Lucas was your mate?

He looked down at her in disbelief, pondering what had prompted her swift change of heart. The realization that her decision was influenced by being in heat weighed on him, causing a pang of sorrow. He knew she wouldn't have made that choice willingly while sober.

"You are in heat, that's not the real you talking," he declared, releasing his hand from her grip before exiting the cottage.

"I..." she began, propped on her elbows, but her words trailed off as he departed. How could she persuade him that her desire for him went beyond the heat-induced impulse?

Sighing, she sank back into bed, covering herself while curling up. With no other option, she resolved to endure it until tomorrow, convincing herself that it was just a temporary struggle.

Outside the cottage, Damien stood by the fountain, eyes closed, focusing intently. He sought to reassure himself that her feelings were genuine, yet his ego restrained him from acting unless she truly wanted him.