Hidden Secrets (editing and improving the story)

Chapter 42 - Misunderstanding

Alexander's pov:

I was working late in my office, reviewing a stack of reports, when Alina walked in with a determined look on her face.

"Alpha, I need to speak with you. It's important," she said urgently.

I set the files aside and looked up. "What's going on, Alina?"

"We have a female from the Black Shadow Pack in the dungeons," she said, standing straight.

I stiffened. "Who is she?" I asked, already bracing for the worst.

"Relax—it's not Elektra," she quickly added.

My shoulders eased slightly. "Then who?"

" I don't know. She refuses to speak to anyone apart from you. All I know is that she attacked Cassadra"

"What?" I frowned. "Why would she do that?"

"I don't know," Alina admitted. "Maybe Bartholomew sent her. She's part of his inner circle."

I leaned back in my chair, processing the information. "Did she say anything in her defense?"

"She's insisting on speaking with you directly," Alina replied.

"Well done for handling this quickly. Keep two guards on Cassandra, just in case."

"Already done," she said with a proud nod.

"That's why you're the best," I told her, giving a thumbs-up. She grinned at the rare praise.

The next few days passed in a blur of frustration. My spies still hadn't uncovered Elektra's location. Anxiety gnawed at me—I couldn't shake the feeling that something was very wrong.

To make matters worse, Bartholomew had also vanished. That couldn't be a coincidence. I was nearly certain Elektra had gone to find him... but why stay away? Why not return to her pack?

I needed answers.

I picked up my phone and dialed David. The line rang twice before he answered.

"This is Beta David speaking!"

"Good evening, David. This is Alexander from the Silver Dawn Pack."

"Alpha Alexander, how can I help you?" he asked politely.

"I'm worried about Elektra. Have you heard any news of her whereabouts?"

"I don't know anything," David admitted. "That's why Roxanne came to see you—to help us find her."

"Roxanne? Roxanne as Elektra's nanny?"

"Yes. She's been here with your pack since last week."

"Oh my Goddess! Roxanne was a member of the Black Shadow Pack?" I asked incredulously.

"I'm sorry,  I don't follow...Of course she's a member of the Black Shadow Pack" David said, confused.

"I have to go now. I'll call you later," I said, cutting the call.

I then mind-linked one of the guards. "Bring Roxanne to me immediately."

How had I let this happen? How had I allowed myself to imprison her like this?

A few minutes later, Roxanne entered, looking exhausted and malnourished.

"Mrs. Roxanne," I said, feeling a pang of guilt.

"Alpha Alexander," she replied, bowing with a stern look. Then, irritated, she added, "What took you so long?"

I motioned for her to sit, and she did without hesitation. I knew a lot about Roxanne from Elektra's stories but had never met her. Sadly, my first impression wasn't good—her time in captivity had taken its toll.