Her heart fluttered at his words, and she cursed herself for it. She might not want to know about his affairs, but she didn’t know what to do with his declaration of feelings either. She loved him—there was no doubt in her mind—but she loved Carl too.
He pressed a finger to her lips to prevent her from saying anything. “I care about you more than you’ll ever know, Kayla Rath’Varein. But I have no expectations. I want you in my life, but right now, I know you need to be with Carl.”
She paused, wondering if she’d heard him right. Was this why he’d been tamping down on their bond and not pushing her with energy? Was he was trying to give her what she wanted?
He gave her a sad smile and nodded. “You’re lost and trying to figure out how to fit into this new world. Carl gives you strength. I’
