Training with an Opponent

 Training with an Opponent

Bella stood in the open training grounds, her muscles taut with anticipation. The air was crisp with the scent of pine and damp earth, the early morning sun barely peeking over the horizon. Around her, warriors sparred, their growls and grunts filling the space. But her attention was locked on one man—Damian.

He stood with his arms crossed, his dark eyes scanning her with the same disinterest he might give to a mundane task.

"This is a waste of time," Damian muttered under his breath. "You're not built for this. Go back before you get hurt."

Bella straightened her shoulders, fists clenched. "I'm not here for your approval. I'm here to win."

Damian smirked, the corners of his lips curling with amusement. "Win? You think a few days of training will make you an Alpha? That's not how it works."

"Then teach me," she said, unwavering. "Unless you're afraid I'll prove you wrong."