The moment Elena’s arms wrapped around him, Ryker felt something inside him loosen. Relief. Fear. Something he didn’t want to name.
But the second her whisper hit his chest—I thought I was going to lose you—something else snapped tight again.
He pulled back just enough to look at her.
“What were you even doing there?!” The anger in his voice surprised even him. “I told you to stay in the safe room.”
Elena’s eyes widened, then narrowed. “I wasn’t going to sit back while everyone fights. I’m not some fragile little girl. I knew I could
help, and you needed me.”
“What I need,” Ryker shot back, “is to know you can follow your Alpha’s orders and do what you’re told.”
Elena froze.
Shock flickered across her face—then hurt. Deep, sharp, unmistakable.
“Obey,” she said quietly. “That’s wh
