Silvertip Mountain The end of the line

Steady listened as Ezekiel spoke, seemingly very understanding of his situation. He was very right on one count- that Steady had a good group of wolves who could handle themselves. He was getting to know each of them more and more, and with each passing day he appreciated them more. But, it was the fear of loosing them that really got to him. You're right, I know. Sometimes the fear of failure is a lot to handle, and I can't help but feel that if I'm not managing closely, some might take that as I'm not managing at all, he admitted softly. He had always waited for wolves to come to him with any problems or concerns they might have. But, that was before the life of the pack rested on him. He was only as good as his followers were. It's kind of funny, when you think about it... It isn't anyone not doing their part that has me worried. It's them not being happy here. As a wolf who never dreamed of being more than a Beta, Alpha was a tough role, though one he was still thankful for. I wonder, sometimes, if Fitz felt the same as I do. I never thought to ask what it was like leading a pack, considering I thought I'd be his Beta forever. 

He nodded when Ezekiel advised him to talk to Niita. I told her how I felt, but I also said I never wanted to hold her back from whatever she wanted to do, he replied. He would never forgive himself if he held Niita back, and he imagined she would resent him one day if he did. Their budding relationship was still new and fresh, and they were both young wolves who had their whole lives ahead of them. But, Steady had always been wise beyond his years, and he was ready to settle down. But, he would never ask Niita to do that before she was ready.