#Chapter 25 Dulling the Ache

Ember I awaken to the full weight of it. There’s no dulling, no buffer, no thin layer of protection. The potion is gone. The bond tugs hard against my chest urging me to find him, my mate. As my mark burns I grip my shoulder trying to ease the burn, but there is no relief. No amount of pressure or cold water that can dull this now. The only remedy is to accept Prince Kaine fully—to stop running. If it wouldn’t lead to certain rejection I would. Losing Nara is not worth it. I pray that Bianca’s presence is enough to distract Prince Kaine for now. I know that I am no longer camouflaged, but if I can stay away from the prince, maybe I can but more time. I have to buy more time. Nara paces in my mind. She doesn’t speak, but her energy is louder than words. She’s there, awake and waiting. I make it to Luna training wishing that it was time to learn politics instead of spar. I am distracted and Bianca can tell. My footing is slow and my strikes lack precision. Bianca doesn’t