CHAPTER TEN

Astrid's cheeks flushed with embarrassment, and she tried to pull away from his grasp, but his hold remained firm.

She stammered, "W–what I do to myself is none of your business."

He chuckled, the sound sending shivers down her spine. "Oh, but it is my business, Astrid. We share a mate bond, and your desires….well, they affect me." He said, the tone of his voice lowering.

His hand slowly touched her cheek and she was both appalled and aroused her.

Despite the internal conflict, Ragnar's touch continued to stir something within Astrid.

His fingers traced a path down her neck, leaving a trail of warmth that contradicted the cool air breezing in from the window.

"I understand, Astrid. This mate bond is driving you nuts—same as me." he whispered, his breath sending shivers down her spine. "I badly wish that it goes away. But you make it hard to wish such when you have this…" he paused, bringing his face to her view, looking into her eyes. "... irresistible scent."

"You Astrid, you say