_Author’s POV_
Pursing her lips, Zarelle met Calden’s passionate gaze and spoke coldly. “But I don’t feel the same way anymore. I appreciate that you saved me, and if you want compensation, I can discuss it with my family. Now, I believe you need to rest. I’ll take my leave now.”
Inside her mind, Mirelle whimpered with conflicting emotions. ‘He loves us now. Our mate finally loves us.’
‘Too late,’ Zarelle thought firmly. ‘It’s too late for him to love us. The damage is done.’
‘But mates are forever,’ Mirelle protested weakly. ‘The bond between the Missatian Pack and Sunlight Ridge Pack—’
‘Means nothing if there’s no trust,’ Zarelle cut her off. ‘I won’t go through that pain again.’
Calden’s heart felt like an open wound, dripping with blood. Though he had a thousand wor
