Gerald POV
My heart feels like it's going to beat out of my chest. Miriam would never do such a thing. There has to be another explanation. Someone else had to be involved. A black magic warlock or witch that gave Chelsie the potion to create the false bond. I stand from my seat intending to teleport back to the coven when Vanessa's sobs have my feet rooted to the spot. As much as I believe Miriam wouldn't do all that Vanessa just said, I know my niece would never lie to me.
I can't leave here letting her think that my words about loving her, no matter what, weren't true. I open my eyes and take a step closer. "Vanessa, sweet girl, please look at me." Her mate releases her, and she looks up at me with tear-stained cheeks. My heart squeezes in my chest. I reach down and pull her into my
