This Mate Bond? I'm Done
It's not going to mess with our mate-bonding ceremony next week.
Perhaps I had looked too wrecked, because Joe's voice softened. "Anna, we've been through ten years together. What are you so afraid of? You're the only mate I'll ever have! Just hang in there, okay? Give it a few days, and I'll bring you back."
I lowered my head, tears slipping down my face. My voice came out rough and low. "Okay. I'll move out today."
I'd spent ten years waiting for Joe, and this was how it all ended. And now, all of a sudden, I didn't feel like waiting anymore.