Un.Bridled (Claimed Series #2) (35 page)

Blake nodded. “We found a truck.”

“
Stole
a truck,” Fergus whispered in shame.

The beta ignored him. “We came back here to see if you or Cole showed up. I’m glad we did.” He eyed Nicolas, who had transformed back into his wolf and was making his way to the exit of the cabin. “We’ll leave as soon as you do.”

Addie stopped in Hayden’s line of sight. “Bring Cole back to us.” She leaned into Hayden’s arms and embraced her firmly. “Keep your eyes open and take care of yourself.”

When Hayden faced Nathan, the man simply folded his arms over his chest, warding off any attempt of a hug. Nonetheless, his face did soften marginally and he nodded his farewell.

“We will try to contact you as soon as we retrieve Cole.” She looked at each of them and smiled sadly. “We’ll see each other soon.”

Nodding confidently, Hayden moved past the pack, reluctant to stay behind any longer. It was difficult to leave them, but even more difficult to stay separated from Cole in such dire circumstances.

As she escaped into the frigid night, she spied Nicolas in the front yard, his dark pelt contrasting sharply with the snow-covered grounds. He sat on his haunches and gazed at her expectantly. It took her only a moment to realize he was waiting for her to lead the way.

Forcing away her uncertainties and worries, Hayden gathered her strength and inhaled deeply. She stood next to Nicolas and closed her eyes. Angling her head towards the heavens, she focused on Cole and their weak, battered link.

Still cloaked behind a murky wall, Cole’s presence was relatively easy to pinpoint. Hayden enveloped herself with memories of Cole, driving everything else aside but him. As a result of her frenzied concentration, the link seemed to strengthen. Unfortunately, with the stronger link came echoes of pain from his side of the bond. She swallowed past her hysteria and turned her body in his direction.

Though he probably couldn’t feel it, Hayden channeled strength and reassurance through their link. She would find him, doubtless of who stood in her way. And for the first time, Hayden understood Cole’s change of heart regarding their bond. He claimed he never wanted that chance to slip through his fingers, the chance of seeing where fate would take them, of seeing what they could accomplish together. 

Not only did she understand it, but she also felt the same.

Gathering her courage, Hayden opened her eyes and began traveling south.

End of Book Two