Hidden Secrets (editing and improving the story)

Chapter 16 - Messed Up

Elektra's pov:

We turned back and saw Alpha Richard standing with his arms crossed, a sly, almost mocking smile playing on his lips. His eyes locked onto me, and with a sarcastic tone, he said:

"Well, well, well, this is the mate your father talked about...?"

I opened my mouth to speak. "Actually, this is Alpha Alexander of the Sil—" I started, feeling the need to explain despite knowing I shouldn't have to. His presence made me feel like I'd been caught red-handed.

"I know who he is," Richard cut me off curtly, his eyes narrowing.

"I'm sorry, but we have to go now," I said, trying to steer the moment away.

Richard chuckled darkly. "What's with the rush? We're having such a great time..."

Alexander's tone hardened, clearly unable to tolerate Richard's condescension. "What do you want, Alpha Richard?"

"Nothing... absolutely nothing," Richard said, throwing his hands up in mock surrender.

"Okay then. See you at the meeting," Alexander said sharply, turning as if to leave.

"Alpha Alexander, wait a second," Richard called out. "I'd like to speak with you... in private."

Alexander stopped, narrowing his eyes. "About what?"

Richard hesitated, voice lowering. "It's kind of personal..."

I stepped forward, awkward. "Excuse me, Alphas," I said softly, ready to slip away.

Alexander caught my arm gently, flashing me a reassuring smile. "See you at the meeting."

I nodded, returning his smile before turning away, leaving them alone in the fading afternoon light.

Third person pov:

"Well, well, well, Alpha Alexander and Elektra... Who would have thought," Richard sneered, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

Alexander's gaze sharpened. "What do you want, Richard?"

Richard smirked, leaning casually against the doorframe. "I need a favor."

"A favor? What kind of favor?"

"I want you to hand over the omega girl... in exchange for my silence."

Alexander's eyes darkened. "You know I can't do that. She's my Gamma's mate. No one has the authority to separate mates—not even our Goddess. You know the rules."

Richard waved dismissively. "Yeah, yeah, I know the rules. But think about it—she's just an insignificant omega. I'm sure your Gamma could find someone better. More beautiful."

Alexander's voice was cold steel. "That's not our decision to make, Richard."

Richard's smile twisted slyly. "Think about it. You kill two birds with one stone. You save your Gamma from an unworthy mate, and you keep your relationship with Elektra under wraps."

Alexander stood tall, pride flashing in his eyes. "I don't need to hide my relationship from anyone."

Richard's voice dropped, loaded with meaning. "Even from Bartholomew?"

"I'm not afraid of him... if that's what you're implying."

"You should be," Richard said darkly.

Alexander scoffed. "I don't see why."

"Don't be so arrogant, child," Richard warned, voice sharp as a blade. "She's just an omega girl."

Alexander's smirk was heavy with sarcasm. "An omega girl who apparently means a lot to you."