Chapter 324

Emmeline drew in a sharp, shuddering breath.

“Neither Yuna nor anyone else can destroy me!” The words erupted from Zavian’s throat, each syllable carved with steel-edged conviction. His jaw clenched and his muscles there ticked with barely anger. “If you believe her words, then you don’t know me at all, little one.”

Warmth bloomed across Emmeline’s tear-stained cheeks.

Zavian palms cupped her face. His thumbs traced gentle paths across her skin, catching the tears that continued to fall despite his tender ministrations. The contrast between his fierce words and gentle touch made her heart flutter.

“She targets you because you’re the easiest mark in her eyes,” his eyes darkened with protective fury. “I won’t let her harm you. Do you understand what I’m saying, Emmeline?”

Their gazes locked, and Emmeline felt herself drowning in the depths of his eyes. Even through the tempest of her emotions, she found an anchor in his unwavering stare.

The intensi