Ronan POV

Sadie’s lips barely left mine before I stepped back. The kiss lasted only seconds, but it felt too long. Rafe was irritable, and I had to create a block between us. I stared at Sadie, my mate, we had been apart for so long, yet I didn't feel it as I should have. I tried to search for something within me, maybe guilt for not missing her as I should have or even for sleeping with Josie when she was in heat, but I found nothing.

“I’m glad you're back,” Sadie cupped my face, smiling, but I didn't answer. It just felt so wrong, all of it. My...