Leonie's face was marked with visible bruises, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears, but what stood out most was the anger and unyielding determination in her expression.
Alaric stood firmly beside her, his sharp gaze sweeping over Ophelia and her friends, a silent warning emanating from him.
"My woman—and you dare disrespect her?" Alaric's voice was low and commanding, filled with an unmistakable authority.
Leonie raised her head, meeting Alaric's gaze. Her heart skipped a beat, but reason reminded her that she shouldn't allow any feelings beyond friendship to take root.
"Apologize to her!" Alaric's tone remained icy and emotionless as he stared at Ophelia, waiting for her response.
Ophelia's expression turned awkward as she faced Alaric's demand.
She hadn't expected him to defend
