Kai POV
Mate. The word won't stop running through my head. I have a mate. One that I've just, miracle of miracles, have just promised to actually try this mate thing with. My mind flashes back to Elena and even though, I know, just by looking at her, that Winter is nothing like her, the old hurt and stinging pain remain, even after all of these years. But I have to take a leap of faith. I can't keep living like this, not trusting anyone or letting anyone in. I'm tired of feeling lonely, even when I'm surrounded by people.
Winter looks awestruck at my proposal, as though she'd never dared dream that I would offer to try and I feel an overwhelming sense of guilt and loss. I've put her through so much and even now, she's adamant she wants to be mates. Her eyes are shining and so vivid with
