The pack leader basically just gave his blessing for me to officially pursue Zoey. I thought I was going to have to put up a hell of an argument to even get him to listen to me.

It’s not unheard of for a werewolf to take a human mate—we’d probably die out if we didn’t—but it’s rare, and usually, the human has been around wolves for most of their lives. They aren’t outsiders, like Zoey.

What could’ve changed my stubborn brother’s mind?

“This is bullshit,” Ross growls. There’s wariness in his eyes. He thought this was a fight over him insulting my friend. Not my mate. Even the most easygoing wolf will tear out someone’s throat when it comes to protecting their partner. “How was I supposed to know?”

“Maybe you should stop being a dick to all women. Just to be safe.” This comment comes from a spectator.

I glance over to see Courtney has backed her pickup to the edge of the woods, dropped the tailgate, and unfolded a lawn chair in the bed of the truck.

She raises her beer. “Go get ’em, Warner! Rip off a limb!”

“Hey!” Ross glares at her.

She smirks right back before chanting, “Less hands, less ass grabbing! Fuck him up!”

There are snickers from some of those assembled. Mainly the females. Looks like Ross doesn’t have many fans among the women of our pack.

Challenges are rare occurrences. Too many indicate instability in a pack. I can’t help wondering how many women Ross has harassed enough to make them feel uncomfortable, but not enough for them to think it was worth a formal challenge.

I wonder how many here wish they could swap places with me.

Even more of a reason not to hold back.

Roderick raises an arm, regaining control of the crowd.

“Ignorance does not excuse your actions,” he announces. “Let this be a warning. And be thankful you face a challenge rather than a trial.”

My brother makes a slow circle, including all gathered in his cautioning. When his gaze sweeps over me, I realize his eyes have gone full black. Their depths seem unfathomable. Cosmic. Terrifying.

Note to self: remember to never piss off a pack leader.

“The challenge ends on a forfeit or a knockout. Shifting is prohibited. Commence.” Roderick steps back, clearing the space between Ross and me.

In my day-to-day life, I tease people. Not in a malicious manner. My goal is always to make others smile. Get them to laugh. Most times, I’m playful, dancing around important topics, rarely speaking in a fully serious tone.

So, people don’t tend to take me seriously.

Even with all the lead up to this challenge, I can tell from the unhurried way Ross raises his arms that he still doesn’t believe I can be anything different from the joker he’s always known.

I hit fast.