Page 52 of Challenged Mate
No, what I needed was a time machine.
Last night, I’d experienced a huge error in judgement—one caused by the strength of the fated bond between us. I’d let it overcome me, even going so far as to believe, if only for a few moments, that Asher and I would find a way to be together.
That we were soulmates...
That we were worth fighting for.
Obviously, I’d underestimated how Asher’s return would affect me.
Even now, everything within me yearned for the chance to be with him—to throw myself into his arms, consequences or no.
And that is exactly what kept my feet planted in the meadow.
That, and Asher’s regretful expression, which haunted me anytime I so much as blinked.
“Let’s take a break for the day. We can spar again tomorrow.”
“No.” I punctuated my reply with a display of power. Gold light surrounded my hands. It was easier to call on than ever. My tumultuous emotions brought the magic to the surface of my skin, and it poked and prodded me with eagerness. It wanted to be released.
And I needed to blow off some steam.
Chase’s irises flashed yellow-green. His wolf craved the challenge, and his wolf’s desire to fight warred with Chase’s desire to stand down.
I made the decision for him.
Remembering the steps Kayla taught me for releasing power from my palms, I held my arms out in front of me and pushed the golden magic out, picturing a golden orb flying from my hands.
The image became real. The glowing ball of golden power flew towards Chase. He dropped onto the ground before it hit his chest. The power traveled over his head and fizzled out before it collided with anything.
Chase pushed himself back up. His chest rumbled. “That was dirty.”
“That was clean,” I countered.
He shook his head. “Fine. Have it your way. But I reserve the right to use magic to deflect your power.”
“Fine by me.” What could I say? I was a glutton for punishment.
Chase didn’t hesitate. He charged. I shot three orbs at him. He dodged each one. His torso lowered and his arms spread out, prepared to tackle me.
I spun to the left at the last moment. He ran right past me, but turned around with a snarl and charged again.
I managed to release another orb before he was on me. It didn’t land.
I lifted my forearms in front of my face to block Chase’s strikes. My bones ached from the impact, but I was used to that kind of pain.
I’d spent my childhood sparring with the strongest males in the Summit Pack, and I’d taken plenty of hits as I learned how to deflect their attacks, ultimately using my skills to defeat them. Stealth and agility were my allies.
I ducked to avoid a punch, staying on the balls of my feet. I rotated my torso and popped up with a power-coated punch to Chase’s ribcage. I hopped backwards before he could retaliate.
“Nice one,” he bit out, sparing a quick glance at his charred shirt. Kayla told me my power could manifest into many different elements, but fire was the only one I’d managed to utilize with relative ease.
Spells and charms would allow me to use my magic for other purposes, like silencing barriers and protective wards, but I had yet to practice them.
“Thanks,” I returned, showing my appreciation by releasing a volley of strikes and kicks, utilizing my combat skills rather than my power.
Chase, as always, evaded or blocked each attack with ease. I rarely landed a hit now without the help of magic.
“Use your power, Blair!” Kayla hollered. “Knock him on his ass.”
