Samantha watched in horror as Logan and Max fought, their snarls and growls filling the air. She didn't know how to help Logan, and she was terrified that he would be hurt.
But as she watched, she realized that Logan was more powerful than Max. He was a skilled fighter, and he quickly gained the upper hand. Max was no match for him, and it wasn't long before Logan had him pinned to the ground.
Logan let out a fierce growl, letting Max know that he had won. Max lay on the ground, his eyes full of fear and defeat.
"I yield," Max said, his voice trembling. "I accept my punishment, alpha."
Logan shifted back into his human form and looked at Max with a mixture of anger and pity. "You have betrayed your pack and your alpha," he said, his voice stern. "You must be punished for your crimes."
Max nodded, his eyes downcast. "I understand, alpha," he said. "I am ready to face my punishment."
Logan turned to the rest of his pack. "Max will be banished from the pack," he said, his voice echoing through the clearing. "He is no longer one of us. Let this be a lesson to all of you. Betrayal will not be tolerated in our pack."
The rest of the pack nodded, their eyes full of respect and loyalty. Samantha felt a wave of relief wash over her, knowing that Logan had protected her and his pack from Max's threats.
Logan turned to Samantha and took her hand, his eyes filled with love and concern. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice soft.
Samantha nodded, tears of gratitude filling her eyes. "I'm okay," she said, her voice shaking. "Thanks to you."
Logan pulled her into a hug, and she felt his warmth and strength surround her. "I'll always protect you, Samantha," he whispered in her ear. "I love you more than anything in this world."
Samantha's heart swelled with love and happiness. She knew that their relationship would still be difficult, but she was willing to face any challenge as long as she was with Logan. She had finally found her place in the world, in the arms of her mate, the lone wolf.