Chapter 3 We stood on opposite sides of the door , speaking in hushed tones our old way of making up after fights , when neither of us could risk being seen together . The bitter scent of wolfsbane cigarettes seeped through the cracks Liam only smoked those when he was incredibly stressed . Aria , I know I messed up . I hurt you . But please , try to understand … His voice was hoarse , thick with emotion but still carrying that stubborn Alpha command . Sarah and I … we grew up together in the Northern Packs . Our fathers always intended us to mate , to unite our territories . We share a history … Even though we drifted apart , shes always been special to me . I cant let her die from the Blood Curse , not when I could save her . Shes been cursed by the Goddess herself . The healers say she wont survive another full moon … The sound of his fist hitting the wall made me jump . His wolf was close to the surface I could feel its anguish through the remnants of our bond . All she wants is to live , to experience a true mate bond before the curse takes her . How could I deny her that ? Aria , you have the kindest heart of any wolf Ive known . I know you want to help save her life , right ? I know it hurts , but I know you understand . You always have . Once shes … gone … Ill make things right . Well complete our bond , have pups , Ill make you my Luna , fulfill all my promises to you . It was the life wed dreamed of . Me as his Luna , raising our pups , strengthening the pack bonds while he led our territory to greatness . My only wish had been to be loved by him , to be his true mate despite my Omega status . Chapter 3 Suddenly , his phone rang . Through the door , I could hear Sarahs shaky voice . Sarah ? Why are you crying ? His voice changed completely , Alpha command giving way to tender concern . The ceremonial robes ? You want to try them on now ? Of course , my love . Dont cry Im coming right away . Ill always be here for you . na our Youll be the most beautiful pack has ever seen . No one could compare to you , u know that , right ? He grabbed his leather jacket , about to rush out . Then , he paused , turning back to my door . Aria ? Aria , you have to believe me . Youre my fated mate , my true match . All this , its just … its for Sarah , just to keep her alive until the curse takes her , okay ? Im terrified shell lose hope , that shell give up fighting the curse . Please , Aria . Wait for me , okay ? Ill come back to you , well complete our true bond , I promise . Silence fell between us like a wall of mountain ash . I stared at the closed door , a humorless laugh escaping my lips . Hed just sworn eternal love to two different mates , breaking every sacred law of our pack . My lips curled into a bitter smile as my wolf whimpered inside me . The pain in my was almost unbearable the severed mate bond a raw , bleeding wound . chest He claimed to love me most , yet he was willing to break our fated bond to make Sarah happy . I heard the front door slam shut , felt him racing across the pack grounds through our fading connection . As the echo of his footsteps faded , something inside me shattered completely . A wave of despair so overwhelming crashed through my entire being that my legs gave out . I collapsed to the floor , my wolfs anguish tearing through my chest like molten silver . The pain was unlike anything Id ever felt before not just emotional , but physically devastating . My vision blurred as the agony ripped through my body , the rejection of our severed bond Chapter 3 feeling like my very soul was being shredded apart . Seven years of love and trust crumbled into dust , the weight of betrayal crushing my lungs until I couldnt breathe . A metallic taste filled my mouth as blood spilled past my lips , dripping onto the wooden floor . One crimson drop landed on my mothers ring , sliding down the silver band . Then suddenly , something strange happened , My mothers ring blazed to life with an intense blue light that filled the entire room . In "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die" by CrushReel, Zoe Hale takes a daring step by marrying Ashton Cross, a man under suspicion for her sister's mysterious demise. As their relationship evolves, hidden truths unravel, intertwining love and suspense in this captivating romance novel. Exploring the complexities of loyalty and deception, the story delves deep into Zoe's quest for justice while navigating the unexpected twists of her heart. The enigmatic bond between Zoe and Ashton unfolds against a backdrop of secrets and revelations, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with each turn of the page. Set in a blend of romance and drama, "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die" stands out for its intricate character dynamics and the seamless fusion of passion and intrigue. With every chapter, CrushReel skillfully crafts a narrative that immerses readers in a world where love confronts darkness, leaving them yearning for more. Discover the enthralling saga of Zoe and Ashton, available to read at CrushReel. Immerse yourself in this unique tale that defies conventions and promises an unforgettable literary experience.