**The Perfect 356**
**Chapter 356**
“Do you have any idea where they’ve been spending their holidays?” Alexander inquired, his tone laced with curiosity.
The warriors surrounding us all shook their heads, their expressions reflecting a mix of confusion and concern. But deep down, I was acutely aware of where they might have gone. A flicker of determination surged within me as I focused on the bond shared with Alexander, sending him a vivid image. It was the house where Lilith and I had witnessed the ritual earlier that night—or was it last night? The realization hit me like a cold wave; the sun was already beginning to rise, casting a golden hue across the horizon.
Alexander’s understanding flickered in his eyes, and he nodded to the assembled warriors, a silent signal passing between them.
“I see,” he said. “Well, we should make our way—”
“Hold on a moment.” The Delta stepped forward, placing a firm hand on the weapon at his hip, his demeanor shifting to one of authority. “I apologize, Alpha King, but I cannot simply allow you to leave. You’ve trespassed on our territory.”
A knot of anxiety twisted in my stomach, but Alexander was quick to respond, his voice steady. “This is a matter of state. As I mentioned, I had my reasons for my actions.”
“Then enlighten us,” the Delta shot back, his tone challenging. “If your explanation holds merit, we will consider letting you go.”
In that moment, I sensed a hesitation from Alexander, a flicker of uncertainty that mirrored the turmoil I had felt in my own heart over the past few months. He was acutely aware of the precariousness of our situation, burdened by the weight of the curse that loomed over us. How could he navigate this minefield without revealing the truth to these warriors?
After a tense pause, Alexander finally stated, “I cannot disclose the details. It’s classified—an investigation that has been ongoing for years. Only my agents and I are privy to the specifics.” He gestured toward us, indicating Lilith and me.
The Delta raised an inquisitive brow at me, and I nearly burst out laughing at the absurdity of it all, had the circumstances been lighter. It was ironic, really, to think that there was a time when Alexander had suspected me of being a spy for my father, and now here he was, insinuating that I was his own operative. The irony was not lost on me.
Oh, how desperately I longed to do just that. The thought of crawling into bed with him, enveloped in his warmth, feeling his skin against mine, tasting his lips… it was a temptation I could hardly resist.
But I knew I had to.
“We shouldn’t be seen together until the curse is lifted,” I replied softly, gently withdrawing my hand from his grasp. The house was already alive with the bustling morning staff, and the last thing we needed was to raise suspicions. “People will start asking questions, and we can’t risk anyone else getting hurt.”
I could see the disappointment wash over Alexander’s face, but deep down, I knew he understood the gravity of the situation. It wasn’t as if I relished the idea of being apart from him; it was merely a necessity.
Just then, the door to Alexander’s office creaked open, and Anya stepped into the room, her expression a mixture of concern and curiosity.
“What are you talking about?” she asked, her brow furrowing. “What questions?”

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