Page 75 of Savage Games

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Naomi

Lynn turns to look at me, a horrified expression on her face.

MADDIE:Oh god, Naomi.No.You can’t do it.

Even Callum looks at me with concern.

My gaze flicks toward Brad, only to find him staring straight at me.

He knew this challenge was coming, and he's been planning for it.He’s so pleased with himself, it’s sickening.

Blake steps forward, his expression dour.

"Per traditional hunt rules, you may use any means necessary, human or wolf, and whatever natural abilities you possess to your advantage."

That means wolves are allowed to interfere with other competitors.

Different strategies race through my mind.

Do I go for broke, use my pace to get as far ahead as I can, and hope the alphas get delayed by picking off the others?Or do I use stealth to hide my tracks and stick to the shadows, making sure I don’t get involved in a fight with the other male wolves?

"Those who are caught," Dean adds, "will be eliminated from the competition.However," he pauses, and something in his tone makes my skin prickle."They’re not completely out.”

The whispers resume as everyone tries to guess what he means.My hands sweat as I focus on his words, trying to make sure I don’t miss any important details.

“Eliminated contestants may join the hunt if they wish, pursuing those still in the running."

My blood runs cold.By the end, the last wolves will be greatly outnumbered if every beaten competitor joins the hunt.

It's brilliant for testing a future alpha's ability to handle multiple threats, but it's also the perfect opportunity for those with grudges to gang up and take out their frustrations on other competitors.

On Wyatt.

If he shows up at all.

The thought sends another stab through me.The mate bond pulses urgently now, almost painfully, and I have to stop myself from pressing a hand to my chest.

NAOMI:Maddie, tell Lynn something’s definitely wrong with Wyatt.Someone needs to find him… now.

Brad's gaze catches mine, and a bitter smile stretches across his face.Then, without warning, his voice slithers into my mind.

BRAD:Looks like your protector won't be joining us today.What a shame.

Brad's enjoying this far too much, enjoying my unease.I stiffen, mental barriers slamming up, but not quickly enough.

BRAD:Did you really think I wouldn't notice?

His tone is mocking.

I refuse to respond, keeping my expression neutral despite the chill spreading through my veins.

BRAD:The way you look at him, then the way you flinch when I touch you...It was obvious.Though I must say, I didn't expect you to stoop so low.A rogue?Really, Naomi?I thought you had better taste.

I keep my thoughts locked down tight, refusing to give him the satisfaction of a response.But inside, my wolf snarls and paces, desperate to tear into him for insulting my bond with Wyatt.

As Dean continues explaining the rules, I push forward to the front of our group, waiting for a pause before speaking.

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