The cabin was quiet except for the crackle of the fire and the heavy beat of their hearts. Serah stood by the window, arms wrapped around herself, staring into the dark woods. Damon had been pacing for the last ten minutes, his jaw tight, fists clenched at his sides. The mate bond hummed between them like a live wire, pulling, demanding, refusing to be ignored any longer.
He stopped behind her. She felt the heat of his body before he even touched her.
“I can’t do this anymore,” Damon said, voice rough and low. “I’ve tried to stay away, Serah. Gods know I have. But every time I leave, it feels like I’m tearing my own chest open. I can’t stay away from you.”
Serah turned slowly. Her eyes shimmered with unshed tears. “Then stop trying.”
He reached out, his large hand cupping her cheek. Hi
