The final syllable of my oath had barely left my lips before a searing, tearing agony exploded through my chest.
The mate bond began to fracture and break apart.
No words could describe the excruciating torment.
It felt as though my very soul were being ripped in two, every nerve in my body screaming beneath unbearable pain.
I gritted my teeth, pressing a trembling hand against my chest and forcing my knees to remain steady.
I couldn't fall. I would not collapse here, in front of everyone.
A violent crash echoed beside me.
Adrian dropped to his knees on the altar floor, both hands clutching his head. Thin trails of blood slipped from his bloodshot eyes.
"No... you can't do this..." His voice was hoarse, broken, and barely audible.
I looked down at the once-mighty Alpha crumpled be
