Joanne’s POV
“Breathe slowly,” Alexander’s words echoed through my head as his strong arms remained around me. He had lifted me off the ground, and a small whimper of pain escaped my lips.
I saw the shadow of the woman disappearing through the crowd; the surprised gasps and yelps surrounded me.
The roses lay forgotten on the ground, as did the dagger, and the King rose to his feet.
Vampire warriors, along with James, were already running in the direction of the woman. The crowd parted, allowing Alexander to rush me out of the ballroom; whispers and accusations followed us.
By the time Alexander carried me into the safety of a side chamber, my breathing had eased. Shallow, but no longer clawing. He set me gently onto the cushioned set, his eyes narrowing as he studied me.
“Was it
