The Strength Within

Darius sat at his desk, elbows resting heavily on its surface, his hands buried in his hair in a gesture of despair. He was consumed by fear for what was to come — the thought of losing his mate weighed heavily on his mind. How could he protect someone who wasn't fully versed in his shifter life, let alone his warlock side? Where did he even begin?

Sitting on the other side of the desk, Prius leaned back with his right leg crossed over his knee. He observed his Alpha succumbing to his emotions and offered words of reassurance. "Give John some credit," he said gently. "He escaped a chasing wolf pack, saved Annie, and shifted alone for the first time. He's proven himself to be resilient and capable."

Darius shook his head, feeling overwhelmed by his own emotions. "He's an emotional wreck," he whispered, recalling the moments when he held John's trembling body as he sobbed.

"And that means what?" Prius countered, his voice firm but compassionate. "I'm sure none of us would have coped w