"It's alright, Waverly," I heard him say. He reached out, patting her shoulder, his hand lingering far too long for my liking. "Don't let them get to you. You were brave today. Truly. I'm also sorry your family was misunderstood. Being so sad for someone they haven't met only reflects on how kind their hearts are."
I watched him. I watched the way he leaned in, the way his fingers brushed the ash-grey silk of her sleeve.
"Kill him," Vane growled, his hackles up. "His hands are on our mate. Tear them off."
I didn't wait for Vane to finish. I let go of Rose's hand and marched across the courtyard in three long strides. I grabbed Waverly's arm, jerking her away from Julian with a force that made her gasp.
"That's enough, Julian," I hissed. "She doesn't need your 'motivation.' She is fine and can handle her own emotions."
"I was just being kind, Kaeren," Julian said, his smile never wavering, though his eyes were cold.
"Be kind somewhere else," I snapped.
