Page 9 of Rejected Mate

"Let's get this mess cleaned up then head out. I have a feeling a moonlight stroll would be good for both of us."

For the next hour, we cleaned the living room, and there was something soothing about doing so with Winter.

We finished and I followed behind Winter to the kitchen. The big, overhead lights had been left off and the room was dark.

"Let's go get some fresh air." Winter smiled, and I nodded but chewed my bottom lip, worry over Husk pressing on my mind.

We slipped on our shoes and headed to the front door when it opened and Winter tensed, as if preparing for a fight.

Sky stepped inside, his face grim and Winter let out a breath, the tension in his muscles easing some.

"Husk is stable. They gave him a sedative because he kept trying to leave."

"Can we see him?" I squeezed Winter's hand. His fingers entwined with mine, his thumb sliding across my knuckles.

"They won't let any visitors in this time of night." Sky rolled his shoulders back and grunted as he sat down on the plush couch. "Husk will sleep till morning. Where are you two headed?"

"Out." Winter pulled me to my feet, his eyes fiery and intense. "Just wait for us here."

In the penthouse, we were sitting ducks now that my father knew I was here; he wouldn't stop until he had me. Even if he ended up coming after me himself.

I pushed aside my fear, forcing myself to enjoy the night air and Winter's company.

We strolled a few blocks to one of the neighboring parks. Winter's hand in mine and just his presence calmed me.

He led me to an area in the very back where no one would bother us. His eyes filled with worry as we sat down on the worn-out bench near the swing set and slides. The chipped paint and rust on the chains told me that this playground wasn't going to be enjoyed by children for much longer.

"I'm sorry… You know, about Husk." My throat closed up and I couldn't get any more words out.

"Shhh. It's not your fault." Winter leaned forward, bringing his lips to mine in a kiss so loving that it broke my resolve. I almost sank into him and let myself forget who I was and what I'd been through.

"Husk always does this," Winter said and pulled away, his eyes were full of hope and fear. "He never admits anything is his fault. He knew how to break this curse. We did it with Sky and yet he's being pig-headed."

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, not wanting him to see my tears. "I'm facing the things that scare me."

Winter snorted, moving off the bench onto his knees in front of me. He clasped his hands over mine, peering up at me with those bright blue eyes. "You shouldn't face your fears alone."

I hadn't expected him to say something like that and it nearly brought more tears to my eyes.

"You're right." I squeezed his hands, hoping that we could get through this together. "It's easier when you have someone by your side."

"I know." He leaned forward and kissed me lightly. "We got you. Husk will come around."

But would he? I'd never met a man or wolf as stubborn. I leaned forward, resting my hand on Winter's cheek. "I'm glad I have you."

Winter's smile widened and he kissed me again, the kiss turning hungry, hard, and possessive. He slid his hand to the back of my neck, holding me in place.

"Mmm." I moaned into his mouth, accepting his kiss and his hold on me.

Winter's hands slipped down my body, his hard frame sending heat through me.

He broke the kiss, his breathing ragged.

"What is it? Why'd you stop?" I asked between pants.

"We're not alone." Winter stood, blocking whoever was coming down the path from seeing me. Fear twisted my stomach into knots. Was it the wolves from earlier?

Winter let out a warning growl. Seconds later, Mayia peeked around an oak tree.

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