As Lincoln walked through the village square, he couldn't help but feel a strange pull towards a young woman he had never seen before. She was sitting outside her cottage, weaving a basket with nimble fingers, and her long brown hair was tied back in a loose braid. As he drew closer, he felt the mate bond flare to life within him, and he knew that this was the woman fate had chosen for him.

She looked up as he approached, and their eyes met. He could see the same recognition in her gaze, and he knew that she felt the bond too.

"Hello," Lincoln said, trying to keep his...