Nicole stood her ground, her expression a mask of determination and resilience. She didn't know what emboldened her, but she was no longer willing to be a victim. She drew upon her newfound strength, fortified by Liam, and refused to cower in the face of Lilian's aggression.

As Lilian lunged forward, her claws elongating and her fangs bared, Nicole skillfully sidestepped, evading the attack. She met Lilian's ferocity with calculated precision, her movements fluid and controlled. She ...