Chapter 4

I woke to a searing pain in my chest, like molten metal being poured directly into my heart. The mate-bond—once a steady, comforting presence—now flared unpredictably, sending waves of agony through my body. I clutched at my nightgown, gasping for air as sweat beaded on my forehead.

These episodes had been increasing in frequency and intensity over the past week. Something was wrong with our bond, terribly wrong, and Damien either didn't notice or didn't care.

I stumbled from my bed, my legs barely supporting me as another wave hit. The bond wasn't supposed to hurt like this. It was…