Blacktail Deer Plateau There might be coffee

Although he still didn't trust Fireblaze and her seemingly magical abilities, he replied, "Well, I appreciate that." Perhaps he was simply jealous that she was so damn successful, whereas he was apparently subjected to the typical statistic of failing as often as he succeeded.

Her straightforward question caught him by surprise. "'Used to'? Fireblaze, we've met a total of twice. I've barely had time to formulate an opinion of you. It takes a great deal of time to earn my respect and friendship. Ask anyone here; they'll tell you." The Alpha paused, then added, "If I disliked you, you wouldn't be here, believe me."

Her comment about his qualities as Alpha and friend threw him for a loop, as just as he barely knew her, she scarcely knew him. They certainly weren't friends yet, so he didn't know what to say. He opted to say nothing at all.