Even if I gave my Beta and Gamma a free day, I couldn’t escape work myself. Everyone insisted I took some time off, but I just couldn’t bring myself to do it. I knew I wouldn’t be able to properly enjoy my time with Valerie unless I took care of my pack first. It was in times like these that being a leader hurt the most. My heart fell when I noticed the sadness in my mate’s eyes as I told her I’d have to spend the day running around the territory, making sure our security had no flaws. She said she understood, but I knew she was desolate either way. I promised to meet her for dinner, suggesting we have a quiet date after. While I talked to each of the patrol teams, rearranged trap placements, and talked to Gwen about what her role would be in the fight, I also thought of a nice way to sur

