Chapter 52: Sleep Under Your Sheets
But Ryder’s relaxed and nonchalant air only served to fan the flames of the warrior’s fury. Enraged by what he perceived as Ryder’s arrogance and defiance, the warrior took a menacing step forward, but another held him back.
"Don’t, Steve. The Luna won’t like it," the voice cautioned, as Steve’s face twisted in a scowl, his anger and frustration barely contained.
Steve growled at Ryder’s disappearing back, frustrated that he couldn’t claw that infuriating face of his.
...
Meanwhile, inside Reana’s tent, she stood with her back to the entrance, her slender figure silhouetted against the soft, golden glow of the lanterns that lit the tent. "Take off your shirt." She said the moment he stepped in.
Ryder smiled as he began to unlace his shirt, his movements deliberate and unhurried, as his eyes stuck to Reana’s back.
"I understand they’re giving you a hard time," she began, turning to face him. Her eyes, like two glittering stars, locked onto his. "What can you do to protect and prove yourself?"
He had assured her he wasn’t weak, and Reana had taken him at his word. In their world of werewolves, respect was earned through strength and battle prowess.
A leader who couldn’t defeat their own pack members in a friendly fight would never gain their trust and respect.