Page 8 of Hunt Me

“Risk-free,” she reminded him.

“I jest, I jest. Please, sit and eat and drink to your heart’s content.”

Matilda practically drooled when Belzar lifted the silver dome from her meal. The roasted quail, carrots, and potatoes looked absolutely delectable. She leaned in and took a giant whiff of the meal. She almost cried. It had been days since she had a home-cooked meal. Since the fire, she’d been surviving on jerky, cheese, apples, and stale bread she picked up from the market.

As mouthwatering as the meal in front of her was, there was something she desired more. Matilda grasped the pint of ale and chugged it down. She released a loud, satisfied gasp and slammed the tankard down after consuming every single drop.

“You should have another,” Belzar offered.

“No, thank you,” Matilda politely declined. Her head was already feeling fuzzy, and she didn’t want to find herself regretting anything in the morning.

Belzar patiently waited as Matilda tore into her meal. She was ravenous, and he had to wonder when she last had a decent meal. He chuckled when she slurped the tender meat off the bone in a very unladylike manner.

“You don’t have to eat so fast. I won’t steal it from you.”

“You had something you wished to discuss, Belzar. Please make good use of our time and get on with it.”

“Right. Are you okay?”

“Am I okay? What do you mean?”

“Your family’s home was burned down.”

“I’m fine. It was just a dwelling.”

“You’re sorely mistaken, Matilda. Your memories burned away with it.”

“I am still in my right mind. I still have my memories.”

“You took your first step in that house.”

She lifted a brow. “I’m sorry. Is that supposed to mean something to me?”

“You lost all of your belongings.”

“I will get new belongings.”

“You have no place to lay your head at night, and you are impoverished.”

“It would be great if you and Belzara would quit reminding me of the obvious.”

“I apologize. But we worry for you.”

“There is no need for worry. I’ve been taking care of myself for years.”

“‘Tis true, but aren’t you tired of always having to fight for your life?”

“I’m not fighting for my life. I’m fighting for the people of Night Falls so that they can have a better life free from the tyranny of vampires. This is our home, not theirs. We need to take back what rightfully belongs to us!”

“You are not a martyr. Look around you, Matilda. You are the only one fighting the ‘good fight.’ One of these days, you won’t be so lucky.”

“I’m not the only hunter fighting against the vampires.”

“Tilda… I’ve been hearing rumors.”

“What rumors?” she asked suspiciously.

“Rumors that the donors are considering selling their blood once again.”