“Tougher!” Kyle shouted at a pair of boys learning to attack and defend. He hadn’t slept for weeks. The last decent sleep he’d had was with Ashlee beside him. It was almost astonishing he’d slept so soundly—something rare in his life since becoming an Alpha.
“He shouldn’t be that tough on the newcomers,” Derion muttered, watching Kyle through a window. He was about to rush over when Esyn stopped him.
“Let him be. These days have been harder on him,” Esyn said, sipping sour berry juice.
“What do you mean?” Derion tilted his head, confused.
“He hasn’t seen his mate for weeks, and he doesn’t even know how she’s doing. Even though he hides it, he still cares about her.” Esyn smiled softly at Derion, licking her lips to wash away the sour taste.
“And why’s that?” Derion wrapped his arms a
