ARIEL'S POV

Viktor’s eyes widened in shock before he took a step forward.

My heart pounded faster, and I hoped he’d at least reconsider. He paused just before touching me, then slowly pulled his hands back.

I bit back the burn rising in my chest.

"This is my fate, Bunny," he rasped, and my hopes sank again. Though for the very first time, he actually sounded unsure. Like a brick had finally fallen from the walls he built so tightly around himself.

Was that progress?

"I’ve long accepted it. But what I can’t accept is dragging you down with me. That’s why I’m letting you go now. You have to."...