ASHLEY

Anita's words came as a shock to me. I didn't expect her to challenge Axel's command. But apparently, she wasn't as scared of him as I was. We all turned as she moved closer to us. Her steps were bold and purposeful. She stopped in front of Axel, with her hands on her waist.

"Why would you take her away? What do you think you are doing?" she asked.

I watched Anita's eyes change from their usual cool green to a blazing yellow. Her eyes flashed as she stood up to Axel, not batting ...