Chapter 42: Shadows Over Sivir Academy

**Thelma Zane’s POV** “Of course, it’s true!” Aldrich reassured me, his hand brushing my forehead with a tenderness that melted my heart. “Nothing is more important than you, my dear. Even if my father summoned me to inherit the family title, I wouldn’t leave if you didn’t want me to.” I couldn’t help but smile at his words. The Moon Goddess must have taken her time when creating he-wolves like Aldrich, making them this irresistibly endearing. But deep down, I knew better. “Forget it,” I said, shaking my head and forcing myself to suppress the longing tugging at my heart. “I was just joking. This is your duty, Aldrich. I can’t be selfish and hold you back.” He opened his mouth to protest, but I quickly interrupted, determined to lighten the moment. “Alright, alright, let’s not make this feel like some dramatic farewell. It’s just three days, and I’m not so weak that I can’t manage without you for that short time.” That was a lie. I hated the thought of even a moment apart from hi