The Fall – 1

Sebastian’s POV

“Alpha, would you like me to bring you something from the cafeteria?” Rayne asked, but I continued facing the floor-to-ceiling window, my mind miles from the office. The view outside was impressive, distant mountains gleaming in the sunset. All of it my territory, one reason I’d chosen this office. Today, though, the scenery seemed dull; the usual satisfaction was gone.

“Not necessary,” I replied shortly, without turning.

He hesitated before quietly closing the door. I sighed in frustration. For some reason, an ominous feeling had been following me like a shadow, coming in waves, stronger today than before. Danger. My wolf growled deep inside, but even he couldn’t pinpoint the threat. As Alpha, I was used to controlling everything, and this nameless fear made me feel powerless in a way I’d never experienced.

I tried to focus my thoughts on Thea; on the distrust and doubt in her eyes two days ago when I confessed my feelings. I understood why she couldn’t believe me. For seven years, I’d played the role of the cold, heartless husband, repeatedly emphasizing she was merely Aurora’s replacement. I’d done everything possible to make her understand she was worthless in my eyes. How could I expect her to believe I suddenly loved her? If our roles were reversed, I’d have scoffed too.

Seven years of pain isn’t something you overcome in a day or a week. Hell, it might take years to heal the wounds I’d caused, and those scars would probably always be there.

I wanted her. I wanted her in my life. I wanted to build a life with her. I craved that more than anything, but if she wouldn’t have me, so be it. I had only myself to blame. This would be my penance for the years of hurt I’d caused.

My wolf stirred again, huffing and puffing. I roughly loosened my tie, trying to give myself some breathing room. I couldn’t sit still; the feeling of unease intensified. I’d never had this inescapable feeling before, like something bad was about to happen. I tried to reassure myself, but it didn’t work.

I turned on the TV, hoping outside voices would dispel the gloom in my head. Listening to other people’s voices was better than being tormented by my wolf’s uneasy warnings, anyway.

Just as I was pacing my office for the tenth time, the door suddenly flew open. Damien stood there, his eyes blood-red, breathing fast, his expression showing deep concern and pain. My blood instantly froze. Shit. My brother was usually composed, not easily rattled. As twins, we shared that trait. If he looked this different, something serious had to be wrong.

“What is it?” I asked, my heart racing.

Was it our parents? Or Leo?

“Sebastian…” he started, but didn’t finish. His voice was laced with pain.

“Fuck, Damien, tell me what’s going on. Is it Mom or Dad?”

His Adam’s apple bobbed; his gaze finally focused on me.

“It’s Thea,” he said, the name coming out with difficulty.

Just as I was about to ask for more, an unfamiliar voice mentioned her name. I began turning toward the TV.

“Sebastian, don’t look, look at me.” Damien pleaded, but I ignored him.

All my attention was on the “Breaking News” banner flashing on the television.

“We’ve just learned that Ms. Thea Sterling, founder of the Dawnhaven Foundation and second daughter of the Sterling family, has been shot downtown by unidentified individuals. Her condition is unclear at this time, but according to witnesses, this appears to be a targeted attack. The following footage may be disturbing…”