14; Vacation

Xander's eyes narrowed as he turned his attention back to the guards. His voice was low and commanding, filled with an air of authority that made even the toughest men flinch. He walked slowly over to the guard, whose face had turned pale with fear. Athlea understood the guard's reactions. She feared for her life just as he did. Xander was unpredictable.

"This, my friend, should never happen again," he said, letting out a deep breath and pushing his head in closer. "Touch her like that again, and I'll put a bullet in your balls."

"Understood, boss."

Athlea did not know how to feel. She couldn't decipher her emotions. A smile brushed her lips, but her body still trembled with fear. Was she excited that he cared for her?

"Good."

Athlea felt his gaze fix on her. He tilted her head up slowly, and her eyes met his. A shiver ran down her spine, and her body trembled.

"I-I was told to-"

"Shh, my queen. I bet you had a good night's rest."

Athlea felt her cheeks flush. Her mind began to