Chapter 17

Layla desperately wanted to pull her hand away from his grasp, but his hold remained firm. He knew that if she managed to break free, she'd likely run away without looking back. So, he held on tightly, causing her to break into a nervous sweat. Demetrius couldn't help but wonder what he had said to trigger such a strong reaction in her.

"I am your second chance mate, Layla," he calmly declared, though he couldn't hide the indifference in his tone. Layla's heart sank at his words. Was the Alpha playing some cruel game with her emotions?

"Liar!" she yelled, tugging at her hand with the little strength she had left. She felt the shame of her body's betrayal taking over.

"Calm down, Layla," Demetrius implored, attempting to soothe her. "Don't you feel it? It's the bond between us."

"No," she boldly lied, though her eyes gave away her deception. "No!"

Desperation filled Demetrius as he called out to her, and in a bold move, he pulled her trembling body closer, hugging her despite her strug