Chapter 114 Whispers Across the City

Chapter 114 Whispers Across the City

Stephanie's POV

I nearly choked on my wine, the rich taste turning sharp as it caught in my throat. A cough slipped out before I could stop it.

Frederick's hand found my back, steady and reassuring. 

"What's with the sudden question?" I asked.

Anthony leaned back in his chair, a sly smile tugging at his mouth. "Just curious," he said. "Chloe's been in my ear nonstop, saying you and Karon have been trending all over the feeds."

"I didn't believe her at first," he continued, shaking his head with theatrical disbelief. "Then I checked... and wow, the whole city's talking."

The other elders perked up instantly.

"Karon?" Ivan arched a brow. "That boy's got good taste."

William chuckled, the sound warm but edged with meaning. "If his grandfather were still alive, he'd be over the moon."

Heat crept up my neck. "We're just friends."

"Friends?" Anthony teased, his tone dripping with amusement. "Friends don't give out Moon Goddess crests.

"Friends don't send a helicopter to fetch a witch just to bless you.

"Friends don't dance with you twice at a graduation celebration."

I had no comeback. My silence was answer enough.

Frederick's laugh cut through the teasing. "Alright, enough. Let the young ones figure out their own mess."

He glanced at me, his gaze softer now. "Still... Karon's a good man, Stephanie. If you like him, you have my full support."

I kept my eyes on my steak, slicing through the tender meat as if it could anchor me, but my mind was a storm.

After dinner, Frederick suggested tea, but I checked the time. Nearly nine.

"Grandfather, I have to be at Headquarters tomorrow," I said. "Better not tonight."

"Fair enough." He nodded. "Rest up."

Turning to the others, he added, "I'll take my granddaughter home."

"Of course," Ivan said with a grin. "A young lady needs her rest."

I said my goodbyes and stepped out of the private room. Anthony caught up to me in the hallway.

"Stephanie," he called, "do me a favor."

"What kind of favor?"

"Get Chloe to sleep earlier," he said, exasperation in his voice. "She's been sleeping past noon every day, and nothing I say gets through."

I couldn't help but laugh. "I'll try."

"Thanks," he said, sounding relieved.

We headed downstairs. The car was already waiting by the door. Before getting in, I glanced back at the small building, a warmth settling in my chest.

Tonight, I'd met the most powerful figures in Pack Headquarters. And because of Frederick, every one of them was willing to stand behind me.

It felt... incredible.

The car rolled out of the old street. Frederick watched me with that knowing smile. "You did well tonight."

"Thank you."

"No need to thank me," he said. "These connections are yours to claim. When you hit a wall at Headquarters, you can call on them. Just remember—debts have to be repaid."

I nodded. "I understand."

"Good." His satisfaction was obvious.

We reached the seaside apartment quickly. Amanda and Isabelle walked me to the door.

"Rest well," Amanda said. "Call me if you need anything tomorrow."

"Alright."

Frederick added, "I've arranged a driver for you. He'll pick you up in the morning."

"That's not necessary..."

"It is," he said firmly. "You're new to Headquarters, and I won't have you wandering alone."

There was no winning against him. "Thank you, then."

"Good girl."

I watched them leave before stepping inside. The door clicked shut, and I leaned against it, letting out a long breath.

Tonight had been... overwhelming.

Amanda had handed me a two-hundred-million-dollar apartment. Frederick had introduced me to the most influential people in Pack Headquarters. And Anthony—Anthony was Chloe's father.

I crossed to the floor-to-ceiling windows. Outside, the ocean stretched dark and endless, the moonlight spilling silver across the waves. Far off, the city glowed, alive with lights.

My phone buzzed. A message from Karon lit the screen.

Karon: [Where are you?]

I hesitated, then typed back: [I'm at Frederick's apartment.]

Karon: [Address.]

I sent it. Seconds later, another message appeared.

Karon: [See you tomorrow.]

A smile tugged at my lips before I realized it.