[Jake's POV]

"Every tabloid in the city is talking about it!" Jessica screeched. "They say you were at that café. That you were protecting some... mistress. A waitress! A bottom-feeder!"

"Watch your tone," Noah's voice cut through hers like a blade. It was low, calm, and terrifying.

"I won't!" Jessica argued.

"My friends are laughing at me. The Delaneys are questioning the alliance. You nearly got killed, and your nephew was tortured, all because of some low-class girl? If she had died in ...