BLACK MATE

Chapter 5

Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can come together.
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Every aspect of her mate perplexed her. She never sought a mate, never desired one, yet the moment his entrancing gaze locked with hers, a deep connection formed between them. She knew then that they were fated to be together, an undeniable bond that would alter the course of both their lives.

His jet-black hair, softly brushing his forehead, tempted her fingers to run through its strands. His captivating amber eyes held her mismatched gaze captive, and the shock evident in his raised brows and parted red lips left her awestruck. She was spellbound by his presence, yet an underlying instinct warned her of the potential mess and danger that their union might bring.

Despite his gentle demeanor and her inclination to obey his every instruction, a sense of trepidation nagged at her. Surrendering to his kindness and care made her vulnerable, stirring a fear she had never experienced before. The animosity and disapproval exuding from his family only added to her apprehension.

She had made a promise she couldn't break, a vow that bound her to a path she couldn't deviate from without betraying her principles of faithfulness and loyalty. The following day, after eating and bathing, her mate led her to the infirmary, a nameless figure in her life whom she dared not grow attached to.

His concern for her well-being was apparent as he left her in the care of the physician, Theresa. Hooked up to IV drips, she was informed of her depleted state and provided with minimal nourishment to sustain her. As she closed her eyes in the ward, exhaustion pulling her into the realm of sleep, she felt a tender kiss on her head, igniting a bittersweet pang in her heart.

As she hovered between wakefulness and slumber, thoughts of her departure lingered in her mind. She wished for her mate's happiness, knowing she could never truly fulfill his expectations. Despite the kindness he showed her, the brokenness within her was a barrier to their union.

Glimpses of consciousness in her slumber only served to remind her of her guarded nature, a result of years spent in the Grand Order. She lamented her inability to fully trust her mate, to reciprocate the purity of his intentions, as the weight of her damaged soul cast a shadow over their brief time together.

As her eyes fluttered open, she quickly shut them again from the glaring light. She tried to stretch her muscles, but her right hand was restrained. Furrowing her brows, she turned to look at the source of her restraints. Her gaze met a hand tightly but gently clasped around hers, with a head laid beside their entwined hands. His hot breath fanned their hands, sending her breath hitching.

Goodness, how could one person affect her so much? She tapped on his shoulder, causing him to jerk awake. He looked at her for a while before a lazy smile spread across his lips as he moved a strand of hair behind her ears. He proceeded to pour her a glass of water to sate her thirst.

"Let's get you home, you need to eat. It's already dinner time," his husky voice penetrated her ears, sending calming volts down her spine. She could feel herself purring inwardly.

He helped her up from the bed and ushered her into the bathroom to change into the clothes he brought her. His gentle care and consideration only served to deepen her emotional turmoil, as she struggled to reconcile her growing feelings with the secrets and scars of her past.

As they entered the kitchen, the warm atmosphere and harmonious chatter of his family enveloped them, but the moment they sensed her presence, the laughter ceased. He felt a pang of concern as he saw the chill run down her spine, the room falling silent under the weight of their gazes.

Slowly, she pulled her hand from his, her heart racing with a mix of fear and anxiety. He tried to take her hand again, but she quickly moved out of his reach, wincing at her own reaction. He felt his hurt and confusion, but she kept her gaze blank, hiding the turmoil brewing inside.