LIANA
I took a step back, a forced step, escaping his tall shadow. His gaze was fixed on me, unwavering, sending a shiver down my spine.
“You can't hide the truth for long.”
My stomach twisted.
For a brief moment, everything around me went dark, the paintings dissolved, and the colors faded away. Sia growled, rising. Unlike me, she was pleased to find her true mate.
I was finally facing what I was running from.
“How many lies? How many excuses?” His sharp eyes narrowed. “Do you really think hiding a mate bond will protect you?”
A breath slipped free of my lips. “I never wanted to acknowledge this bond.” My voice was a low, guttural growl.
He stepped closer, swallowing the space between us, and stood inches closer. His fingers reached for the broken bracelet on my wrist and gently
