Raine's POV

The guard's eyebrow rose and he tilted his head. "Of course, he's here. Isn't that why you came?"

Talon growled low and menacing by my side, his hands clenched into fists. The muscles in his forearms flexed and bulged with raw power, making his silent threat clear and unmistakable. 

Immediately, every trace of humor was gone from the guard's expression. His beady eyes trailed over Talon's considerable frame, sizing him up. I wondered what conclusion he came to. Could other vamps recognize, at a glance, what I already knew - Talon was a badass? It was obvious to me, although I suspected even Talon didn't fully understand his...