Chapter 44

Dante’s POV Angel remained silent as I drove back to the packhouse. I felt her gaze on me for a fleeting moment before she turned her attention back to the passing scenery outside. The air between us felt heavy with unspoken tension, and I couldn’t help but notice how awkward things were between us now. This wasn’t how having a mate was supposed to feel. Even the simple, flirtatious exchanges we had shared when we first met seemed distant now, replaced by palpable unease. I couldn’t help but wonder what she was thinking…how she was feeling. I knew that she wasn’t in her right mind after everything that had happened lately. Shit, I wasn’t either. She simply wanted some control over her life, and while I understood why, I didn’t want marking my mate to be reduced to some kind of arrangement. Being with Peach today was…uncomplicated. Yes, she desired the title of Luna, but she was also willing to offer me love and affection, which was all I craved. Date nights, tickle fights, nights sp