The loud sound of shattering glass echoed through the quiet library like a gunshot. Shards of sharp crystal rained down across the Persian rug, glittering under the warm light of the stone fireplace.

Before Clara could even draw a breath of air, Jax moved with terrifying speed. His massive frame lunged forward, his strong arms wrapping around her waist and pulling her right off the wooden chair. He slammed his body down onto the thick rug, using his wide shoulders and heavy chest as a protective shield to keep Clara completely safe from the falling glass.

"Stay down," Jax ordered in a deep, rough growl, pressing her small body tight...