Chapter 78. You’re Mine

Valen had been restless all day, pacing his office like a caged animal. Ella consumed his thoughts, her presence weaving through his mind in a way he couldn’t shake. The scent of her lingered everywhere, teasing him, taunting him, reminding him she was just within reach.

But he couldn’t go to her. Not yet.

He knew she wanted answers, and he wasn’t ready to give them. The truth was messy, dangerous, and he wasn’t sure how she’d react. Would she hate him? Look at him with disgust? The thought alone made his chest tighten.

He slammed his fist onto the desk, the sound reverberating through the empty office. Staying away from her wasn’t just hard—it was agony. The temptation to claim her was a constant ache in his soul, growing stronger with every passing moment. But she deserved better than half-truths and secrets.

His hand rubbed at his temples as he exhaled sharply. “Pull yourself together,” he muttered under his breath.

And then it hit him—an unease that