Paul's pov
The mate bond was like a storm raging inside me, relentless and unyielding. Every moment I spent ignoring it only seemed to make it stronger. Pecan's scent lingered in my mind, even when she wasn't around, like a haunting reminder of everything I was avoiding. She deserved better than the confusion I felt, better than the hesitation that made me question every decision I made.
My cousin, Connor, arrived unannounced, which was a welcome distraction. He wasn't just family,he was one of the few people I trusted to see the cracks beneath the surface.
"Paul, you look terrible," Connor said as he dropped his duffel bag by the door and took a seat across from me in my office.
"Thanks for the encouragement," I replied dryly, though I knew he was right.
He leaned back in his chair, studying me with that knowing gaze of his. "So, what's going on? And don't even try to tell me it's pack business. This looks personal."
