(Audrey's POV)
I watched in astonishment as Mia Silverleaf stood her ground against Mrs. Shadowcrest, her young face flushed with righteous indignation. The shy, sweet assistant I thought I knew had transformed into a fierce protector before my eyes.
"Madam, you and your daughter are even more disgusting than the pack rumors suggest..." Mia's words hung in the air, sharp and unyielding.
Mrs. Shadowcrest's face contorted with rage. She raised her hand, clearly intending to strike Mia. Without thinking, I moved forward, pulling Mia behind me protectively.
"Come at me instead," I challenged, my emerald eyes locking with Mrs. Shadowcrest's. My wolf bristled beneath my skin, ready to defend.
But Mia wasn't intimidated. She peered around me, her voice surprisingly steady. "Didn't you say you didn't want this healing formula anymore, and that Emma should stop trying it?"
Mrs. Shadowcrest's laugh was cold enough to freeze blood. Her eyes swept over Mia with contempt.
"You're just a smal
