Downstairs, Sebastian wrapped an arm around Valentina and led her to the car.
Once inside, she still clung tightly to his waist. He patted her back gently to soothe her.
"Valentina, it's over now. I'm taking you home."
His voice was soft and tender. He turned to the driver and said, "Let's go."
As the car pulled away, the trembling in his arms slowly subsided.
Sebastian eased her back slightly. His eyes swept over her face and then dropped to her wrists.
"Are you hurt? Magnus... he didn't do anything to you, did he?"
Valentina pressed her lips together and shook her head. But the moment Sebastian's fingers brushed her wrist, she winced in pain.
His heart clenched. He quickly pushed up her sleeve to look. Dark bruises and scratches covered her arm, stark against her skin. They looke
