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The time had come for the hard truths, the things she needed to get straight.
“I mean it. But if someone here scares you, don’t let them see it.”
Her gaze hit his, eyes narrowing. “You said—”
“I know what I said.” He shoved a hand through his hair. “Intimidation tactics are a test. I’m hoping people know better than to do that right now, but be prepared.”
“Kodiak—”
“And this is most important of all,” he said. “You need to follow any instructions we give you, even if you don’t understand them. We’re trying to keep you safe.”
She nodded, her breath catching harshly in her throat. It was impressive how well she was holding it together, despite everything. Most wouldn’t.
But he was fast learning she wasn’t most. She had the right stuff to be part of the pack, if that was something she’d want in the future.
He had to give her that choice, and she just might walk when this was done.
“I know you’ve got questions, but there’s no time right now.” Kodiak could feel his team coming closer through the pack connection. His time with Tamaska had run out.
“What if I refuse to go with you?”
Kodiak’s blood surged. “Don’t you dare, or you’ll be out fighting the vampires by yourself. I wouldn’t be able to do anything to help you.”
Her face paled as she processed his blunt words. “That isn’t a choice.”
“No, I guess it’s not.”
She swallowed. “Unless I refuse and walk out the door.”
He nodded tightly. “Unless you do that.”
“I won’t refuse.”
“Good. Come on, everyone’s going to be here soon.” He breathed a silent sigh of relief and guided her through a door down a narrow corridor. After its initial construction, the large building had grown as the pack added new rooms with each passing decade.
Tamaska’s steps slowed, and he wanted to reassure her. There wasn’t much more he could tell her now. He had to face his pack and ensure that his team would fall into line. If they did, it would be easy to make the others follow their lead.
“Do you want me to get you anything?” Kodiak asked her when they entered the empty meeting room.
“Just you.” Her voice was soft.
He smiled. “If only.” He thought of stealing another kiss, but he detected his team nearby. It wouldn’t be well-received if he was caught kissing a human in their meeting room, and before he’d met Tamaska, he’d have no doubt felt the same. No need to upset any of them even more.
Besides, he didn’t have the time to indulge in the pleasures of her, and no one had the luxury to nurse hurt feelings or rampage.
“What is she doing here?” asked Ash, hugging her laptop tight against her chest.
Kodiak shot Ash a look as he inhaled slowly, waiting for her response. There wasn’t much of one. Just the questioning look.
“She’s in need of our help,” said Kodiak carefully.
“I’m Tamaska.”
Kodiak’s breath caught a little. This could make or break the situation. And the courage it took for Tamaska to step forward like that. The cost.
Ash tilted her head to the side, looking Tamaska up and down. Her wolf rose close to the surface. It wanted to know more about the human that had entered the safety of their clubhouse. Maybe more than Ash did.
And Tamaska, though a small tremor ran through her, stood her ground.
