Page 97 of Bonding with the Beta

Kayleigh:

You’re a lifesaver. I love you!

Evie:

Yeah, I’m pretty great

30

KAYDEN

“Look what the cat dragged in,” Sebastian murmurs without looking up from the desk as I walk into Jaxon’s office.

I exhale a long breath. I know Jaxon is probably angry at me for bailing yesterday on that important meeting, but being with Kayleigh was something I needed to do. I would never have forgiven myself if I drove home, knowing what she was thinking.

“Where is Jaxon?” I ask, ignoring Bash’s comment.

“With Ava and Aurora, probably.”

A curse word slips from my lips. I walk to the desk and stare down at a black folder in the corner. I pick it up and flick through the paperwork to find notes from yesterday’s meeting with the district board.

I slump back into the chair opposite Bash and get reading on the new policies and rules we must abide by to keep ourselves and others in our district safe.

An hour later, the door to the office opens, and Jaxon emerges. He stares directly at me and narrows his eyes. “Glad you finally made it home, Kayden.”

I don’t bite at his bitter tone. “Just catching up.”

“Good, because those policies are excruciatingly painful to read.”

My lip quirks. “Already on it.”

“Sebastian,” Jaxon’s voice booms through the office much louder than needed. I glance up from the folder to look between them. “I’ve read through some of the feedback slips from training. They’re not looking good.”

Bash huffs and sighs. “Let me guess, I’m being too harsh?”

“Mostly, yes.”

“How will they learn if I’m being easy on them?”

“Because everyone is at different levels,” I say. “I know for a fact some people might appreciate additional training sessions with those at similar fitness levels to help them gain confidence in pack training.”

Jaxon folds his arms over his chest. “We don’t have time for extra training with everyone’s responsibilities.”

“I’ll find the time.” I stand from the chair and place the folder on the desk. “I said I’d help Evan. If anyone else wants to join, including those who gave feedback, I’ll be willing to help because it will benefit us all. It’ll make us stronger.”

“You’re going to find the time?” His brow quirks.

I nod once. “Yes. I said I’d make it up to you, and I want to prove how much I care about this role by caring about those in the pack who need our help.”

Jaxon rolls his tongue over his bottom lip. “Alright.” He drops his arms to his sides. “Fine, but it’s your responsibility.”

“I know.”

He watches me for a long moment. “Don’t let it get in the way of your other duties.”

“Thanks for your concern.” I flash him a grin. “But I’ve got this.”

“Oh, Goddess,”Evan groans. “My legs are burning.”

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