"Stay here!"
I barely registered Caspian Kane's command before he stepped in front of me, blocking Colt Knightwood's deadly strike. The impact of their colliding energies shook the room, sending dust cascading from the ceiling.
My vision blurred as blood trickled into my eyes. Every breath felt like fire in my broken ribs. Through the haze of pain, I watched Caspian—a man I'd hardly known—risking everything to save me.
"Get out of my way," Colt snarled, his face twisted with rage. "This doesn't concern you!"
Caspian's voice remained calm. "I can't do that."
"Why risk your life for this nobody?" Colt demanded, readying another attack.
"Because he matters to Miss Ashworth." Caspian's reply was simple but resolute. "And whatever matters to her, matters to me."
I struggled to my feet, leaning against the wall for support. "Caspian... don't."
He didn't turn to look at me. "Knight, you need to leave. Now."
"I can't just—"
