Maya’s Point of View
I had to leave. I had to get away before my life spiraled further out of control.
I took a step forward. Then another.
But before I could take a third step, a strong hand shot out and grabbed my arm from behind, yanking me to a sudden halt.
I gasped, spinning around, my eyes blazing with fury. “Who the hell……”
My words died on my tongue when I locked eyes with him.
A tall, broad-shouldered man stood in front of me. His build was strong, but he wasn’t as imposing as Kaiden. His skin was a smooth tan, his hair jet black and slightly tousled, and his piercing hazel eyes bore into mine with an intensity that sent an unexpected shiver through me.
His chiseled jaw clenched, as if he was holding something back, and his breathing was slightly uneven.
Then he spoke.
“Mate.”
A single word. One that made my entire world stop.
My chest tightened. My heart pounded violently against my ribs. My vision blurred for a moment before I forced myself to focus.
I took a sharp step ba
