Lawrence POV

With his knife flashing like a predator's teeth in the low light, the leader lunged. As the blade slid perilously near my ribs, I planted my feet firmly and pushed Camilla behind me. Ancient and primordial, my instincts roared, demanding that I keep her safe at all costs.

I growled, "Stay back," with the distinct authority of an Alpha in my voice. Even Camilla was stunned by my tone, but the leader merely smiled, unconcerned.

He flicked the knife between his fingers and sneered, ...