Hidden Secrets (editing and improving the story)

Chapter 38 - The trap

Bartholomew's pov:

I got home around noon and immediately spotted fresh tracks on the trail. Alexander hadn't wasted any time—he'd sent a scout after me. I followed the prints cautiously, keeping to the shadows, until they led me straight to my hut.

I ducked behind some trees and scanned the area. A figure was circling the cabin, trying to peer inside. My heart skipped a beat when I recognized him. Jordan. Ready to break in. I should've known scouts weren't this careless.

In a flash, I slipped from my hiding spot and grabbed him from behind, wrapping my arms tightly around his neck.

"What are you doing here?" I hissed, tightening my grip.

"Bartholomew... I finally found you!" he gasped, struggling to breathe.

"What do you want, Jordan?" I demanded.

"I came to warn you. Elektra will betray you."

I narrowed my eyes. "How did you find me?"

Jordan smirked despite the pressure. "I wouldn't be your Beta if I couldn't. Don't forget—I know a lot about you."

"What do you want?" I repeated, voice cold.

"Nothing. Even if you find it hard to believe, I'm still loyal to you."

I studied him carefully. "Did anyone follow you?"

"Of course not," Jordan replied confidently. "I'm no amateur. Even with Council spies everywhere, I managed to slip through unnoticed."

I nodded, genuinely impressed. "You risked a lot coming all the way up here."

Jordan met my gaze, unwavering. "For you? Anything."

A slow, wicked smile spread across my face. "Good. Because now it's time to prove that loyalty."

I leaned in closer, my voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper as I began to lay out my plan.

Elektra's pov:

Alexander's visit left me with a lot to think about. First, I realized the Council's spies must already know that I've been meeting with my father in secret. I can't afford to put him at risk so recklessly. Second, Alexander's insistence on my father's guilt planted a seed of doubt. Could there be some truth to what Alexander says? Why did he come all this way to warn me? Does he really care that much?

No... no, my father loves me. He might be rough around the edges, but he's never lied to me. He's always protected me.

I don't know what Alexander's real intentions are, and honestly, I don't want to. Why can't he stay with his mate and leave me alone? Why does he keep interfering in my life?

I see now that Father was right about him and his family. Alexander is our enemy. He's the reason my father was trapped. Even though he found his mate, he still tries to appear supportive and kind to me. Everyone knows a wolf's loyalty is to his mate alone. So what does he really want from me?

I pushed the troubling thoughts aside and threw myself into my work. It was already nine in the evening, and I had plenty to do when a knock interrupted my focus. John, my guard, stepped inside.

"Alpha, the previous Beta is here. He wants to talk to you."

"Jordan? What does he want? Let him in."

A few moments later, Jordan entered, his usual irritatingly self-assured attitude clear as ever. I continued to review my files until he cleared his throat.

"Good evening, Elektra."

"It's Alpha for you," I reminded sharply. He rolled his eyes but didn't argue.