Page 23 of Dark Sold Mate

“I have been doing well on my own for eight years.”

“In the human world,” August said softly. “This is different. These are predators that will not rest till they have what they want.”

Elle pulled away from him. “So you are telling me to accept this? This unwanted bond? You want me to live with the man who made my life a living hell?”

“I'm saying you're in the right hands.” August's voice sounded firm. “Silas may be a controlling bastard and he certainly should have sought your permission before getting bonded to you. But he is the smartest Alpha in 3 territories, and he has the means to keep you safe.”

“I don't want his protection.”

“I know. But you need it.” August stood up, dusting his pants. “Give him a chance, Elle. Give this a chance. Perhaps it is not going to be as bad as you think.”

Elle stared at her brother in amazement. “You’re supposed to be on my side.”

“I am on your side. That is why I am telling you the truth, rather than what you would like to hear.” He sighed. “I love you. I want you to be safe. And the safest place you will be is with Silas.”

“But—”

“He's my best friend, Elle. I've known him my whole life. And I know what he did was wrong, but he wants you to be safe. His wolf recognizes you as his mate, and that is why he will die before anything happens to you.”

Elle's eyes burned with tears. “He took my choice away. You know how much I value that.”

“I know. And that was wrong. But running will change nothing. It will get you in even greater trouble.”

“So what am I supposed to do?”

August pulled her into a hug. “You're supposed to survive. Like you always do. You are the strongest person I know, Elle. You know, if anybody can get this situation to work, it has to be you.”

Elle nuzzled her face into the crook of his neck, sobbing. She had been so hopeful that August would help her escape. So sure he would be on her side and take her away from Silas and this nightmare.

But he was right. Even in her state of anger and frustration, she was able to see logic. Running would mean further jeopardizing her. The traffickers would hunt her down.

And Silas, with all his vices, was trying to protect her.

This did not mean that she had to like it or forgive him. It did not mean that she had to accept this relationship.

But it meant she was stuck.

Stuck with the man who rejected her. Trapped in the pack that did not accept her and a mating bond she never desired.

Elle drew back from August's arms and wiped her cheeks. “I hate this.”

“I know.”

“I hate him.”

“I know that too.”

“But you are not going to help me.”

August shook his head. “I can't. I'm sorry.”

“How long are you staying?” She asked August.

“As long as you need me.”

“I need you forever.”

August smiled sadly. “Then I suppose I am staying for the rest of my life.”