Ayla's pov

Nova's broken claw burns a hole in my jacket pocket all through the morning classes. Every time I shift, it pricks my thigh like a warning I cannot ignore.

Zane leans over during history, his breath warm against my ear. "Stop touching it. You're making me want to snap her neck in the hallway."

I glance at him only to realize that his usual smirk is gone, replaced by something sharper. "It's just a threat, Zane. She has actually done worse."

Ryker's hand lands on my knee under the desk, heavy and steady. "Not anymore.".His voice is low, meant only for me. "If she comes near you again...