" he snarls.

"What?"

"That was Alpha Alistair. Apparently Gregory went straight to him, claiming I was preventing your date. Now he's demanding to know why I think his Guardian isn't good enough for my daughter." Dad's voice rises with each word. "So I'll ask again - when were you going to tell me?"

"Gregory did ask me out," I admit. "Valeria and I ran into Evander during training tonight. He helped us, then walked us home. I mentioned you didn't approve, but I never thought he'd go to Alpha Alistair about it."

"Well he did," Dad shouts, face reddening. "So congratulations - you're going out with Gregory whether I like it or not!" The door slams shut behind him with enough force to rattle the pictures on my wall.