Kieran’s declaration of possession echoed in my mind long after his lips left mine. His arms were still wrapped around me, holding me tight as if I might disappear if he loosened his grip even a fraction. My body was flush against his, and the heat between us was undeniable—searing, all-consuming.
I knew what this moment meant for him. He could feel the mate bond coursing through him with every touch, every breath. For him, it was a connection so powerful, so primal, that nothing could sever it. And yet, for me… it was complicated. I couldn't feel that pull, that instinctive drive the way he did. But my emotions, my body—they had a mind of their own when it came to Kieran.
“Kieran…” I whispered, breaking the kiss just enough to catch my breath, my hands still gripping the fabric of his
