The Alpha's Claim

Elira

I stand there, frozen, looking at Kael. His stormy eyes lock onto mine, heavy with something I cannot name. The mate bond tugs painfully at my chest, a hateful pull, a chain I never asked for.

He walks toward me slowly now, each step is deliberate, and when he reaches me, his hand catches mine gently.

“You okay?” he asks softly, his voice low, almost… caring to my surprise.

I yank my hand away instantly, my scar burning hot beneath my sleeve. My voice comes out ...