Page 106 of Hunter

“Her blood,” Hunter commented, acutely aware that he shared the same bond now with his mate.

“Yes. I’m sure the High Priestess knows I can detect her. If Ilsbeth is truly Ilsbeth, she understands the metaphysical aspects of blood exchange. I’m not saying she likes it or won’t try to cast a spell to rid herself of me. She definitely will try. She’s still Ilsbeth. She won’t like it at all.”

“I say we hit the front door first,” Hunter suggested. “From a distance, it looks clear of demons. If the witches are channeling energy or whatever, they shouldn’t notice us.”

“I have a bad feeling,” Willa whispered.

“We have no choice.” Hunter lifted her hand and brushed a kiss to the back of it.

“Correct,” Viktor agreed. “There is no other way. It’s best we face things head on. Time’s wasting and I’m envisioning a trip to a tropical island in the South Pacific.”

“Be careful,” Hunter warned. “In and out. No matter how naked those witches are, no distractions.”

“No worries. I’ve got this. See ya on the flip side homies.” Viktor flashed a smile and gave a dismissive wave.

As the vampire disappeared, Hunter turned to Willa. “Stay by me, okay? I know you’ve got that royal vibe, sweetheart, but don’t give the demons a reason to go after you. Remember what I said. If it all turns to shit, I want you to shift and take off running. I’ll find you afterward.”

“I can’t just leave you…” she protested.

“Promise me. No arguments, Wills.”

“I’ll try. It’s all I can say. I’m not going to run my whole life.”

“You won’t be running your whole life. We’re going to be fine.” Hunter knew his words held an empty promise. Whatever they were walking into was dangerous, yet the need to reassure her took precedence over pessimistic thoughts.

“There’s a reason I started getting powers,” she said. “I’m going to use them.”

“Only if you need to but don’t underestimate Ilsbeth or the demons. She’s danced with the devil before.”

“But she lost,” Willa challenged.

“True but she did a helluva lot of damage in the process to a whole lot of people. I know she saved you and you two had that…” he shook his head, “moment or whatever you want to call it but I’m telling you she’s dangerous. And demons are no picnic either. I’m just sayin’. We don’t know what we’re going to be up against. I swear to the Goddess if that bitch tries to double cross us, I’m gonna burn her at the stake myself.”

“I’ll be careful. I promise.” Willa nodded.

“Stay behind me. I’ll go first. And Willa? I…” His eyes flashed to hers and emotion stirred in his chest. He slammed down his guards as the words crossed his mind. I love you. Impossible he could have gone a lifetime without Willa, now in an instant he could lose her. “I’m glad you’re my mate. I promise we’re going to have a lifetime of happiness when this is over.”

“Me too.” Willa smiled in return, but her eyes remained cloaked in concern.

“Ready?” He gave a closed smile.

“Absolutely.”

The Alpha caught sight of the candlelit pentagram spread over the grass and held tight to Willa’s hand. As they quietly passed the chanting witches, they took care not to disturb the circle of salt that had been poured onto the lawn. Wearing black satin robes, the women stood circling a bonfire.

The distinctive scent of hickory burning lingered in the air. By the time they reached the stairs, Hunter detected the shift in the energy, dark magick swirling around them. No crickets sang, deafening silence filling the night.

The wooden planks creaked under their feet as they ascended the porch. The front doors swung wide open by themselves, slamming against the siding. Dragon’s blood incense filtered throughout the foyer as they stepped inside the mansion. In near darkness candlelight flickered, illuminating the room.

Hunter wasted no time, calling on the High Priestess. “Ilsbeth. Show yourself.”

The sound of clicking heels echoed off the wooden floors, growing louder as she drew closer. The Alpha steeled his mental shields as she approached, her dark energy washing over him.

As she stepped into the light, he took sight of the High Priestess. She wore a skintight black leather jumpsuit, a silver pentagram hung protectively around her neck. Her long platinum hair glistened in the candlelight. Hunter was not deceived by her ethereal beauty, knowing all too well the danger that lurked within her soul.

“We’re here. What’s next?” Hunter asked.

“Do you have it? The book?” she replied.