Cassian froze mid-step, the weight of the realization hitting him like a gale-force wind. The word mate echoed in his mind, the bond snapping into place as he watched you from across the training field, your laughter ringing out as you sparred with Azriel.

His heart pounded as the truth settled in, and a mix of awe and guilt swirled in his chest. How had he not seen it before?

When you turned to him, your smile softening at his dazed expression, Cassian took a shaky breath.