*~Leon's POV~*
"No. Please, don't do this," I said, my voice breaking, reaching toward Hazel.
But Hazel raised her hand calmly, her expression carved in authority. "I'm sorry, Leon. This was decided by the council. It's not my choice."
She released Sophia's hand, and my so-called wife stepped forward slowly, her eyes shining with that same manipulative innocence that had fooled everyone but me.
"By next season," Hazel continued coldly, "your wife must be pregnant—"
"Hazel, stop," I cut in, my tone sharp. "She doesn't want this. Please. You know how much of a liar your sister is. You know her, Hazel. If you believe anyone, believe me. I saw those demons with my own eyes—they said our mate bond is false! Don't trap me in this, please. Don't condemn me to a lifetime of pain and regret."
Hazel turned back, her eyes softening for only a brief second before she looked away.
