Chapter 196. Michael’s Mate

Michael’s POV

Pain and ache in my chest were what I was feeling. I convinced myself I was all right and in control, but deep down I knew I wasn’t.

When I arrived at the gala, my inner lycan, Hael, was excited. He smelled our mate instantly. I felt trepidation because I didn’t know who my mate would be.

I have been different ever since I was young. I felt less restricted by gender roles. Sometimes I felt more masculine, other days feminine. Some days I didn’t identify with either side of the spectrum.

My mother encouraged me to express how I felt through my clothes. I dressed androgynously to support my feelings, but my father hated that part of me. To him, men could only play with guns and roughhousing. I was not the son he dreamed I’d be. He forced me into training early in life, and I became a warrior. I didn’t want to be a warrior because I hated fighting, but I did and became one of the best in the class. He was so proud of me.

I excelled in