CHAPTER 17

Emma's POV

I pounded the earth, my feet carrying me away from the scene. Away from Angelo's expectant gaze. Away from the question that had left me breathless.

Be my mate.

I couldn't answer him. I couldn't say yes, not when my heart belonged to someone else. But I couldn't say no, not when the fate of my children hung in the balance.

I was stuck in a dilemma, torn between my love for Gabe and my desire to protect my kids. I knew Gabe would be heartbroken if I chose Angelo, and the thought alone was enough to bring tears to my eyes.

But what choice did I have? Angelo held all the cards, and I was just a pawn in his game.

I ran faster, my sweat-drenched hair plastered to my face. I didn't know where I was going, I just knew I had to get away.

Away from Angelo's demands.

Away from my own doubts.

Away from the fear that I would lose everything I held dear.

I ran until my lungs burned, until my legs ached. But still, I couldn't escape the truth.

I was trapped, caught between two loves, tw