Athena’s POV
“Athena, this is our chance to escape. Join me,” he implored, desperation evident in his eyes.
“Wait, what?” I pulled my hand away abruptly.
“What's the matter?” He seemed taken aback by my reaction.
“Look, I never expressed a desire for us to be together,” I struggled to choose my words carefully.
“What do you mean?” His voice wavered with disappointment.
“Bardulf, I appreciate you. You've shown me true friendship and supported me at my lowest. But I question if I'm meant to be your mate,” uncertain about the consequences.
He took two slow steps backwards, his eyes welling with disappointment.
“Are you... rejecting me?” His voice trembled.
“No, yes. I mean, my heart belongs to someone else.”
“So you mean everything that has happened between is nothing?”
