POV: Clara

I was numb by the time I left the library.

Every step down the stairs was a reminder that I was shaking, another reminder that my body no longer belonged to me. The tether burned steadily in my chest, a cruel ember of bone, reminding me of every word Daniel had pressed into me. Say I’m not your mate. Say you don’t want me. Mean it.

I had tried. I choked on it. The bond had punished me as if I’d swallowed fire.

The night air slapped my face, sharp with ...