31. Rune's Paintings

"I'm...ah... happy for you," I say, trying to force a smile to my face, but I fail, because I'm not.

Even Sapphire sees past it because she gives me a wary look and says, "I'll leave you two to talk." To Thorne she says, "I'll be with the rest." And she kisses the corner of his mouth while her eyes are trained on me.

It's a very clear message that I understand all too well. *Back off.*

I look away, feeling stupid and angry for reasons that have nothing to do with jealousy. Or maybe it is. I don't know.

I'm not angry that he's found his mate. I'm not angry that he has obviously moved on. It's just...it isn't me. I'm not the one. And it stings.

There is a long pause in which Thorne stares at me with vulnerable eyes and I stare back at him, heart further sinking. "It happened on the first week."

I fold my arms and look down at my boots. "You don't have to explain anything to me, Thorne. I understand."

"It wasn't a matter of choice, Astrid."