Ninety two

As she spoke, I could feel the weight of her words, and my heart sank. It hurt to see Carey like this, so vulnerable and distressed. Without a second thought, I wrapped my arms around her, pulling her into a comforting embrace.

"Tell me what's going on, Carey," I urged gently, my voice soothing and reassuring. "You can trust me. I'm here for you, no matter what."

"It's Bryce, Selene. He promised me he'd be back as soon as possible," Carey said, her eyes glistening with tears. "But it's been days, Selene. I can't help but imagine the worst. I know I should calm down and wait for him, but I just can't shake off this feeling of dread."

"Have you tried reaching out to him in any way?" I asked gently. "Maybe he's just unable to respond due to the nature of his mission."

"I've called him countless times, but his line is always off," she replied, worry etched on her face. "And I can't even go to the alpha or anyone in the pack to ask about him. He made it clear that this mission is top-secret, and I don't want to put him in jeopardy. I'm really worried about him, Selene."

I sighed, knowing how worried she was. "How about we wait for a few more days? If need be, we can go to the alpha together and ask to know about his whereabouts."

"But..."

I cut in. "We don't have to let him know we are aware of his mission. We can just go to him in form of a complaint that you haven't seen your mates for days and since he is the alpha's direct subordinate, I think it is their responsibility to find out his whereabouts."

Her eyes lit up almost immediately, and she jumped, grabbing my head. "Why don't we go now?"

I shook my head. "No, not now. Let's give it a few more days so we don't raise a fake alarm."

She seemed reluctant but did not argue with me and nodded. "Thanks a lot, Selene."

"Why are you thanking me?" I countered. "We are sisters. It is my duty to help out at times like this."

She didn't say anything to this and simply nodded. I asked, "Did his mother come to find you or cause trouble since then?"

She shook her head negatively. "No, she didn't. But his cousin came looking for him."

"It's only a matter of time before his mom comes then. When she learns he is not home, it is likely she will use the chance to cause trouble with you and make sure you leave," I replied.

Carey's eyes widened for a second before dulling again. She nodded. "Yeah, I know that. His mother does not like me."

"You know what," I offered. "You should move into my place for now. Although I won't be around most of the time due to the nature of my job, at least, you won't be alone and vulnerable. If she comes looking for you again, you won't defend yourself alone."

She nodded, showing that she understood and seemed relieved. I helped her clean up her place again before we moved a few of the necessities to my room and she moved in with me.