"Our fathers betrothed us to each other when we were young," Alpha Torrin says, as if that single sentence can make everything right between us again.
My hands clench at my sides as I still refuse to look or even glance at him.
"I'm sorry," he adds. "I don't know if you'll still believe me or not, but the moment I claimed you, I temporarily forgot about Cassandra because of…"
He pauses, either hesitating or trying to find the right words. I expect him to finally admit his illness. Instead, he gives another reason.
"Because of my love for you. Our mate-bond connection is becoming so strong each day that I couldn't stop myself. Moreover, I was desperate to save you from other packs."
He reaches for my hand, but I quickly recoil, making the pain in his eyes amplify.
To avoid an argument, I stride past him and head to the dining area where Harper and Cassandra are already seated at the table, chatting and laughing like old friends.
