Rees gives a long sigh as I hear Ryker take a few steps closer. "I said get your fucking hands off my mate." My concentration slips with his declaration and I have to purse my lips to hold in my reaction. I don't want Ryker in the middle of this, but I also can't help but be glad that he is here. It's as though he's returned a piece of me, and a longing that I have been trying to ignore for far too long becomes settled.
But now isn't the time. I keep my eyes closed to focus as I wait for the right moment. I need to stay silent so he doesn't notice the change in me. By merging with my wolf, Rees has a little less of a hold on me. I still feel the effects of the pull to my mate, but it has lessened just enough that I can start to think again.
"You're starting to become a real thorn in my side. I'm wondering why I ever bothered to keep you alive..." Rees mumbles to himself before answering Ryker. "She's not your mate."
"That's for her to decide," Ryker answers.
