FORTY FIVE

DIMITRI'S POV

If I could reject her, would I be able to do it?

I had told myself my word was my honor, but seeing my mate in such a state because of the words I had spoken while I was drunk and torn between what my beast wanted and what I was bound by honor to do shattered me completely.

The thought didn't linger for long. If I were in control, I wouldn't do it. I couldn't.

But she didn't know she had that power. She didn't need to.

"No," I replied. "If the heavens put us together, there must be a reason for it."

"You would disregard Lady Milana?"

My jaw tensed. It was foolishness to hold on to the bond. I could tell her and be done with all this mess. But would that really solve anything? I was bound to her mate bond or not. I had kids with her.

As much as I wanted to blame the beast for my indecision, this was all me. I did not want to let Camille go.

"I would not disregard Milana. I promised to marry her."

"So what about me, Dimitri? You would keep me as your mistress?"

The