Page 92 of Midnight Moon
Hunter’s attention swung back to his father when he began discussing the various evasive maneuvers that could be used during the fight.
It was only the awareness that we weren’t alone that kept me from pulling my hair out.
Hunter, in contrast, vibrated with eagerness. His wolf continued to push to the surface, turning his irises a tawny brown, ready to do battle.
Familiar guilt pressed on me. If Hunter knew what we were up against, he wouldn’t be so excited… or hopeful.
A horn sounded in the distance.
“That’s the call to report to the combat ring,” Beta Nathan supplied. He patted his son’s back, then the pair lead the way.
I used the short walk to get control of myself. Emotions were distracting, and I couldn’t afford to be distracted.
By the time we arrived at the field enclosed by wooden rail fencing, I felt more balanced.
A crowd surrounded the combat ring, each person vying for the best spot to watch the upcoming matches. Our group approached the enclosed space. It was as long as a football field and just as wide.
Beta Nathan gave us one last “Good luck,” then moved to join his daughter and wife. Stephanie and Angelina stood, huddled together for warmth. Seeing my gaze, my best friend untucked her hands from her jacket pockets and gave me two thumbs up.
I managed a weak smile and wave in response.
Hunter touched my elbow. I looked up. He tilted his head to the center of the ring where Alpha Kurt and his council waited. Tyler and the Coastal beta, Jasper, were already there.
Heeding Hunter’s silent command, he and I ducked under the wood post.
With my chin held high, I walked towards the group with confidence. I might be nervous as hell, but I’d be damned if I showed it.
Hunter kept pace with me, puffing out his chest, showcasing his impressive breadth. My keen hearing picked up more than one appreciative remark.
Unable to resist, I shot my partner a smirk, knowing he had to have heard the females.
Hunter didn’t share my amusement. Instead, his expression turned serious. He didn’t care about their admiring comments, and his eyes said thatmyadmiration was the only one he wanted.
I bit the inside of my chin and looked away. Thankfully, we reached the center of the ring, and the awkwardness dissipated.
Alpha Kurt dipped his head in greeting. We returned the gesture.
“Are both packs ready?” The hosting alpha asked, looking between me and Tyler.
“Yes,” we replied in unison.
“Very good. Remember, the match will last an hour, unless one pack submits before the time limit is reached. All fighters must remain in wolf form for the duration of the fight, and you all must stay within the confines of this ring, or you will be disqualified. Understood?”
All four of us agreed to the rules.
Alpha Kurt clapped his hands together. He raised his voice, sounding like the announcer of a caged fight, as he bellowed, “Competitors, call on your wolves. The first match begins at the sound of the horn.”
The crowd cheered in anticipation.
Hunter and I jogged to the left side of the field. The Coastal Pack moved to the right.
Hunter removed his clothes quickly, unbothered by the nearby crowd watching on. I forced away my modesty and did the same, but I left my bra and panties on. They would be destroyed during the shift, but I’d rather buy a new set than expose myself to so many shifters who were not my packmates.
In less than five seconds, my white wolf’s paw pads rubbed the ground, getting a feel for the traction on the damp grass.
We’ve got this, Blair.Hunter said into my mind, pacing the space in front of me, staring at our opponents across the field.Just focus on outlasting Jasper. Only strike if the opportunity is too good to ignore. Otherwise, keep your distance.
My fur bristled.
