Mason POV
I remain motionless as Erica kisses me. The mate bond is overpowering, but my mind is clear and unaffected.
“Dammit, Erica,” I forcefully push her away. “I said no.”
“Please,” she starts crying. “I cannot do this without you. I thought I could, but it’s too painful. Please, please help me.”
Sympathy pulses through me, and I sigh heavily. I do not want her to be in pain, but I am not willing to give up Carina. I like the person I am when she is around. When I am with Erica, I am angry and resentful. I want to be fulfilled and happy when I am old and wrinkled, not sad and regretful like Father.
“I’m sorry,” I place my hands on her shoulders. “I truly am, but we’re over. You made your choice.”
“No,” she shouts desperately. “You chose, I was always coming back to you.”
“Stop p
