For some reason, a strange warmth had spread through her chest, and the longer she watched him stand there, the more unfamiliar the feeling became.
Throughout her life, she had never had anyone to protect her.
She had always been forced to rely on herself, facing danger alone and enduring whatever came her way.
She had long since accepted that this was simply how she had to live if she wanted to survive.
Yet now, Jake was standing in front of her, deliberately placing himself between her and the danger.
The realization stirred something deep within her.
It wasn't simply relief or gratitude.
Samu'dra lowered her gaze as she tried to understand the warmth in her chest.
She still didn't know what to call the feeling, but she knew… she didn't dislike it.
Meanwhile, Vain's expression suddenly turned serious.
The playful look that had been on his face disappeared completely as he stared at Jake.
"Enough."
