Both stable

The kiss lasted five more minutes before Ray pulled away, allowing her space to catch her breath, though his hand remained wrapped around her neck. They breathed against each other, their chests rising and falling as if they had been deprived of oxygen.

Lifting her gaze, Mia met his…those piercing eyes already burrowing into hers and found herself entranced, unable to look away. Being this close to him stirred something in her chest, something she was beginning to fear might be feelings. He looked even more alluring like this, and for a fleeting moment, she wondered if being his mate wouldn't be so bad after all. Maybe she had misjudged him.

"Do you still want to reject me?" She asked, hoping for an answer different from the one she expected.

Unlike her, who was suddenly wavering, Ray didn't seem conflicted. If anything, he appeared detached, merely reacting to the mate bond rather than any true desire of his own.