Jack took the night patrol shift right after the mess in the confinement pool. He said it was fine, he needed the air, and his wolf was restless enough to chew through a door if he stayed inside. I watched him leave from the end of the hall, his posture calm, steps even, shoulders rolled loose the way they are when he is trying very hard not to look like he is vibrating with adrenaline. He lifted two fingers in a lazy salute before turning the corner.
A second later his mind brushed ours.
Rolling north perimeter. All clear.
Beau answered first. Copy. Let me know if you need backup.
I added, Try not to annoy any trees. They have had a long day.
He snorted over the link and then the connection faded into the usual low hum.
Beau and I returned to my room. He paced behind me like a nervo
