Page 117 of Challenged Mate
“He was securing his own bloodline’s strength, and nothing more,” Stanley countered.
“You’re delusional,” Chase scoffed, shaking his head. “Completely, and totally, delusional. You know covens view us as abominations. Graystone is no different. The dirt underneath his shoes is more valuable to him than you, and yet you help him.”
“Gentlemen, gentlemen.” Hugh tsked, finally deciding to interrupt. “Surely, there is no need to bicker. Our agreement has been struck. In good faith, I will untie Hunter and let him cross the ward. Then, Blair joins me.”
“Agreed,” I called out before anyone could speak.
Hugh gave Stanley a nod.
Stanley moved behind Hunter and made quick work of the ropes around his wrists. As the rope fell to the ground, I noticed an odd gleam coming off the twine. I squinted, then sucked in a breath as I noticed the silver filaments woven through the ropes.
Bastards.
Hunter stumbled forward with help from Stanley’s shove.
I moved before anyone else and met my friend at the ward, catching him by his elbows as he made it across.
“Blair,” he croaked. “What are you doing?”
“Saving your ass,” I smiled softly. I glanced at the raw skin around his wrists and winced. “Are you all right?”
“I’m fine.” His hands gripped my arms, eyes still wide with fear. “But you must listen to me. You can’t go with Graystone. You need to stay in Wilds territory.”
“I don’t have a choice,” I murmured, hoping my soft, confident tone would reassure my frantic friend. “We made a deal.”
“Screw your deal.” His breaths grew ragged. “Graystone is not to be trusted. He let me into his coven’s lands, just to capture me to manipulate you.”
I dipped my head. “I know, Hunter. But trust me, it’s taken care of. Hugh can’t hurt me. Not without hurting himself. I’m going to help him with something, and then I’ll be back here, safe and sound. I promise.”
“Blair,” he groaned my name. His grip on my arms tightened. Then without warning, he drew me into his chest and wrapped his arms around me. My wolf bristled at being so close to a male who wasn’t Asher, but I reminded her Hunter was our friend. He’d been with us our entire life, and the Mother only knew what he went through with the Graystone coven—all to help me.
Into my hair, Hunter muttered, “You’re too stubborn. Always have been. It’s one of the things I love about you.”
I returned his embrace. “Stephanie is here. You’re both welcome to stay for as long as you like.” I knew Asher wouldn’t mind the offer. “You’ll be safe here behind the Wilds Pack’s wards.”
Hunter squeezed me. “Watch your back with Graystone. Be on your guard.”
Before I could reply, he stepped away.
I didn’t know why until I saw him staring over my shoulder.
I turned at met Asher’s stare.
My mate was worried; he didn’t try to hide it.
But he wouldn’t try to change my mind. We’d made the deal. I would follow through.
A silencing barrier fell around us, encompassing everyone on this side of the wards. Asher didn’t bother with the visual block this time.
"Do you have your phone?"
I tapped my back pocket and nodded. “Yes.”
“Good. Call me the moment you arrive. And text often. I’ll worry otherwise.”
“Done.”
Kayla appeared at his side. Her brown eyes gleamed with tears. “You better be careful, Blair. And get back here the moment you hold up your end of the bargain.”
