|| Lilac’s POV ||

The ride home was a blur, the world outside the car window passing by in a haze of lights and shadows. My so-called mate— I still didn’t know his name— sat beside me, his presence a constant reminder of the bond I didn’t want. He tried to make conversation, his voice gentle and kind, but I couldn’t bring myself to respond.

“My name is Elias,” he said, his tone soft.

I stayed quiet.

“You are Lilac, right? Lilac Blackwood? I admire ...