Xavier’s POV
The moment the last rogue hit the ground, my head snapped toward Mia. My heart slammed against my ribs, my wolf roaring in my head.
She was alive.
But she was hurt.
Blood smeared her skin, a small cut on her cheek, a rip in her shirt exposing a deep scratch along her shoulder. It was already healing, but I didn’t care.
She was injured.
Because I wasn’t here in time.
I crossed the space between us in two strides, my hands gripping her waist firmly, my body caging hers before she could move.
I didn’t give a damn if she fought me.
I needed to see for myself.
I tilted her chin up roughly, scanning her face, my thumb brushing over the cut as my teeth clenched. “Who did this to you?” My voice was low, raw, barely controlled.
Mia jerked away, eyes flashing with fury. “It’s
