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She steps out last, and when I look back, the building is completely dark.
The minimal street lighting makes the town look haunted at night.
No one’s ever around when we leave.
Everyone’s in their homes by now.
Well, everyone except us.
We walk down the steps and Cora and Astor wave as they head off in the direction of their cabin.
They disappear into the night, and I follow Alina and Emily, my gaze studying all the dark paths and corners we pass. Nightshade has always felt safe. Well protected.
The Alpha has always promised his people his protection.
Ever since I encountered that footprint in the mud, I knew we were no longer safe.
Alina confirmed that fear when she visited the Alpha and found out he wasn’t doing what he’d promised.
I get agitated thinking about it, but I don’t feel my wolf rising.
When I connect with her, she exudes so much calm that I actually relax a little.
It’s kind of strange. I don’t think I’ve ever felt her like this.
Usually, her presence means something is wrong.
Well, she isn’t present right now.
I guess maybe if I checked in on her more often, I’d find her like this at times.
She feels sleepy. It makes me yawn.
I disconnect, needing to be alert.
Alina will insist I go to bed when we get home if I seem tired. She’ll use it as an excuse to avoid talking to me. I don’t want that. If I sit with her for a while, she’ll talk, I’m sure of it.
We wave to Emily as she heads into her cabin.
Alina seems to stiffen up a little once our friend is gone.
I can’t imagine what could be making her so tense.
It’s not like her to avoid talking about anything.
She’s always so open, and so quick to help anyone who might be having a hard time.
She’s the one who lifts everyone else’s mood just by being around.
I don’t know what would make her clam up like this.
She goes straight to the kitchen once we get home.
I lock the front door, taking my time to give her a moment alone before I follow her.
She’s making tea, which is one of her main rituals, besides praying.
I take off my jacket and put it over the back of my usual chair.
