But he was controlling himself, I tightened my grip on my guard's hand, holding him back from attacking Asher. I knew that if he did, it would be disastrous. Asher was a powerful wolf, and my guard, no matter how skilled, was no match for him.

Asher's eyes gleamed with challenge, his body tense and ready to spring into action. "You want to fight me?" he repeated, his voice low and menacing.

My guard's face was set in a fierce expression, his eyes blazing with anger. But I knew he wouldn't back down. He was loyal to me, and he would defend me to the death.

Just as it seemed...