The Alpha's Shape of Deception

ked more lightly than usual along the hallways. She didn't intend to listen in. Ev

on in their comments was evident despite their hushed tones. Lyra stop

m telling you, it doesn't make sense." "How

e other person asked, "You thi

isn't another reason. That or th

anything. The suggestion concerning Ryker hurt even more

ves were whispering to one another, their words laced with distrust, everywhere she looked. Lyra could

the central table, talking to Talon with his arms crossed. Lyra's

t enough. He declared, "The rogues are getting closer." "Too near

, "Assemble the warriors." "Before they

ttention. When Ryker saw her, his gaze softe

ng on?" she

Talon declared frankly. "Gre

yra forced herself to remain co

shoulder. "You're going to remain here," he sa

voice more forceful than she had

stern. "This cannot

his. "Ryker, I can assist

one another for a moment. He sighed at last, his determination

d to stick at his side despite the danger, e

canopy. The two of them were alone close to the southern boundary of the area, since the patrol had br

nlight. The words seemed lodged in her throat, but she wanted to spea

ude, saying, "You'

ered. "I'm thinking a

ack?" he enquired

This, the murmurs, the rogues. feeling a

r a minute as his gaze swept over hers. His voice was firm but low as he said, "Listen to me, Lyra." "I need your trus

"I do trust you." However, there are moments when it seems like y

t because it was such a sweet and unexpected gesture. He remarked, "You don't realise

chest. But before she could respond, the silence was broken by a low, melancholy howl

rn. He said, "Stay close," in a t

utomatically went to the dagger at her belt. The prospect of peril made the ai

siness. The open courtyard of the packhouse was now a whirl of activity. Wolves made deliberate movements, preparing defences, transporti

a useful braid, accentuated her determined yet delicate face. The leather armour she wore was flexible and light, but it was scuffed and scratched from innu

med and made frantic gestures while

eavy halberd from the boy's shaking hands. His lanky stature could hardly keep

rn voice. Later on, you'll need your strength.

es softening. She was admired by the younger wolves not only for her relationship with Ryker but also for the wa

re was bursting with urgency as the silver-haired warrior surged towards h

eenagers were huddled together, their faces displaying a mixture of excitement and terror.

attention! I am aware that some of you are afraid. That is typical. However, you don't have t

ned as she spoke, and a mu

e to protect us." "This pack includes you. That indicates that you are strong enough

lly turning to resolve. One of them moved forward, a boy with brig

r now, follow Celeste's example. Remain united and ne

ntrol. Lyra returned her focus to the courtyard, glancing critically at the bustle

sense of control wa

he eerie chorus filled the air. The wolves surrounding her paused, their gazes darting to the ed

that broke through the growi

d. Lyra remained behind, searching the trees for activity while her heart raced. She cou