She paused, confused by my change in direction. I took another step towards her. "Because clearly, you forget what happens in the woods, Gina. You forget what male wolves do in the woods when they are angry and have needs. When there is no one else around to stop them."

She swallowed, and suddenly, I watched the rage start to simmer in her eyes. Fear filled her expression, and she bit her cheek.

"You want to fuck around and find out to be my guest, but when you get pinned to the ground, and another man fucks you, and not a sweet fuck either, Gina. He will take what he wants, and you will end up taking it; however, he decided to give it to you. When that happens, don't come crying to me."

She took a step back, but I took another forward. She shook her head. "That…"

I stepped further into her space. I could smell the fear on her and the way her throat bobbed. "Are you trying to say that doesn't happen? You can't because you know that what I say is true."

She swallowed, her back hitting the wall, and I stopped in front of her. "I warned you that we had a dispute with the other pack, and I told you not to go near the damn woods! I didn’t say it because I wanted you to challenge me if I was lying or not.

Her throat bobbed, and I could see the way she sucked her cheeks in, biting on them. Had she thought I exaggerated about the rip between the packs? Did she not take my warning as seriously as she should?

"But you know, you're right. I shouldn't be trying to protect you. You're a strong, independent woman who knows best. So, fuck around and find out, Gina."

I watched tears build up, hating it. I didn't like using scare tactics, but maybe it would help her understand. She had no idea what waited in the woods for her—none of us did—and that was the dangerous part—that was the part she should be scared about.

"You're a terrible person," she whispered.

"Why, because I'm being honest? You don't think someone would pin you down in the woods and strip you naked? You don't think someone would thrust his dick into you even if you were crying? You don’t think someone enjoys doing that to women?"

Tears fell from her face now, and she looked away. "Stop." She shook her head, wiping her eyes. "Just…stop."

"Not until you get it," I said softer. "Get the fact that a man could and would rape you. You have no idea what lurks in those woods."

"I get it!" she whispered, wiping at more tears. "I'm a fragile wolf, and that's all I'll ever be."

I scowled, knowing I'd pushed too hard. I’d crossed a line I didn’t want to cross.

I reached for her, cupping her face. I suddenly couldn't stand the fear in her eyes. I wanted her scared but not terrified. I just wanted her to know how dangerous this all was. "No, that's not what I'm saying."

She started to cry, and I suddenly wished I could take my words back. Seeing her being cocky was better than watching her fall apart.

I rubbed my thumb, wiping at her tears. "Gina, you are a strong wolf. You have overcome so much and proved yourself ten times over. There were wolves who had more muscle and less to prove than you. But you have grown. You've made a living for yourself when everyone said you couldn't." I leaned closer. "But you are still a woman. And there are times when you need to understand that even if you're strong, you shouldn't be alone. You shouldn't be alone in this house so close to the border when we know what lurks on the other side. I was serious when I told you what happened. And I don’t want it to happen again."

She sniffled. "Why do you care so much? I'm sure by now you've repaid what you owe me."

I would never make up for what I'd done to her, and I would spend my life trying to. My wolf growled, wanting to be closer to her. I caged her against the wall and sighed. "Because you’re my mate, and I only want what's best for you, even if it's not me."

We both knew what we were to each other, but neither of us really spoke about it. I had rejected her all those years ago. But her eyes softened at the word mate.

"So, stop crying," I said, wiping her eyes once more. "Please, I can't stand to see you cry."

"Then maybe you shouldn't put those images in my head," she whispered, and I could see the fear in her eyes again.

I didn't like the thought. The thought of another wolf putting his hands on her, pinning her down as he took her. I knew Gina would fight, but some wolves were just stronger no matter who they were against. And if Logan was desperate, he could end up killing her.

"It got you to understand," I said softer, pressing my nose against hers.

Her body stiffened slightly, and her breath hitched as I placed my hands on her hips. The world seemed to freeze for a second before I softly brushed my lips against hers—a small apology.

"Does that make it better?" I asked, kissing her cheek next.

She slowly nodded, her fingers wrapping around the hem of my shirt. "A little."

I smirked, placing a kiss on her neck. "And does this help?" I asked, pulling a hand up, tugging at her collar, and placing a kiss there.

She nodded, her fingers tightening.