The metal ring resounded over the training field, loud and unbroken, an iron heartbeat. Troops marched with disciplined exactness under Damien's stern gaze, their muscles tensed, their sweat shimmering in the sun. He moved among them like a tempest restrained, adjusting their stance, illustrating manoeuvres, pushing them forward with every shouted order.
To everyone else, he was the very symbol of strength. The Alpha, unattainable. But Evelyn, waiting at the edge of the field, observed what others did not.
She caught the subtle stumble in his gait when he thought no one was looking. She heard the rapid gulp of air when his chest constricted in the heat of a fight. He covered it hastily, straightening up, continuing to press the training as though nothing had happened. But Evelyn's heart hurt every time, terror frightening her more than any foe's sword ever could.
