21 Chapter 21: Preparations

“Holy cr*p,” Darren cried. “What the heck are you doin’ here?” he said as him and Sawyer met halfway around the bar and embraced.

Sawyer patted him on the back during their hug and pulled back, keeping his hands on Darren’s forearms. “Well, someone convinced me to get out of the house for once.” He gestured towards Waverly, who gave Darren a small wave.

“I knew I’d be seein’ you again,” Darren said, wagging his finger in the air at her. “How’d you do it?”

Waverly snickered. “It took a lot of convincing, but I told him how much the Crimson Shadows need him and thought a trip into town might drive the point home.”

Sawyer assessed her. “You tricked me.”

Waverly smirked and shrugged her shoulders. Darren turned back to Sawyer, his face thoughtful.

“She’s right though, Sawyer. Things haven’t been the same without ya. We’re together, united by our loyalty to you, but we need our Alpha. A pack—”