I can’t move. Can’t breathe. Her words cut deeper than any wound I’ve ever gotten on the battlefield—not because they’re untrue, but because they are. And because she said them with a cold finality that makes my wolf recoil.
She doesn’t stop there. Her chin tilts higher, eyes burning into mine. “I’ve heard about your reputation, Seth. Every woman in this kingdom has.”
It doesn’t surprise me. I’ve never hidden what I am, never denied the string of lovers, the games, the charm. It’s easier than letting anyone get close. Easier than admitting I’m empty inside.
But hearing it from her, my fated mate, is a different kind of pain.
Selene and I have never spoken of our connection before. Never named it. I avoided her from the moment it snapped into place, kept my distance, hoping silence woul
