Chapter 19

Abby

“You did what?”

The words came out sharper than I expected.

Kade’s face tightened.

“I accepted you as my mate.”

“I heard that part.”

My heart was beating too fast now.

The monitor beside me proved it.

Daphne glanced at it, then at me.

“Abby—”

“No.” I looked at Kade. “You rejected me.”

“I know.”

“And then, while I was unconscious, you decided to accept me again?”

His jaw tightened. “It didn’t restore the bond.”

“That isn’t the point.”

My throat hurt, but anger pushed past it.

Kade took another step toward the bed.

I immediately stiffened.

He stopped.

Good.

At least he noticed.

Liam looked between us. “Maybe this conversation can wait.”

“No.”

Kade and I spoke at the same time.

Liam frowned.

I looked at Kade. “I want to hear what he has to say.”

Daphne crossed her arms. “Fine. But if your heart rate keeps climbing, I’m