How Much More

Fiona stood up straight, pulling away from Landon. She turned and looked up at him with rising suspicion.

“You said you weren’t interested in being Summer’s Alpha,” she said.

“I’m not,” he stated.

Fiona kept Landon’s gaze, searching for any sign of misdirection or dishonesty, but found only the reassuring warmth he continued offering her.

Landon took a deep breath.

“Your pack needs an Alpha,” he said. “They won’t last much longer without one.”

“I know,” she said, turning away.

Landon touched her chin, gently turning her to face him.

“Do not take offense to what I ask next,” he said gently. “I am only trying to help.”

Fiona let out a slow breath and nodded.

Landon looked into her eyes and nodded.

“If you knew Caleb was gone,” he asked gently, “would you have difficulty accepting a new Alpha?”

Fiona swallowed and closed her eyes. His voice was kind and warm, even though the words he said stung her heart. She shook her head.