Chapter 11. Rumor Has It

Nicolas's POV

For what seemed like the hundredth time this morning, Zara's cute face kept popping into my mind.

"Something feels off," I murmured to myself. "I should not be affected by the bond anymore. By now, it ought to have been severed. The mating ritual happened nearly a week ago."

I sighed with annoyance, set the pen down on my desk, and peered out the window.

The memory of meeting Zara held my thoughts captive all the time. Her beauty was even more striking up close. Her perfect skin revealed a subtle glow on her cheeks under the moonlight. Her raven hair shone brilliantly. Her silver eyes looked like mercury flowing around her pupils.

I found myself thinking about that evening again.

"Take the Alpha's hand, Zara," her beta whispered, gesturing to my hand.

Zara hesitated, unsure of what to do.

I couldn't help but find Zara's expression adorable. Almost like a deer in headlights, she hesitated a great deal to t