The traffic light flashed red, and the car eased to a stop. Derek turned to me, his eyes burning with an intensity that almost scorched. "I don't want to break our bond, Rachel. Give me a chance. I'll cherish you, I swear." His voice was low, resolute. "I know losing the pup hit you hard, but we can have more in the future…"
"Derek!" I cut him off, my voice trembling. "Five years, and you never let go of Alyssa. Who's this act for now?"
My words shook, betraying the hurt I tried to bury. "Didn't you always see me as a sister? Shouldn't you respect my choice? Our bond agreement said we'd part cleanly. You trying to back out now?"
Pain flickered in his eyes. "I don't love Alyssa. She's always been just a sister to me. You're the one I want to spend my life with."
His words hit like a bra
