“Yes. I finished early today. I came back to spend time with my lovely mate,” he said, leaning down to kiss me, but again, I turned my face, and his lips met my cheek.
Razen paused, watching me, but I kept my focus on the book I was not truly reading.
“I feel like we have not spent enough time together. I will take a few days off from pack duties,” he said softly, his eyes filled with concern.
I shrugged lightly. “You have been busy with the pack. I understand.”
Razen frowned slightly, surprised by my calm tone. He knew this was not like me. I had always wanted him to rest and stay with me.
“What’s going on, Nivella?” he asked. “Why are you acting like this?”
Nivella's POV
My eyes stayed on the book as I answered him. “Nothing.”
“Are you upset because you saw Navielle and me together at the healer’s hall?” he asked. “I have told you many times that…”
I cut him off before he could continue his lies. “I said I’m fine. You and Navielle are close, or whatever you call it. I don’t care about that. Now can you let me have some quiet. This book is getting interesting.”
Razen’s jaw tightened, and irritation flashed in his eyes before he stood and walked into the bathing room.
I got up from the bed and went to the kitchen for water.
As I stepped inside, I leaned against the counter, breathing slowly to calm the storm inside me.
Then I heard his heavy steps behind me.
“You have been acting strange all day, Nivella,” Razen said, his tone sharp. “If something is wrong, say it.”
I turned to face him, keeping my face steady. “I already told you. I’m fine. No need to worry about me. Why don’t you go check on Navielle and her pup instead?”
His eyes darkened as his jaw clenched. “What do you mean by that?”
I shrugged and moved away from the counter. “Nothing. Just that you seem more concerned about her than your own mate.”
His patience snapped. “You are being unreasonable again, Nivella. Navielle is your sister. Stop this pupish jealousy.”
I rolled my eyes. “I am not jealous. You two suit each other.”
“Enough,” he growled, and suddenly his hand shoved me hard.
My back hit the edge of the counter, and pain shot through me. I gasped as I lost balance.
I fell, my stomach striking the floor as a sharp cry left my lips.
“You know what? I have matters to handle in the pack tonight. Don’t wait for me,” Razen said coldly.
The door slammed as he left.