Magnus
That look in her eyes is what kills me the most.
But what breaks me even more is knowing I still have more to say—worse things. Harsher truths. Because what I've said so far isn't nearly as cruel as what I truly need to tell her.
And yet… Kaya's eyes are killing me.Everything about her is.
With a heavy sigh, I summon every ounce of strength I have to resist the pull of the mate bond. I shove Athan's instincts deep down, forcing myself to remain stoic—as detached as possible—as I begin.
"It was my choice," I say quietly. "My job… my purpose… they leave no room for weakness. I was born to be a warrior—a weapon. A monster who only knows how to fight, how to serve. Those are the only things I can do. The only things I'm allowed to be."
I pause.Because I can't go on with this lie—not without choking on it.I can't keep this mask on while spewing bullshit that barely holds together anymore.
