A true bond can never be forced—only chosen.

Polly survived the unimaginable. Now she's found safety on Hothrest—and in the arms of the Hothian clan leader who watches over her.

Every night she slips into Njkall's bed seeking comfort.
Every morning she walks away.

Njkall has known from the moment they met that Polly is his mate. But after everything she's endured, forcing his claim on her is the last thing he wants to do.

If he wants a future with her, he'll have to convince her that a mating bond is built on trust, not possession—and that some promises are worth making forever.