I glanced back at Racheal, watching her fade back as she stormed out of the hall. As soon as the Elders were done, Astride stormed out as well, leaving me rooted in the middle of the crowd.

I hid my shame and pain quickly. I should at least prepare to get used to this. But if Astride thinks I'll be the only one getting frustrated and hurt by the bond we share, he is sadly mistaken. He has no idea how much pain I'll make him go through.

I didn't know what else to do, because Mara was with her mate, and since everyone seemed to avoid me, I decided...