Being Sapphire. Sylvia Ryan

      Shane nodded and studied the man standing in front of him. He was grim-faced and carried an air of intimidating authority. “First, every member of the Amber Resistance believes we’re fighting for the freedom so many soldiers before us have given their lives to protect. We’re all willing to give our life for our beliefs. This is going to turn very ugly, very fast. So if you’re just hanging around with Jordan to get your dick wet, I’d take a moment to reconsider your plan. Second point.” He held two fingers out in front of him. “You are subordinate to Jordan. Outside resistance business you can behave as you wish, but when it comes to making decisions and following orders, she is the general, you are the grunt. Do you have a problem with that?”

      Shane glared at the man standing in his personal space. Because of the class they’d both taken, Xander knew he was a dominant, knew he’d have difficulty giving up control. “No. I’ll respect her authority.”

      Xander nodded. “Point number three, and this is the most important one so listen closely. If you or your brother are spying for the Gov, I’m giving you the opportunity to walk away, right now, no questions asked. Later, if I find out you’re really not on our side, I will kill the both of you.” Shane watched a muscle work in the Xander’s jaw before he spoke again. “It would be easy enough. Patrick’s a sitting duck in that bright fishbowl every night. And if Jordan gets hurt because you’re a traitor,” Xander growled “I’ll kill your fucking parents too.” He leaned in toward Shane until they were in each other’s face. “Are we clear?”

      Shane nodded once and then gritted between his teeth, “Crystal.”

      He didn’t like the insinuations and was not accustomed to being treated as if he were under the authority of any man. But Xander, he’d indulge. They were similar, running neck and neck on the dominant-male scale.

      “Good. You’re her shadow until she or I says differently. Keep her alive.”

      “Don’t worry about her. She’ll be fine during the meets with both me and my brother watching out for her.”

      Xander nodded. “I’ll see you tomorrow then.”

      He walked away from Shane without another word. The man was a force to be reckoned with, but needed help with his people skills because now, after the threats, Shane was pissed off.