A Hopeful Confession Turns Vicious

I stared at Tristan with my heart pounding against my ribcage. He'd just asked me to be his girlfriend, his earnest eyes searching mine for an answer. The confession had been heartfelt, sincere, and under different circumstances, I might have been touched by his vulnerability.

But all I could think about was Adrian's lips on mine just minutes ago.

"I..." My voice trembled slightly. "Tristan, I'm really flattered, but I don't think I'm ready for a relationship right now."

His expression faltered, hope draining from his face. "Is this because of your ex? Julian?"

I winced at the mention of my fated mate's name. "Partly," I admitted. "Breaking a mate bond isn't something you just get over quickly. I'm still healing."

"I could help you heal," Tristan insisted, stepping closer. "I'd be patient. We could take things slowly."