Page 105 of Seeking Shadows

Zane, on the other hand, says nothing.

He doesn’t need to. The way he stands there, watchful, says it all. He doesn’t trust Seth. And honestly? He shouldn’t.

Seth has made it clear, more than once, that given the chance, he’d hurt Zane.

But he won’t. Because that would mean hurting me. And I know my brotherwouldn’t hurt me.

Seth watches for a moment, his eyes assessing every reaction. Then, he smirks.

“What’s wrong? Not going to say anything?”

Zane remains silent.

Seth tilts his head, amused. “Don’t tell me you’re afraid of me.”

“Stop being a jerk. Not everyone likes confrontation,” I snap.

“She speaks for you now.”

"I do! And I beat people up for him too—so don't even think about touching him unless you wanna get your ass kicked!"

Zane sighs, dragging a hand through his dark hair, as if this whole thing is just disturbing his peace. Luckily, Seth doesn’t comment on the hair change. Not that he’d care about that detail.

“It’s okay, little angel. He won’t hurt you.”

“I never promised anything,” Seth mutters.

“I think I’ll get a drink,” Zane says finally, standing up.

“Great idea,” Seth says, still watching him. “Go for it.”

He doesn’t say it, but the message is clear:You know I could break you if I wanted to.

And Zane understands.

He gives me a quick glance, almost as if asking if I’ll really be okay with Seth. I smile.

“Do you think I would hurt Mia?” Seth growls.

“Yes.”

“It’syouI have a problem with.”

“And why would you have a problem with me?” Zane turns around, and I stare at him in complete shock.

I can feel the fear radiating off him, but his stance? Oh no, that tells a very different story. He’s doing a damn good job at masking it, standing there like some fearless warrior ready to throw hands.

For me.

Which is both incredibly sweet and mildly concerning.

It’s probably not the wisest choice to pick a fight with One.

But I can’t deny it—seeing Zane’s protective side gives me butterflies. Big, dramatic, over-the-top butterflies that practically throw a parade in my stomach.

It’s ridiculous, really.

Completely, hopelessly melting.

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