Ridge

I snort, because he’s got to know the answer to that question could fill a fucking book. And he isn’t even aware of everything that happened after Lawson’s challenge yesterday.

So I just shrug one shoulder, looking out over the horizon as it begins to lighten. “Still here.”

“That you are.” He nods to himself, staring out toward the forest just like I am. “I’m glad to see it. That mate of yours. She sure is something.”

I tense slightly. I can’t quite tell from his tone whether “something” is good or bad, and brace myself for his judgment.

As if he can read my thoughts, he grins, nudging...