Chapter 386
Third Person’s POV
Finished
Trista patted Sayer’s back and motioned to the group. “You guys catch up. I’m taking Sayer to the buffet to grab a snack p>
The moment she turned, a server carrying a heavy, high–stacked tray hurried past.
Seeing the tray about to tip right onto her, Elias moved on pure reflex. He reached out, his long arm snaking around her waist, and with a smooth, practiced pivot, he pulled her securely into his chest.
It wasn’t until the gasps from the crowd died down that Trista realized she was pressed flush against Elias’s heart.
A few yards away, Cassian went rigid.
His reflexes had been just as fast, but the distance between them had become a canyon he couldn’t cross- Elias was already right there.
Watching the she–wolf who used to belong to him being shielded by another male made Cassian’s pupils constrict. His knuckles cracked as he balled his hands into fists.
The eyes of the crowd darted between the three of them, and the atmosphere turned incredibly awkward.
Elias stepped back with gentlemanly poise, giving a slight nod. “My apologies. That was a bit close p>
Trista steadied herself, her expression open and composed. “I’m the one who should be thanking you, Mr. Manwaring p>
Their exchange was polite, but the effortless chemistry between them was enough to make anyone jealous.
Rowena strolled up to Cassian’s side, her eyes following Trista and Elias as they walked away. Her voice carried a mocking edge. “It looks like the ‘territory‘ Alpha Cassian abandoned has a lot of powerful predators lining up to take over p>
Cassian lowered his gaze, suppressing the erratic energy in his blood. He didn’t even give her a look before turning and vanishing into the shadows.
Rowena watched him go, a playful, intrigued smirk playing on her lips.
At the Buffet, Zander, Fred, Wynn, and Penelope crowded around.
Penelope leaned in and whispered into Trista’s car, “Do you know where Isaiah lives? Like, his actual
address p>
The wild and rebellious Isaiah? Trista bit back a laugh and looked at Zander
Zander looked like he had a massive headache, rubbing his temples. “This girl has zero boundaries. You give her an inch and she’ll burn the whole neighborhood down. Don’t encourage her
Trista laughed. “I wouldn’t dare give out Alpha Isaiah’s address without his permission. But,” she added,
Chapter 386
looking at Penelope, “I can invite you over to my place p>
Penelope acted like a needy pup, shaking Trista’s arm. “You better mean it! No backing out p>
Finished
Watching Penelope and a group of girls her age run off giggling, a flicker of longing crossed Trista’s eyes.
Eighteen–the age when the soul is at its hottest, brave enough to stare down any set of fangs.
If Silverlight hadn’t collapsed, if she’d had brothers to protect her like that, maybe she wouldn’t have been left so vulnerable when Cassian tore her world apart.
After Penelope left, Fred started digging at Wynn. “See that? She sees a male she likes and she goes for it. What about you p>
Wynn looked genuinely confused. “What about me p>
Fred let out a long sigh. “You’re like a stone that hasn’t been cracked yet p>
As one of the smartest members of the pack’s younger generation, this was the first time Wynn had ever been told her brain wasn’t moving fast enough.
While the others were chatting, Trista headed upstairs to the restroom.
On her way out, she ran into Rowena, who was adjusting her sleek bob in the mirror.
Trista gave a polite nod, intending to walk past.
“Dr. Holmes, a word?” Rowena said, watching Trista’s reflection.
Trista stopped and turned. “Ms. Porter, I don’t believe we’re that well acquainted p>
“That’s fine. In this circle, it only takes a few encounters to become friends.” Rowena stepped forward. Her attitude was polite, but the sheer dominance of a high–tier Alpha made the air feel heavy.
‘Let’s get formal. I am the future Alpha of the Tundra Pack,” Rowena said, cutting straight to the point. And currently, I am at the top of Ironthorn’s list for a potential bond. There is a very high probability that I will be Cassian’s new mate p>
She spoke carefully, but the words “high probability” tasted like total confidence.
Trista remained calm, her politeness bordering on detached. “Congratulations p>
Rowena clearly didn’t expect that. Her brow arched. “You aren’t even curious? Not even a little hurt p>
Trista gave a slow, honest shake of her head.
Rowena studied her, a hint of genuine respect appearing in her eyes. “I see why Cassian was so set on bonding with you. You’ve got a rare kind of grit p>
Trista corrected her without emotion. “You’ve got it wrong. Ms. Porter. That mating had nothing to do with feelings. It was strictly a transaction where both sides got what they needed p>
Rowena wasn’t surprised. She made no secret of her intent to claim Cassian. “In this city, Cassian has the
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Chapter 386
Finished
strongest genes and the best pedigree. He’s got the brains and the iron fist–he is the perfect match for my standards. I don’t care who came before me. I only care about who’s left standing by his side at the end p>
Trista looked at the woman and realized she and Cassian were actually a perfect match.
Samantha never would have stood a chance if Cassian hadn’t been blinded by that “first love” hero complex.
Sara Lili
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.