by Riley Ross, Sally Slayer, Kaydence Rayne, & Dovey Mayali Cralk
*****
What worried Seth the most wasn't the reaction his parents would have if they found out. Although that wasn't something he wanted to experience, it would be tame in comparison to the leaders' reaction. They had dedicated years to his training and would eventually grant him permission to marry a potential mate of acceptable standards. The problem with Alyssa had nothing to do with her looks or brains, because she definitely had both, but she lacked a certain quality that would be required in a future leader's significant other.
Alyssa couldn't shift.
Seth had known about his abilities since he was a child. Both of his parents were shifters, so he and Rachel grew up knowing how to hide it from the mortals. Exposing the paranormal realm to those without the gift was highly punishable. Those that did, and were discovered, were taken care of pretty quickly.
He didn't want Alyssa to find out about any of this. Hell, he didn't want to be a part of it. He would give almost anything to have been born a normal kid in a normal family. This summer was going to be his last chance to spend any real time with her. She was going away for college and he wasn't allowed to leave. He'd only see her on holidays and school breaks until she got over him and made a life for herself away from here. In a couple years’ time he would be fully indoctrinated into the role of a Leader and there would be next to no chance for him to ever see her. Selfish as it may be, he couldn't help himself. He wanted to be with her, and he would before it was too late.
