Page 50 of Moon Claimed

She smirked.Hatred won.“You’ll need to gear up to protect yourself. I’d be on speed dial, of course.”

“That’s why I need to be at the outskirts. Though, I’m really not lying, I need this for myself too.”

She kicked at the ground. “I know.”

“Are you sure? Because you managed to make those words sound likefuck you.”

She snorted. “It’s a skill. I’m sorry. I keep biting off your head without meaning to.”

This wasn’t just temper. This was her truly worrying about me. And more. “I can handle anything the Luthers throw at me. You know that, right? I’vegotthis head stewardship under control. I’m almost bored.”

Her head lowered and the movement only reminded me of a werewolf’s submission.

“It’s just that...” She bit her lip. “I could do it too. That’s the problem.”

I stiffened, and Rhona shook her head, holding up her hands. “It’s a daddy issue. That’s all. I’m taking it out on you. I have this need to prove myself to show him what a mistake he made. All the while, Iagreethat he made the best choice in you. I would choose you too. Seriously, don’t worry. It’s fucked up.”

Gripping her arm, I said fiercely. “You would have made agreathead steward, Rhona. Don’t ever doubt it. We know Herc didn’t mean for things to come out this way, but please don’t doubt that he believed in you. You could lead the stewards in a heartbeat. I know it. You know it.”

Her eyes shone with unshed tears. “I’m being silly. It’s nothing.”

Wounds like this weren’t nothing. I really hoped she came to terms with this one day.

“Also, ouch.” She tugged free. “Your grip is strong considering you stopped training.”

Oops. “I want to start again soon. Once I have things in order. I feel better after Iron. Give me a few months, and I’ll be an old hat at this.” I remembered my real reason for this talk. “Listen, I want you to do something. I have a feeling you’ll be happy about it.”

Rhona’s brows climbed. “Do I get to kill Sascha Greyson?”

My stomach lurched and I gritted my teeth against the voodoo before forcing a smirk. “Well, it’s a start.”

10

I heaved the last suitcase from Ella F onto the small table in the kitchen.Dusty. And worn.

I didn’t care.

This run-down cabin was officially my safety net.

“We’re going to have so many parties here.” Wade burst inside with my cleaning supplies from the car.

“Hey,” I greeted him. “Didn’t hear you pull up.”

“Walked here,” he said. “You’re really isolated. Are you sure that won’t bother you?”

The full moon would begin tonight, and—impossibly—I could feel energy stirring under my blood like a beast waking from slumber. I just hoped the change happened tonight and not during the gridtomorrownight.

I crossed the creaking floorboards. “Wade, listen. About the other night when I yelled at you. I’m sorry.”

He pursed his lips. “What was it about?”

“Everything. And nothing I want to get into. I just needed a moment alone.”

Wade pulled me into his arms. “Being a hermit out here will give you a lot more of that. Forgiven, baby girl.”

“Thank you.”

“Do you want me to stay with you tonight?”

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