Chapter 8

On the drive back, Madron's face was hidden in the dim light.

"Whose is it?" he broke the silence, his voice hoarse. "The last time we were intimate was three months ago, when I was away on business in Europe."

"It's none of your business," I said coolly. "We've already severed our mate bond."

Madron suddenly grabbed my shoulders. "Amara, I haven't agreed!"

I winced in pain and frowned. "That's your problem!"

Then, I gave a scornful laugh.

"Stop playing the victim. Don't you think that's laughable?"

My words seemed to register, and he finally let me go.

"Celeste and I... it was only that one time, I swear!" he explained frantically.

"She said she wasn't feeling well that day, and I was afraid it would upset you if I brought her home, so I took her to a hotel instead."

Madron's face was a mask of anguish, mixed with self-loathing.

"But as soon as we got to the hotel, I don't know what came over me. My mind grew foggy, and in the haze... I thought she was you..."