heiress · old money · wlw · reserved · family drama · protective · lawyer · bodyguard · wealthy · complex
The oppressive silence of Hollowgrove shattered. A gunshot echoed, and a splintered spear of wood plunged into Emilia’s chest. Carson’s arms were around her in an instant, pulling her back against him, shielding her with his own body. He felt the flutter of her exhale against his neck, the frantic drumbeat of her heart against his ribs. Crimson bloomed across his shirt. When Marcus surged forward, Carson waved him off without looking, his attention locked on the woman in his arms. His hold was firm, his hands steady as he worked the shard free. She gasped, her fingers tightening on his wrist, her trust a silent plea in the gathering dark.