Chapter 52: Brothers and Betrayals
Damon's POV
The moment Daryl's growl echoed through the clearing, my instincts took over. I did not shift into my wolf form, but something else awakened in me. It was sharper, stronger, and more protective than anything I had ever felt before.
"Stay away from her," Daryl repeated in a low, guttural growl.
I stepped in front of Ciara, shielding her with my body. She clung to the back of my arm, her fingers trembling and her breaths shallow. I could still feel her fear. It pressed against me like a second heartbeat. The rhythm of it thudded into my spine and made the storm rising in front of me feel even more dangerous.
“Damon...” she whispered, her voice small and afraid.
“Do not worry, Ciara. You are safe now. I will not let anything happen to you,”
