Draven’s POV
I stepped closer, and before anyone could react, I wrapped my arms around Brittany, pulling her into what I knew would look like an embrace.
The crowd gasped, and I felt her freeze against me, her arms hanging limply at her sides.
“It's okay,” I said, keeping my voice low and soothing, tasting the false comfort of the words. “You're just scared. I understand. Let me help you.”
Her lips parted, and for a moment, I watched indecision flicker across her face. Then, as I slid my hand up to her neck, I saw the exact instant realization dawned in her eyes.
I tightened my fingers around her throat, satisfaction coursing through me as I lifted her off the ground.
The crowd erupted into chaos around me, their yells and gasps a distant noise as Brittany clawed desperately at my ha
