The Evolution of the Velsera Bond

"Fated mates are traditionally defined as two people destined by fate, destiny, or a supernatural force to be together—bound by an unbreakable, soul-level connection that transcends ordinary attraction. In fantasy and paranormal romance, this bond often manifests through intense physical, emotional, or spiritual reactions, driving the narrative forward even when the characters resist it. The meeting is inevitable. The connection is absolute. "

In Tainted, the Velsera bond, our term for what is more commonly known as a fated mate bond—was never meant to be that simple.

That complexity is intentional. I wanted Alexander and Valentina to have agency beyond divine obligation. Their bond is not a commandment etched into the universe; it is a force that responds to who they are, not just who they are meant to be.

Had I followed the traditional formula, both Alex and Valentina would have awakened fully formed—sexually heightened, instinctively assured, and immediately consumed by the bond. That version would have been easier. It also would have robbed us of something far more important: emotional intimacy built through choice.

In the first book, the Velsera bond is not a steady current; it’s a pulse. Something felt before it is understood. A connection that breathes rather than claims. This is only the beginning of how the bond truly works, and its evolution is tied not just to fate, but to growth, restraint, and consent. Fate may ordain them, but Alexander and Valentina must choose each other—again and again—throughout the first half of the story. Just like in life, even if you meet your perfect counterpart, there is a period of learning. Of friction. Of testing moral ground and discovering whether the foundation you stand on together will hold when pressure is applied.

Alex could have rejected Valentina at many points along the way. He doesn’t—not because he is bound to her, but because of who she is. Her warmth, her humor, her presence. Every moment between them is anchored in the way he sees her fully, even when he doesn’t yet understand what he is seeing.

There is much more I could explain about the Velsera bond—how it functions, what it demands, and the rituals required to confirm it—but that path leads directly into spoiler territory. I’ll spare you that, for now.

Just know this: the bond is not finished revealing itself. And neither are they.