Stephen's POV
The moment I said Lila was my mate, my friends' jaws nearly hit the ground. Their expressions froze in complete disbelief.
Nobody had anticipated this revelation. Honestly, neither had I during those early days. I had been denying the mate bond from the very start, ever since that disastrous wedding ceremony.
What should have been the pinnacle of happiness became my darkest moment. Perhaps the Moon Goddess had sent Lila to me as an act of compassion, but I was too shattered to recognize it. Too wounded to dare hope again.
During that time, I was completely devoted to Harry, a witch I believed was destined for me. My certainty never wavered until I discovered the deception. Her mother had woven enchantments around me, using my feelings as a tool to infiltrate Jasmine's circle. I wasn't cherished; I was merely a strategic piece in their game.
