Snowridge's Secret (Book 1)

63 - Curiosity

Alexi - POV

"Well, it was great meeting you, Alexi. I look forward to our next session." Dr. Nesse commented as she turned off the timer on her desk.

"Me too. Thank you for your time." I replied, hoping my smile came across as genuine. Even though I wasn't really looking forward to these sessions, but, I promised my mate and my family that I would attend.

I gave her one last nod as I exited her office in the pack house. Apparently, she was a good friend of the twins, and they recommended her to my parents. I found her to be very friendly and approachable. I just hoped that this would work. The thought of experiencing the breakdown I had a few days ago at school was not on my to-do list.

I tried to clear my mind as I made my way down the stairs. Focusing on the decorations and flurry of activity that surrounded me. Since today was my brother's engagement ceremony.

The pack had been covered in black and yellow decorations. The stage had been set up in the great hall, and a small arena built adjacent to it, in case anyone was stupid enough to challenge Luka. Hopefully, they weren't, and everything went smoothly.

But, if recent events were any kind of measure, I didn't have any expectations.

"Alexi!"

My eyes shot up at the distant sound of my name just as I reached the bottom of the stairs. Just in time to notice Staci waving at me. Her long black hair swayed as she walked towards me. Weaving her way through the mass of people gathered here for the event.

She was one of the best warriors in the pack and my sisters best friend. She often travels throughout the sub-packs handling security issues.

"Staci." I nodded at her as she joined me. Walking instep as we made our way out of the pack house. "How have you been?" I ask politely. This earns me a happy smile from the tall girl. Her cheerful attitude is quite deceiving for someone as dangerous as she is.

"Good. Good." She replies happily. Stepping in front of me just as I was about to open the coat closet before leaving the packhouse. I give her a curious look as she continues to block the door. "I need you to come with me."

Her words are soft and direct. Peaking my curiosity as she glances around. I nod in confirmation. Receiving a small grin as she turns and heads down a side hall that leads towards the training facility.

"What's going on?" I ask, my curiosity getting the best of me as we make our way down the deserted hall. Only a few warriors and scouts are coming and going from this area.

"The beta sent me to get you." She starts. Turning towards one of the larger practice rooms. Stopping just as we reach the door. "Their here." Are her last words as she glances back at me. A concerned look on her face before she opens the door.

I extend my senses just as the door opens. The scents and auras of our guests burning themselves into my mind as I memorize each one. Xander assessed them as we followed her into the room. My senses detect nearly one hundred different shifters, witches, and other beings.

My eyes flash as we make our way towards the large group. Noticing the beta and Vivian standing at the front of the room. Their attention focused on whatever they were saying to them as we approached. But it's not them that peaks my interest.

As my eyes scan over the large group, I sense five strong auras among the witches and shifters sent here to protect the packs while we are away at the trial. And those five are nearly as strong or stronger than Vivian. Yet, one peaks my interest, even though I can't see them yet.

My eyes flickering as they move to the side of the group. Focusing on three individuals who are seated next to the beta and Vivian.

My steps slowing as a familiar feeling hits me. One I remember from the war, but only for a few moments. My eyes search until we reach the group, and the aura starts to pulse. My eyes lock onto it immediately as I watch one of the people wearing the strange cloaks stand up.