Anne thrashed harder. "Let go of me," she cried.
But Denis only tightened his hold. "No," he shouted. "I won't let go. I can't just stand by and watch you walk into danger. Augustine can't protect you. He is helpless. But I can. The Beaumont family can. Don't let emotions blind you. It's time you think wisely."
Before Anne could snap back, a voice ripped through the air like a thunderclap.
"Leave her alone."
The command struck Denis like ice water. His arms faltered, his head jerking toward the source of the voice. But before his eyes could focus, a fist crashed into his face.
The blow sent him reeling, his grip finally tearing away from Anne. He staggered backward, clutching his jaw in shock.
Anne stumbled free, gasping. The adrenaline shook through her limbs, leaving her unsteady.
Denis groaned, rubbing his aching jaw, and slowly lifted his head, eyes burning with both pain and fury. His blurred vision cleared enough to reveal the figure standing tall between him and Anne.
