Liam could hardly hide the grin tugging at his lips. Walking into the ballroom with Elaine on his arm—confident, composed, stunning—made him feel an unexpected thrill.
He’d fight for her when she needed it. Even if she didn’t need it. Facing off against Lucas wasn’t enough to make him run either. Although Lucas was in the lead for Alpha President, Liam was the kind of wolf that fought for what he wanted regardless.
Right now, that included Elaine.
“I’m not interested in starting anything,” she said quietly, her tone firm but not cold. “I am grateful for what you did earlier. That’s all.”
Liam paused, reading the guarded light in her eyes, then gave a warm, easy smile. “No worries. I’m happy to be your shield.”
He didn’t press further. He walked beside her with the same
