16. Strings

(Mateo)

My whole body felt like it was burning. Shade was clawing from the inside, and I knew he wanted to break free and claim what was his, consequences be damned, and I almost, almost wanted to let him loose. But I knew I couldn’t force this on her. I was not brought up like that.

It felt too real, the pain, the heartbreak. So definite.

I wasn’t done fighting for her, not yet, but for now, tonight, I didn’t want to be here alone with her. I was worried that I might do something that would change our lives completely.

“I-” she hesitated, and I closed my eyes tight. Seeing her face, filled with worry and guilt, wasn’t helping me. She should feel the guilt, but somehow it was not a good feeling to see that look in her eyes.

“GO,” my voice came out in a loud growl and then I stiffened when I could smell her. Closer than before. What the f*ck was she still doing here? Why the f*ck wouldn’t she just go away?

“I don’t want to hurt you, Prince Mateo.”

Prince Mateo. I f*cking hated it.

“And