Lyra's POV
The gymnasium buzzed with hostile energy as wolves packed every available space. Their jeers and taunts followed me like a storm cloud as I approached the single sparring mat that dominated the center of the room. Someone had buffed it to a mirror shine, making it gleam under the harsh fluorescent lights. Xander stood dead center, arms crossed, waiting for me.
I kept my chin level and my gaze sharp, meeting every hostile stare that dared challenge me. Several wolves stepped into my path, trying to intimidate me with their size and snarls, but I refused to flinch. As I drew closer to the mat, two figures emerged from the crowd to flank Xander.
Killian and Ash.
Of course he would side against me, my inner voice sneered bitterly.
Why did you think otherwise? I shot back. Being fated mates means nothing if he sees me as a burden. A human without a wolf probably disgusts him.
