Alpha Alec's Redemption by Kathy M

I feel like a weight has been placed on my shoulders. Like there's this massive boulder crushing down on me.

They make killing Kaden seem so easy-like it's a walk in the park. But what if it's not? I mean, the deities tried to kill him and failed. What makes them think I can?

Forget the prophecy. Forget what it says. This feels like a mission impossible. Like we're already doomed to fail.

"Sadie," his voice calls, drawing me back to the present. "Are you okay?"

I blink and glance around the room, realizing that everyone except Raven and Alec is gone. I'd been so lost in thought I hadn't even noticed them leaving.

I focus on Alec, all the while trying to push down the rising tide of anxiety. What do

I say? That I'm not okay? That I'm scared out of my mind? That I don't believe this plan will work? That I don't feel ready or powerful enough to go up against Kaden?

Honestly speaking, Xena scares the hell out of me, but Kaden? He's something else. There is just something about him. Something I can't put into words. The fear I have of him seems to be etched in my soul.

"Sadie?" Raven's voice this time.

I look at both of them, trying to summon a reassuring smile. All I manage is a slight twitch of my lips.

"I'm okay," I lie softly. "Just thinking."

Weirdly enough, Raven and Alec glance at each other, as if silently

communicating. It's unexpected. I wouldn't have imagined that kind of unspoken understanding between them.

"Are you sure?" Alec presses, eyes locking with mine.

"Yes."

"Is this about Kaden?" Raven asks gently. "Don't worry about it. It's only a matter of time until I trace the source of the spell and find his exact location. You know me—I wouldn't bring this to you unless I was sure it would work."

I do know that. I know she wouldn't present a plan unless she had thoroughly thought it through. But still... there's this gnawing feeling. That feeling that cautions you. That leaves alarms bells ringing in your head... A familiar sense of foreboding I can't shake. Like a warning in my bones.

sigh, trying to ignore it. "I know, Raven. Maybe I just need some time

takes my hand and gives it a reassuring squeeze. "Okay. Just remember-

real this time. She's right. We've been in this together for three

up when I see her yawn for the hundredth time. "I need

laced with exhaustion and

help her up and give Alec one last look

in silence. The only sounds between us are her soft sighs and occasional yawns. She's so worn out, even her movements are

her door, I push it open

beat," she mutters, eyes already half-closed. "I think I might need a month

her shoes, then ease her down into the bed and cover her

Rave," I whisper, even though her

I frown, worried that something might be wrong, and I turn and look back

says again, her voice softer now. "I have a feeling this is

loosen her grip and hold her hand in both of mine. "I know, Raven. I

out. Once I'm sure she's asleep, I leave her room and quietly close the door behind

as guilt begins creeping up my throat like a vine. I

I don't trust her. I trust her with my life. I just don't trust this plan. I don't

is nonexistent right now, and

could tell them what I'm feeling, but can't. Everyone's hope is riding so high. I can't shatter that Not unless I have hard proof that this will all go horribly wrong. All i can

a shaky breath, I shove the unease

chuckle leaves my lips because it seems that's all I've been doing lately. Pushing down my feelings. Some would say it's unhealthy,

but just as I turn the corner,

earlier, she's fumbling with her fingers, looking unsure and

say a word.

Raven asleep?" she finally breaks

I nod slowly.

grows heavy again.

she's struggling to find the

she says gently.

her, surprised that I