Page 176 of Filthy Royal

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Anya, hair flying, execute an impressive palm strike to the nose of one of the fuckers coming after Maddox.

Pride surged. He’d taught her that move. Alphas might be bigger and stronger, but a skilled omega fighter could still do some damage against a larger combatant, especially when she had surprise and knowledge on her side.

And, despite her pain, Scarlett was more than holding her own, leaving each attacker she touched not just incapacitated but dead.

Which, he had to admit, was also proving a big help, even as he knew it cost her.

She might not like what she could do, but once they figured out how to keep her gift from hurting her, he was hoping she’d realize just how amazing this new ability could be.

Their galaxy was far from safe, and though he always intended to be by her side, it would give him some peace to know she could protect herself when required.

Damien took out three more. Maddox continued to defend, but he was losing steam, blood everywhere.

Hells.

Fact was, the kid was an incredible fighter—a force to be reckoned with—but he hadn’t yet hit his prime. A quick glance revealed the kid now had a slash across his leg.

But Damien wasn’t going down. He was not losing those he cared about.

Subtly placing his body in front of Maddox, he did his best to draw the guards’ focus and give the kid a break.

He’d take them all down himself if he had to.

He would do whatever it took.

Bruised, bleeding, broken, he didn’t care. No one was taking Scarlett or his family from him.

Before he knew it, there were bodies littered everywhere and what looked like only two rows of attackers still standing from the third wave.

Then there was a commotion behind the guards. Shouts.

Panic in their eyes, a few swiveled, which made it even easier for Damien to take them out, and thus, more died.

Until, suddenly, the ranks of guards were so thin it was possible to see what was causing the commotion: Luc and Kadon.

Taking down guards from their side as well.

Until no live Consortium attackers remained.

Until all that stood between them and escape was Scarlett’s brother and her ex-Alpha lord.

Each splattered in blood. Each looking downright feral. Each brandishing a functioning laser pointed straight at Damien and those he loved.

“Another wave’s coming soon.” Luc stared right at him. “Take yours and go. You might make it. Scarlett stays.”

“No.”

“She belongs with us,” insisted Stormhart.

Damien charged.

27

DAMIEN

“Damien, no!” Scarlett threw herself at him and caught hold of his wrist.

And because he never wanted to hurt her ever again, he pulled up short and swiveled, catching her against him before turning around again.