Chapter 184

She was yanked straight into a solid wall of muscle. That warm, woody cologne of his wrapped around her, slipping into every breath she took—it was overwhelming. His arm tightened around her waist, fingers cool and slender lifting her chin—forcing her eyes up to meet his. And sure enough, there they were: his eyes, sharp as ever, burning with a dangerous glint. "Why’d you rush to pull her back?" His voice was soft, almost too gentle. “…To have her protect me.” Claire Richards pulled a face, eyes wide and pitiful, practically begging. Julian Archer leaned in, his cheek brushing closer. A subtle trace of Maotai on his breath mingled with the heat brushing her skin. "Protect you? Claire, what kind of trouble are you in that has you looking for protection? Hmm? How about I do it instead?" His voice was low, warm, even doting—but that grip he had on her waist? Complete opposite. Claire’s brain screamed: Yup, he’s seriously pissed. Without missing a beat, she hugged his arm. "Don’t be mad, o