Page 26 of Brutal Alpha's Sold Mate
“I’ve studied here and there,” I answer vaguely, focusing on the ground. “You can learn a lot if you keep your ears open.”
“Well, you’ve got skill. They listen to you.”
The group regathers, curious about what we’re whispering. I clear my throat. “All right, back in position. Theo, you want to handle the next part?”
He nods and addresses them with authority. “Pairs of two. One partner jabs, the other blocks. Practice that for five reps, then switch.”
They scramble to obey, excited to train with the man they suspect will be their future alpha. I step back, let him lead for a while, and observe. A comfortable rhythm settles over us, like we’re working together without the usual tension that’s followed us since the day Theo “acquired” me.
Toward the end, one young wolf runs up and curls his arms to make muscles. “That was amazing, Kai! I feel stronger already.”
I ruffle his hair and giggle. “Glad you got something out of it. Keep practicing and come back tomorrow.”
As the session winds down, Theo helps me demonstrate a final sequence, a quick combination of strike, dodge, and counter. My chest flutters again at the shift in his demeanor. He’s not scowling or barking orders. He’s encouraging them, praising their attempts, shaking his head in amusement when they flub up a move. Even my wolf, half-subdued as she is, seems to appreciate the moment.
When it’s finished, the group disperses, with several of them thanking both of us as they leave. I linger, tidying up the scattered supplies—a few wooden practice staves and rags for wiping sweat. Theo drifts closer, slipping his hands into his pockets.
“You’re good at that,” he remarks.
I glance over, feeling a small tug in my chest. “I used to teach more advanced moves to… some friends.” My voice wobbles, but I disguise it with a cough.
He lowers his gaze to the staves. “Friends, huh?”
“They were interested in self-defense, so I showed them a few tricks.”
He picks up one of the staves and turns it over in his hands. “Must’ve been serious if you got this skilled.”
I shrug. “What can I say? I like to keep a collection of skills in my arsenal.”
He sets the stake back down. “Well, I don’t want to pry if you’re not ready to talk about your old pack. But thanks for doing this for our people. It might save lives someday.”
“I’m not doing it for the pack,” I counter. “I’m doing it for them—the women and younger wolves who never got a chance to learn.”
“Same thing,” he replies. “They’re part of my pack.”
I give a dismissive snort. “Don’t read too much into it. I’m not signing up to be your second-in-command.”
“I never asked you to.” He lets out a small chuckle. “But if you keep going like this, you’ll be more popular with our people than I am.”
I roll my eyes, though it’s more playful than annoyed. “Right. Should I expect to be crowned soon?”
He tilts his head in mock thought. “Wouldn’t put it past them to start bowing in your presence.”
Despite myself, I laugh. It’s a short burst, but it feels genuine. He smiles at me, and I catch an odd change in his expression, like he’s glad he made me laugh. My chest tightens at the realization that I’m letting my guard down with him, even if it’s just an inch.
I break the moment by grabbing the staves. “Anyway, guess we’ll do more tomorrow. I don’t want them to be too sore to show up.”
“I’ll be there.” He waits a beat. “If that’s okay with you.”
Strange how the man who once pinned me to the ground without apology is now asking permission. I slide him a sidelong look. “Fine. You can show them some grappling moves.”
“Deal.” He turns to go, then glances over his shoulder. “Kai?”
I pause, hugging the staves against me. “What?”
“I know I’m not your favorite person right now, but I’m glad you’re not letting your situation stop you.”
My throat feels tight. I look away. “It’ll take more than a stupid potion to break me.”
