I wasn’t someone she would ever welcome.
The bond pulsed anyway. I nearly laughed.
Her men had spent time with her, protecting her, earning their marks—each one tied to her heart. Butmymark had carved itself into me in seconds. Violet, instinctive, undeniable.
It infuriated me.
They earned their right to her.
I did not.
They were chosen.
I was claimed.
Their marks were symbols of love, loyalty, devotion.
Mine was a scar. A warning. A mistake.
And still—the bond pulsed again.
Stronger.
Hotter.
As if reminding me she had felt something when I kissed her—something she shouldn’t have.
I dug my fingers into my hair until I could barely breathe. “This ends.” My voice calm. Final. Cold.
I would not be another man orbiting her. I would not fall into the same trap countless men before me had—destroying themselves for a woman they could never have.
And I sure as hell wouldn't let the bond control what I do.
But then?—
That damn heartbeat brushed mine again.
Channeling through the cracked crown. Through the bond. Through the mistake etched into my arm.
Soft.
Steady.
Unbroken.
I hissed out a breath and leaned back against the stone pillar, eyes closing. “I will not want you.”
A lie.
I felt the bond answer.We’ll see.
My eyes snapped open. No, this was not happening.
I pushed away from the pillar and strode to the far edge of the manor hall, the night wind slamming against my back.
If her men thought they could keep her safe?—
Good. Let them try. Let them all stand between us. I wouldn’t cross that line again. But if one day she came close—If she stood before me with those eyes—If she whispered my name—Trent…
