Page 45 of Brutal Alpha's Sold Mate
She looks at me with that mix of admiration and quiet respect. “You know, it’s nice seeing you handle things calmly instead of punching first.”
I grin. “What can I say? I’m growing. Maybe you’re rubbing off on me.”
A sly smile touches her lips. “I’ll take credit if it means fewer bruises for you.”
We sit there a bit longer, letting the day’s events sink in. Eventually, I glance at the time. “We should probably head back. We’ve been away from reality long enough, I suppose.”
I stand, offering her a hand this time. She stares at it, then takes it with a playful roll of her eyes. My chest flutters at the contact. Strange how a simple gesture can mean so much.
We gather our bags and stroll back to the truck. My mind’s still replaying that conversation with Reed—how I apologized and didn’t bother trying to come out on top. For once, I feel like I've gotten somewhere without violence or intimidation. It’s a nice feeling.
Kai loads her purchases, and I slide into the driver’s seat. She settles in beside me, hooking a seatbelt. I start the engine, and the truck rumbles to life. Neither of us speaks, but the quiet is comfortable, like we’ve shared something meaningful.
After a while, she leans her head back. “This was fun, you know. Actually fun. Like a real date.”
I grin at the road. “Pretty sure grabbing shampoo and jackets is the peak of romance in these parts.”
She laughs. “Don’t sell yourself short. You even sprang for pastries.”
I chuckle, remembering how she devoured that sweet treat. “Okay, fine. Best date we’ve had so far, then.”
“Yeah. Best so far.”
We drive on, the pack’s territory looming in the distance. I realize that I don’t feel dread returning to the day-to-day. For once, I’m looking forward to it—looking forward to implementing that mandatory training, letting everyone see that we’re not just talk. And maybe continuing this strange, wonderful closeness with Kai for as long as she’ll allow it.
When the truck finally rattles onto the familiar path toward my cabin, I park near the front, next to the SUV I take when I venture into other pack territories for show. Kai gathers her bags as I do the same, stepping out. She hoists the jacket over her shoulder, glancing around. A few watchers pass by, nodding politely. No urgent crises today. No new fires to put out.
She turns to me. “Thanks for… everything. Today was nice.”
I reach out, letting my hand brush hers. “Could do it again sometime, if you’re up for it.”
A spark dances in her eyes. “Maybe. If you don’t get roped into a border skirmish or an unstoppable training schedule.”
I smirk. “Let me know, and I’ll carve out time. I can outrun my watchers if I must.”
She shakes her head, but her grin is real. We start inside, though she pauses at the door. “Theo, about Reed—”
“I’m okay,” I say, cutting her off gently. “I got the apology off my chest, and it feels good. I’m not even mad he still won’t call me alpha. He can take all the time he needs.”
Her eyes light with pride. “Then I’m proud of you.”
The words seep into me, warm and comforting. “Thanks. I’m kind of proud of myself, too.”
With that, we step into the cabin. I shut the door, thinking about how, for once, I don’t need to “win” an argument. Some victories come from letting go.
Chapter 17 - Kai
I kick the punching bag again, testing the explosive strength that’s come roaring back after so many weeks of being half a ghost in my own body. The dull thud reverberates against my shin, but it doesn’t hurt, not in the slightest. My wolf pulses inside me, brimming with the vitality she’s been denied for too long. I’ve never felt more alive.
Tara, my most eager student who has become something of a friend here in Black Cauldron, squeals in mock alarm when the bag swings dangerously close to her. “Easy, Kai! We don’t all have your reflexes.”
I grin, catching the bag with one hand. “Sorry. Guess I’m a little excited.”
“A little?” She laughs, folding her arms while a few other shifters gather around. “You just about tore that bag off its chain.”
I give the heavy cylinder a pat, then turn to the onlookers. “Everybody pair up! Full-contact drills. No pulling punches, but respect your partner’s limits.”
The group breaks into pairs, and a surge of pride warms my chest. They’ve listened, believed me, and discovered their own strength. Meanwhile, I rediscovered mine. My wolf is no longer that faint presence cowering behind a wall of potions. She’s right here with me, lending her instincts and reflexes. The sense of personal victory makes my heart pound in the best way possible.
