The sincerity in his voice made my chest ache. "I don't want anyone to die for me."
"Then live for us," he whispered. "Accept the bond. Let us help you claim your birthright."
I stared at him, unable to find words. The moonlight cast shadows across his face, highlighting the earnestness in his expression. I wanted to believe him, to believe that their protection came from something real and not just the mate bond forcing their hand.
"I don't know how to trust you," I admitted, my voice barely audible. "Any of you."
"I know." He reached out slowly, telegraphing his movement, and when I didn't pull away, he gently took my injured hand. His touch was feather-light as he examined my bruised knuckles. "Trust takes time. But we don't have much of that left."
"Three days," I whispered.
"Thr
