The Power of Being

McClain gave a slight nod, barely more than a tilt of his head, but it carried more weight than any threat could have. It wasn’t angry or smug, but a way of letting Jake and Travis walk away with an iota of pride if they were smart enough to take it. No fists, no shouting, just a man whose reputation and calm presence did the talking for him.

The charge in the air slowly faded, the fight that never happened settling into something almost respectful. McClain hadn’t needed to win anything. The outcome had already been decided the second he stepped out of his truck.