Olivia's POV
The chamber felt too small, the air too thick. I stood in the center of the circle formed by the Elders, my heart hammering against my ribs. This was what I wanted. This was my path to freedom. So why did every fiber of my being scream in protest?
"Lady Olivia," Elder Corbin intoned, "the rejection of a mate bond is an ancient and solemn ceremony. Once done, it cannot be undone. Do you understand this?"
I swallowed hard. "I understand."
My eyes flickered involuntarily to the triplets standing opposite me. Their faces were etched with pain, but I hardened my heart. I'd suffered years of their cruelty. This was justice.
"Very well. We shall proceed with the first rejection." Elder Corbin gestured. "Levi Luciano, step forward."
Levi moved into the circle, his normally confident stance now faltering. His eyes—those eyes that had once looked at me with such contempt—were now swimming with unshed tears.
