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“If something happens to you next, I need to know how.”

Fuck.

“Come here.”

He hesitates before stepping between my knees. I put my hands on his shoulders.

“Listen to me. You're six years old.”

“Almost seven.”

“You're still six.”

His mouth tightens.

“You are Darlene and Arian's brother. You love them. You look out for them. But you are not responsible for keeping this entire family safe.”

“But I'm the oldest.”

“That doesn't make you their father.”

His brown eyes meet mine.

“That's my job.”

“What if something happens to you?”

The fear in his voice nearly breaks me. I pull him against my chest.

“Then there are people in this pack who will protect all three of you. Uncle Rylan. Auntie Selena. Paige. Milo. Piper. You are surrounded by people who love you.”

Damian is quiet against me.

“I still want to train.”

I close my eyes. Of course he does.

I kiss the top of his head. “Then we'll train.”

He pulls back. “More?”

“More.”

His shoulders straighten.

“But you're still allowed to be a pup.”

“Okay.”

“I mean it.”

“I know.”

I narrow my eyes. He gives me the same innocent expression his mother used whenever she absolutely did not intend to listen.

Fuck.

By the time everyone is dressed, Arian needs another bottle.