The six outposts no longer answered to Adrian, but he still refused to leave.
The moment he saw Rowan fastening my coat, claws burst from his fingertips.
"One last fight," Adrian said. "If I win, Mara comes back with me."
"She's not yours to wager," Rowan said coldly.
Adrian ignored him and looked straight at me.
"Then let her decide. Beat me, Mara, and I'll never come after you again."
I stepped onto the training ground.
"Fine. I'll make sure you understand this time."
Rowan's hand closed around the hilt of his blade, but I covered it with mine.
"Let me."
"He's fought more formal duels than you have."
"But he's never really known me."
Rowan rested his forehead gently against mine. "Then show him."
The instant he touched me, Adrian's wolf nearly tore through his skin.
"It cou
