The Faltered Bond

Chapter 20 | Fleeting mind

CADE B.

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Cade! Heads up!

A loud bark slices through my thoughts just as I lift my head—too late. A plump rabbit vanishes into the safety of its burrow, and frustration curls my lips into a snarl. Helios' flaming eye!

I lunge toward the hole, dirt already flying beneath my paws, when the brush rustles and a sleek, midnight-black wolf steps into view. Her icy eyes lock onto mine with sharp concern.

Did you get it?

I stare down at my empty paws, shame prickling beneath my pelt. It slipped through... I admit half-heartedly, the sting of failure coiling deep in my gut.

Angel's gaze narrows, worry flickering behind her glacial irises.

Honestly, brother—what's gotten into you? That's the fourth rabbit today.

Though her voice is soft, it pierces deeper than any bite.

Apologies, I mutter, ears flicking back. I can't seem to focus today.

Her expression softens, but the concern lingers.

I can tell. So? What's troubling you?

I sigh, averting my eyes. I haven't had much sleep. Those tents aren't exactly made for big guys like me.

The excuse rolls off my tongue with just enough truth to feel safe—but not enough to satisfy Angel. She steps in front of me, her stance unyielding, and I swear there's a flicker of fire burning behind her blue eyes.

I take a step back. One glance, and I already know—I'm not leaving this conversation untouched.

A long breath escapes my lungs. Angel, let me pass—

Nope. She plants her paws firmly. Not until you tell me what's really going on. Come on, Cade, I'm not blind—I see it. Something's been bothering you, and you're not being fully honest with me!

Her voice is firm but not cruel. That's what makes it harder.

I can't help but admire her determination. She's always had that fierce loyalty, that sharp-eyed intuition that's been my lifeline more times than I can count. She's my closest—albeit most insistent—confidant. She's never broken a promise, never left me alone in the dark.

So why now?

Why does the truth feel like thorns in my throat?

Why is this wall—this cursed, stubborn wall—currently standing between us?

Why can't I just say it?

Angel's soft fur presses against my shoulder, her voice gentle and encouraging as ever.
Whatever it is that's bothering you—know that I'm here for you. I'll be ready to listen when you're ready to share.

A sudden wave of relief washes over me.
Thank you, Angel, I murmur. I won't forget this.

Pulling away, she nods and begins her trek back to camp. I step forward, ready to follow, when I find myself hesitating. Her words echo in my mind, digging deeper than I expected. Worry flickers in my chest, and my thoughts drift—unbidden—back to Alex.

I begin to drift away, tapping into the mate bond, searching, reaching out to the ethereal string binding us for eternity. It pulses faintly in my chest—distant, but steady. A quiet heartbeat in the dark, proof that she is alive. That she's still out there, somewhere far beyond the reach of my hands but never beyond the reach of my heart.