Jade
I swallowed hard, staring at him as the words left my mouth before I could rethink them. "I'm ready to be with you. On one condition."
Darius chuckled, but it wasn’t his usual laugh—it was softer, almost sad, like he was bracing himself for something bad. His brow lifted in curiosity. "And what’s the catch?"
My stomach knotted with nerves. "No one can know we’re mates, Darius. Not yet, please. Let them think we’re just... friends. Getting to know each other again, with some... romantic feelings involved."
The words felt heavy, but it was the only way I could navigate being with him openly without hurting my wolf or him.
Silence stretched between us, and I held my breath, waiting for his reaction. Instead of answering, Darius stepped forward until he was right in front of me. Conf
