"Seraphina!" Kaelen's voice cut through the haze of my wolf's rage like a knife.
Mid-lunge, I felt his hands grab me around the waist, pulling me back against his chest with firm but gentle force. My wolf thrashed against his restraint, a snarl still vibrating in my throat.
"Easy," he murmured against my ear, his voice low and commanding. "Easy, little wolf. He meant no disrespect."
The heat of his body pressed against mine sent calming waves through our bond. I felt his wolf reaching for mine, not with dominance but with reassurance. My racing heart began to slow as Kaelen held me securely.
Across the room, Jasper stood frozen, eyes wide with shock. To his credit, he hadn't shifted to defend himself, which would have only escalated the situation.
"I... I'm sorry," I managed to say as my wolf reluctantly retreated, leaving me mortified. My fangs retracted and I felt my features return to normal. "I don't know what came over me."
