Page 118 of A Sunwoven Ascent

You will know soon enough.

Evelyne exhaled slowly, then turned back to her sister, who still seemed lost in thought.

“Come,” she said gently. “Why don’t we find something suitable for Heidara to wear to the ball?”

Aurelia blinked, as though pulled from some distant place, then gave a small nod.

“Yes… yes, that would be best.”

Together, they turned and left the mess behind.

Chapter 49

Kaldrek paused at the entrance to Relics and Refinements, studying the narrow doorway before stepping inside. Evelyne had mentioned the shop belonged to Charise Hallowell, and at first glance, it reminded him of Selene’s shop back in Cindermoor—quiet, cluttered, filled with objects that seemed to hum faintly with unseen purpose. The familiarity settled something in him, if only slightly.

This shop, however, was smaller. Much smaller.

His shoulders nearly brushed the frame as he stepped through, the bell above the door chiming sharply. He flinched. What an odd contraption to announce one’s arrival with such enthusiasm.

Behind the counter stood a middle-aged woman with dark hair threaded lightly with silver. She looked up at once, her expression warming.

“Lady Evelyne Duskwood,” she said with a gentle smile. “What a pleasure it is to see you again. You appear well.”

Evelyne returned the smile easily. “Hello, Charise. I must say the feeling is mutual. Though the last time we met, circumstances were rather chaotic. I cannot say things have settled much since, only changed.”

“Yes,” Charise replied. “I imagine becoming a wolf does tend to complicate matters.”

Evelyne seemed to hesitate. “You are aware?”

“Of course, dear,” Charise said simply. “I suspected you would share the same fate as your sister. Aurelia visited me shortly after her first transition. She was… understandably shaken.”

Evelyne turned slightly, surprise flickering across her face.

“How is she now?” Charise asked.

“Much improved,” Evelyne replied. Then, with a small gesture, she beckoned Kaldrek forward. “Charise, I would like to introduce you to Kaldrek.” She looked into his eyes. “My mate.”

The word settled warmly in his chest.

Mate.

It was more than a title. More than something spoken aloud for others to understand. It was something deeper, a binding. And though he knew Evelyne was still finding her footing with it, hearing her say it aloud stirred something fierce and certain within him.

“Congratulations to you both,” Charise said warmly. “It is a bond most sacred among wolves. I am truly glad for you.”

“Thank you,” Kaldrek said with a small nod.

Charise stepped out from behind the counter then, her attention shifting fully to him. She studied him closely. A little too closely for comfort. But he knew why.

“Not just a wolf,” she said quietly. “Are you?”

Kaldrek knew she could sense it. He had felt her magic the moment he entered the room. It was subtle, but present, and she, it seemed, had sensed his just as quickly.

“Your blood,” Charise continued, narrowing her eyes slightly. “There is something familiar about it. How is that possible?”

“Charise,” Evelyne said gently, “perhaps we might sit?”

Charise seemed to catch herself, stepping back slightly. “Yes, of course. Please.” She moved toward a small seating area near the shelves. “I shall prepare some tea—”