Page 87 of Alpha's Forbidden Fate

The rest of the question lingers between us.

Does mom know about Selene?

About my connection to her?

“Not yet, but I will tell her as soon as I am back. I just need to get more information, okay? Please keep it that way.”

“You got it. You know I have your back, bro.”

“I know,” I whisper.

I just hope I am not putting your life in danger by asking you to keep this secret.

We share a quick bro hug, our brotherly bond intact. As I head toward the school gates, I feel like Selene’s eyes are on me, watching my every move from one of the classroom windows.

I resist the urge to look up and acknowledge her presence.

“Take care, Gray, and call me if you need anything,” I call out over my shoulder.

He nods.

The drive out of town is a blur as my mind is consumed with thoughts of Selene, Marco, and the growing tension in town.

As I drive, my thoughts lead me to my friends and family. I’ll do whatever it takes to protect them, even if it means facing the truth about myself and my feelings for Selene.

Even if it means finding a way to get over them.

I drive into Cedar Creek for the first time. The streets are lined with towering trees, their branches reaching out as if to welcome me. It seems peaceful here, and despite the circumstances of my visit, I’m thankful for this bit of respite.

Here, there is no Selene or missing persons to think about.

My first stop is a gas station at the edge of town. As I step inside, the bell above the door chimes, and the cashier looks up, offering me a friendly nod.

“Hey there, what can I do for you?”

“Just grabbing some gum,” I reply, scanning the shelves. As I reach for a pack, I pull out a photo of Elias, showing it to the attendant.

“Do you know this guy?” I ask, hoping for some information about Elias’s kin.

The attendant studies the photo for a moment before nodding. “Yeah, I know him. Elias and his biker gang used to come by here all the time to refuel.”

I raise an eyebrow. “Biker gang, huh? You know where I can find his family?”

The attendant scratches his chin thoughtfully. “Last I heard, he was living with his grandmother out in the Whispering Pines Trailer Park. But I haven’t seen her around in months, so I’m not sure if they’re still there.”

“Thanks,” I say gratefully. “I’ll check it out.”

I pay for my gum and head back to my car. The sun is beginning to set as I drive towards the trailer park. On my way, I decide I’d better stop somewhere for dinner.

I pull into the parking lot of a quaint diner, the neon sign flickering to life in the fading light. Inside, the air is filled with the delicious aroma of comfort food, and I can’t resist ordering a plate of chicken and waffles.

As I wait for my order, I take out my phone and send a quick text to my mother.

LIAM: Hey, Mom, I’ve made it to Cedar Creek and have a lead on where to find Elias’ family.

JADE: Hi, Son. Glad you made it safe and sound. All’s quiet here for the moment. Stay safe, and we’ll see you in a couple of days.

LIAM: Will do. You stay safe, too.

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