The Shift

Chapter 6

(Authors note: Hey Guys, I'm so sorry about the delay. I got a surprise contract with a school for the next couple of weeks teaching so my week has been a bit hectic and I haven't had time to write. This chapter is a bit longer and I hope it makes up for it. Thank you all so much for reading, voting, and following me your support means the world to me and I hope you enjoy this chapter!)

"Not tonight" I said shifting my eyes off of Austin and out the window of the car

"it won't be that bad princess come on, it won't be all wolfs there will be humans too" he said

I didn't turn to face him for risk that I would give in

"You know how I feel Austin. Why would I put myself in a situation where there's a higher chance of me finding a mate?"

He sighed starting the car. I looked out the window towards the trees watching as the sky danced a beautiful orange and pink as the sun continued to set. I watched as the forest began to move around us as Austin started the short drive back towards the city. I turn and look at him, he seems to be lost in his own thoughts again. I wonder if he does that a lot.

My thoughts can't help but float back to the bomb Austin dropped earlier about his mate. I wonder if she ever leaves his thoughts, and if that's the case how has it not driven him crazy yet. I knew if I thought about the same thing over and over it would drive me up the wall.

I looked at him in wonder. All I could think is how strong he must be to face his pack every day with them knowing about his mate. How does he keep his head up and smile when he knows that everyone is constantly thinking about what happened to him and pitying him for it?

I couldn't help thinking about the fact he would probably have all eyes on him tonight as he entered the party alone, I began feeling a sinking feeling in my gut knowing I was about the regret the question that was about to come out of my mouth.

"You're going to be all alone tonight aren't you?" I said failing at preventing that question from falling out of my mouth.

His face fell momentarily "I won't be completely alone Xavier will be there with me once he is crowned but he will probably be pretty busy the entire night. Disadvantages of having the next alpha as your best friend I guess" he said with a sigh "I will probably sneak out after I congratulate him. Do you want to hang out after?" He asked as his smile reappeared on his face

"I would love to," I say, smiling back at him.

I watch as the lights of the city get closer. My mind still flies to Austin being alone tonight, I know he really doesn't want to face it by himself if he didn't mind he wouldn't have asked me to come. I bring my hand up to my mouth biting on the corner of my nail with a pit of anxiety growing in my stomach. I'm scared of wolves. Why am I even considering this for a man I barely know?

Deep down I know I feel a connection to Austin and would do anything to keep him happy, granted it's not a romantic feeling but more one you have for your family or someone you love dearly. I toss over the idea in my head I can't believe I'm actually considering this I think to myself.

"How long are you going to be there?" I question hesitantly.

" I don't know the ceremony won't take that long" he replied "after all is said and done maybe an hour and a half at most"

I look forward for a second taking in the buildings starting to tower above us. My mind was already made up but my voice was unable to finish the task.

"Are you okay Cassie?" Austin says looking at me with concern.

I give him a nod, my voice still not cooperating with me.