ʀᴀғᴇ ᴀúʟʟᴀ ᴀ ʟᴀ sᴏᴍʙʀᴀ ᴅᴇ (maginus) wrote in repose,
Re: Woods: Holly and Rafe
There was definitely something about him that was— the only word that came to mind was off. Neither Rafe nor the wolf could put his finger on it (or paw, more the point, in the case of the latter) but it was certainly something to be aware of. Something to bear in mind.
Even if Rafe hadn't been trained to always keep himself sharp and alert the wolf would never have stood for anything less, and in essence it was almost like having someone watching your six, albeit not in the literal sense. His senses were so sharp that he would pick up on most things that were going to try and get the drop on him, even if he didn't see them coming. Add to that fast reflexes and several years' experience and military training and it took a lot to make Rafe feel uneasy. Beyond all of that though it was important, vitally so for his kind, to convey confidence at all times. Anything less was inviting attack or challenge. He didn't pick up on any violent intent or telling tension in the man who had approached but that something that he couldn't identify kept Rafe from writing him off as harmless.
In Repose, it was best not to take anything for granted. If this whole situation with Audrey had taught him nothing else, it had taught him that much at least.
"I'm guessing I'm not the only one." He didn't need to phrase it as a question, and that much was obvious. Whoever this guy was he knew about Audrey, what had happened to her and where she had been found, and unless he was somehow responsible for it why else would he be out here? Rafe trusted his nose enough to be certain of the fact that this young man hadn't been involved, at least not directly.