Chapter 45. Mate

Caleb’s POV

“Good evening ladies and gentlemen!” Caroline’s father took the microphone to make the announcement, grabbing everyone’s attention instantly. “The moment you’ve all been waiting for is here! Please welcome the birthday boy and his beautiful date onstage.”

‘I’m so sorry.’ Caroline told me via the mental bond. ‘First the dress and now this…I don’t think he understands that mating bonds can’t be forced.’

‘It’s alright.’ I smile at her outwardly as I kept up the mental connection. ‘Let’s just get this show over with.’

‘Yes, everything will become clear in a few seconds.’ Caroline added as I got on stage and helped her up.

The crowd, that consisted of all unmated women of the pack and beyond, from teens to young adults, looked at me expectantly, and I couldn’t help but feel my heart thrashing inside my chest as the weight of their combined glances weighed heavily on my shoulders.

“No! Caleb, there’s only a minute left for the clock t