Chapter 29
The response rame almost immediately: (Landking forward to it, sweetheart!
As I sorted through my clothes, strong arms suddenly wrapped areaind my waist from behind. I pumped, a started yelp eaping my throat.
Did you sleep well? Jace’s breath tickled my ear.
My heart raced, but not from fear. Better than I have in years, I admitted, hyper–aware of his closeneit
I wish I could stay, he said, his fingers tracing a gentle path down my arm. But I need to overies morning training
I turned to face him. “It’s okay. I’ll come watch later. I wanted to work on a song for Aurora’s birthday anyway?
“Would you help me plan her princess party? Jace asked, his expression hopeful.
Of course. I’d love to,‘ I said with a smile.
Twenty minutes later, we arrived at the training grounds. I settled on a wooden bench at the edge of the clearing, notebook open as I jotted down ideas for “Moon Princess Party.”
As training was winding down, I watched Scarlett sashay into the circle, pressing her body against face’s side. I’m available whenever you need me, Alpha,” she purred. She ran her fingers through her hair, arching her back slightly as she pressed closer. Her hand wandered boldly across his chest, lingering longer than necessary. She was practically throwing herself at him, not even trying to hide her intentions.
Something twisted inside me. I gripped my pen tighter, trying to ignore the jealousy burning through me. I shouldn’t care this much. What was I even hoping for? Yet I couldn’t stop the ache spreading through my chest or the heat rising to my face.
Jace’s eyes found mine across the training ground. I quickly looked down, pretending to be absorbed in my notes. I couldn’t bear for him to see what I was feeling.
He isn’t mine, I reminded myself. He can flirt with whoever he wants. The thought made my chest tighten uncomfortably.
I closed my notebook and shrugged off my hoodie, preparing to join the training session. Gabriel and Lucas appeared at the edge of the clearing, speaking with Jace and several Betas. A few unmated warriors noticed me and whistled appreciatively.
“Hey, I’m Jaspar.” A young warrior approached me. “Need a training partner?”
“Yes, thanks,” I replied with a smile, though I could feel someone watching me intently from across the field.
Our training session was both serious and enjoyable. Jaspar moved with grace and skill, treating me not as a fragile human but as a worthy opponent.
‘You’re Eliana’s brother?” I asked during a break, suddenly understanding his friendly demeanor.
When training ended, Jaspar extended his hand to help me up. I stumbled forward, colliding with his chest. We both laughed at my clumsiness.
A deep growl cut through our laughter.
Across the field, Jace stared at us, his face darkening with barely contained emotion. The presence of Phantom, his wolf spirit, made his anger almost palpable in the air around him.
I grabbed my bag and pulled on my hoodie, ready to make a quick exit. A warm hand caught my wrist before I could escape.
‘Come to my office after you shower?” Jace asked, his voice controlled but tense.
“I don’t think so,” I replied, avoiding his gaze. “I’m planning to go with Eliana to find Aurora’s birthday present. Besides…” I bit my lip, you seem busy.
“Aria, there’s nothing between me and Scarlett. His jaw tightened.
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Chapter 29
“Even if there was, it wouldn’t be my business, I whispered, feeling tears threatening to spill.
“Ria, look at me.” he said, almost pleading
I shook my head and pulled my hand away. “Sorry, I have to go. 1 turned and walked quickly away, not daring to look back at him:
C
