Ashcroft’s gaze was sharp, calculating, but a faint smirk tugged at his lips—a silent nod of approval.
Damien loomed over Ethan, shadows cutting across his face, eyes unyielding.
In one swift motion, he grabbed Ethan by the collar and lifted him as if he weighed nothing. Then another punch slammed into his face. Blood spurted instantly.
“You ever disrespect my woman again,” Damien snarled, each word sharp as a blade, “and I won’t just break your jaw. I’ll make you regret every breath you take.”
Another punch connected, sending a tooth snapping free.
Damien shoved him away, letting Ethan crumple to the floor like dead weight.
The room thickened with tension. Every gasp underscored the lethal warning: cross Damien Blackwood, and the cost is far more than pain.
He didn’t give Ethan a c
