Redhawk Caldera friends become family

He pulled out more excuses, and Fox pulled back, hurt. "I want a leader's children," Fox retorted. Did he think her that stupid? Did Shrike think that she wasn't aware of what would happen if they did this? She was very, very aware. It was why she had wanted him, needed him. Love had nothing to do with it. It hadn't when she had coupled with Peregrine the first time, and maybe not any of the following times. Love was a myth, as far as Fox was concerned, and even those she thought she might love had died.

"Do this for me, and lead by my side, Shrike. I know you're capable." Hell, she and Peregrine had even discussed what a great leader Shrike would make. He was smart, strong, and Fox couldn't think of a single wolf who would object to it. Except, apparently, Shrike himself. And if he wasn't willing to lead by her side when she was in need of it, what good was he to her? To the pack? To her possible future children?