Leandra just stared at Nathan's outstretched hand. She couldn't believe that not only had she just betrayed the last werewolf, he was her son's mate.
As Leandra continued to stare at Nathan, sobbing, he gently pulled her into a hug. As he held the crying woman, Nathan had to ask Griffin for help.
"Is there any way to stop her from crying?"
Griffin glanced up from the trunk he was struggling to shut. "Nothing's better than a hug. Just give her a minute."
It took several minutes of deep breathing, but Leandra was able to calm down and pull herself together. As they separated, Nathan used the sleeves of his shirt to clean up Leandra's face.
"Better?" He asked.
Leandra pulled in a shuttering breath as she examined Nathan's face. "I'm sorry."
Nathan met her gaze, giving Leandra a confused look. "There's nothing to be sorry for. You didn't do anything on purpose and I would never hold that against you."
As Leandra cupped Nathan's cheeks, she glanced over at Griffin, who'd managed to pack the last of his and Nathan's belongings. "I am sorry, son. I feel horrible that you need to leave your home."
Griffin walked over, wrapping his arm around Nathan's shoulders. "I know, mom. It's not your fault, but you understand that I can't risk telling you where we'll go, right?"
Leandra sighed, "Of course, but if you ever need me for any reason, you know how to reach me. I'll help you in any way I can."
Griffin nodded as he pulled his mother into another hug. "Love you, mom. Hopefully this'll all work out and you can get to know Nathan better."
Leandra pulled Griffin down and kissed his forehead before doing the same to Nathan. "Be safe. I love you."
Griffin stepped back, taking Nathan with him. With one final nod at his mother, Griffin grabbed the two trunks and headed to the clearing, Nathan trailing closely behind.
As they reached the clearing, Griffin turned towards his mate, "Nate, love, I'll need your help to secure the trunks after I shift. Can you do that?"
Nathan nodded, the situation they were in slowly starting to really hit him. "Is there anything specific I need to know?" He asked, his voice coming out as a shaky whisper.
Griffin pulled him close, feeling Nathan shivering against him. "Don't worry," he whispered, trying to soothe the trembling wolf. "I won't let anything happen to you. Come on, let's get moving."
20 minutes later, after Griffin's careful instructions and much trial and error, Nathan finally had the two trunks rigged securely against Griffin's sides.
Despite never losing patience, it was obvious that Griffin was anxious for Nathan to be done. Griffin had almost gotten to the point of abandoning their stuff and just leaving when Nathan finally got one trunk tied down and made quick work of the second.
Nathan stood back, proud of himself. As he was admiring his work, Griffin's voice came through the bond. "Climb up, love. The sooner we leave the better."
Nathan glanced up at him, nodding, "I'm coming."
As soon as Nathan was settled into his spot, Griffin took off, heading towards a place Nathan never thought he'd return to.
Dark Moon Mountain.