Ronan pov
I wanted to ask. Wanted to know her story. Her pain. Everything she’d been through before stumbling into my territory.
But pushing too hard would make her retreat. I’d learned that much.
“If I need help,” I said instead, “I’ll ask. I promise.”
She nodded, seemingly satisfied. Then shifted, uncomfortable again.
“Was there something you wanted? Or did you just come to brood in the library?”
The corner of my mouth twitched. “Can’t I do both?”
“I suppose. You’re the Alpha. You can do whatever you want.”
“Not whatever I want.” The words came out before I could stop them. “I can’t make you trust me. Can’t make you accept this bond. Can’t make you want to stay after our month is up.”
Silence stretched between us. Uncomfortable. Heavy with things neither of us wanted to say.
F
