Shielding the Viper

Sloane's chin lifted, her voice low but vibrating with a rage that threatened to crack the marble floor. "I warned you. Every insult she spits at my parents earns her a blow. She still owes me one more."

Silas stepped forward, shoulders squared. "I won't allow you to lay another finger on her."

Sloane did not flinch. "And what if I decide I must?"

He planted himself in front of Bianca, arms spread