"She's a liability," Lyander snapped. "She doesn't belong on the road. Or in another pack's territory. I don't need to be worrying about someone who might trip over a branch and give us away."
Liora scoffed and stepped toward him. "Please. You're not nearly as scary as you think you are."
He turned, eyes narrowing. "I'm not here to be charming."
"No," she said smoothly, "but that's exactly why you need me."
Lyander bristled, but Henry cut in before he could argue.
"She's your balance," he said firmly. "Your blade is sharp, but even the sharpest edge breaks without control. Liora is clever, observant, and yes—unexpectedly persuasive. People will listen to her when they won't to you. She softens what you make hard."
"Quite the opposite if you know what I mean . . ." his wolf snickered in his mind.
"Shut it you!" he hissed back.
