Page 73 of Fated By Fire

“The mate bond is not something you can simply ignore,” she says gently.

I tense. “It’s complicating things.”

“That’s its nature.” She smiles faintly. “But it can also be a source of strength.”

“I can’t afford distractions,” I insist. “Not now.”

“Trying to sever the bond is foolish,” Lydia warns. “It’s a rare and powerful connection. Breaking it could have consequences—unintended ones.”

I meet her gaze. “I don’t have a choice.”

She sighs softly. “You’re making a mistake.”

“Perhaps,” I concede. “But it’s mine to make.”

She places a hand on my arm. “Remember, Caleb—the clan needs unity. Not isolation.”

I nod curtly, and she releases me, turning to leave.

“Take care,” she says over her shoulder.

As I exit the boardroom, Dorian is waiting for me in the hallway, leaning against the wall.

“Thought you might need a drink,” he says, holding up a flask.

I shake my head. “Not now.”

He falls into step beside me. “You looked like you were about to burst into flames back there.”

“Noticed that, did you?”

“Hard to miss when the temperature in the room rises ten degrees.”

We walk in silence for a moment before he speaks again.

“You’re making a mistake pushing her away,” Dorian says quietly.

I shoot him a sharp glance. “Stay out of it.”

“I can’t.” He stops, forcing me to face him. “You think I don’t recognize the signs? You’re tearing yourself apart.”

“Enough,” I warn.

He ignores me. “Remember what happened to Dad? His isolation, his refusal to let anyone in—that’s what led to… what happened.”

“This isn’t about him.”

“Isn’t it?” Dorian’s eyes bore into mine.

“I’m doing what’s necessary.”

“For whom? The clan—or your pride?”

My temper flares. “You have no idea what you’re talking about.”

“Don’t I?” He steps closer. “You’re not the only one who’s ever cared about someone.”

I narrow my eyes. “What do you mean? What wouldyouknow about love?”

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