Page 50 of Griffin

If I wanted to be a part of Michael’s life, I had to accept that Todd was part of the package. That didn’t mean my misgivings disappeared. Far from it.

Todd knew Michael first. He’d been there for him, supported him. That much was clear.

But my instincts, sharpened by years as an enforcer, told me there was more to Todd than Michael realized—or maybe wanted to admit.

My wolf didn’t trust him, and honestly, neither did I.

The thought made me tightened my jaw. It wasn’t just jealousy, though I wasn’t immune to that.

It was the lingering feeling that Todd’s influence over Michael wasn’t entirely selfless.

I shook my head and stood, pacing the small space of my office. Cooper’s call had been a wake-up call in more ways than one.

I couldn’t afford to lose focus, not when the pack needed me at my best.

But at the same time, I couldn’t ignore what was happening in Michael’s life—or the pull I felt to protect him.

Deciding I’d stewed long enough, I left the office and headed for the kitchen. Michael wanted to go back to Cinderfield soon. Despite my initial resistance, I’d come around—not because I thought it was a good idea.

My wolf growled at the mere thought of him returning to the place where his stalker had gotten too close.

But if we went back, I’d have a chance to take the measure of Todd for myself.

To see if the man Michael trusted so deeply was really what he seemed—or if there was something darker lurking beneath the surface.

I grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge, twisting off the cap and taking a long drink. The idea of facing Todd wasn’t appealing, but it felt necessary.

“Griffin?”

I turned to find Noah leaning in the doorway, arms crossed and a curious look on his face.

“You’re brooding,” he said, a teasing smirk tugging at his lips.

I grunted, leaning against the counter. “Just thinking.”

“What did Cooper say?” Noah asked.

I told him everything. I hid no secrets from my brother.

“So what are you really worried about? The summit or Michael?” Noah asked.

“Both,” I admitted.

Noah stepped into the kitchen, his expression softening.

“Look, I get it. The summit’s a big deal, and so is Michael. But you’ve got to find a way to balance it, man. The pack needs you. And so does he—whether he’s ready to admit it or not.”

“I know,” I said, my voice low. “I’m working on it.”

“Good.” Noah clapped me on the shoulder, his grin returning. “And hey, don’t let Cooper stress you out. He’s not Ryder.”

I huffed a quiet laugh, shaking my head.

“Yeah, I know. It’s just… sometimes it’s hard to forget what things were like under Ryder. But Cooper’s different. I get that,” I said.

“Damn right he is.” Noah’s grin widened. “And about Michael? Maybe don’t wait too long to tell him how you feel.”

I watched him leave, his words lingering in the air like a challenge.

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