Dominic

Ava's POV

The first time I saw him, I felt it.

That undeniable pull.

It hit me like a punch to the gut—sharp, forceful, and completely unexpected. I had heard about the mate bond my whole life, had imagined what it would feel like, had pictured what my mate might be like. But none of it prepared me for him.

It was when Ronan brought his wolves.

I had been standing at Kael's side, sharp-mouthed and ready to tear into Ronan like I always did, when my eyes landed on him. He was standing behind the others, slightly to the side, not speaking, not reacting—just watching.

Tall. Broad-shouldered. Sharp jawline. His dark hair fell slightly over his forehead, but it didn't soften him. Nothing could.

Because his eyes—piercing, cold, unreadable—were like a blade.

My stomach clenched.

It was as if the world narrowed to just him. And I knew.

But the bastard didn't even react.