I was stunned. A wave of warmth washed over me at his clumsy show of concern. "...Thanks." "Whatever," he mumbled, looking away, though the tips of his ears turned faintly pink. Just as I took the offerings, Tabitha and her clique swarmed over like sharks scenting blood. "Well, well, look who it is?" Tabitha said, her voice dripping with sarcasm, her eyes darting between Jim and me. "Found yourself a new protector already? Or have you been playing the brothers against each other all along?" My grip tightened on the cup, my knuckles white. Jim stepped forward, placing himself squarely between me and Tabitha. He didn"t even need to exert any Alpha pressure; just the cold look in his green eyes was enough. His voice was low, but held a clear warning. "Stay away from her, Amota. I won"t say it
