CHAPTER 21: CHAPTER 21 HIS PROTECTION

Caroline’s POV

I coordinated with Kyle about the confidential financial report meeting scheduled for tomorrow and sent Clara a message to confirm if the timing worked for her. With those arrangements settled, I returned to my other tasks.

An hour later, the door to Draven’s office flew open with such force it nearly rattled the hinges. He loomed over me, his hands gripping my chair’s armrests, caging me in. His violet eyes blazed with an intensity that made Rory whimper inside me, and when he spoke, his voice was deeper and rougher than usual.

"Caroline, hear me clearly. This situation between us ends today, no exceptions. Clear your schedule for this evening because we’re leaving this office together and having a proper adult conversation about what’s happening here."

His gaze lingered on me for a moment before he abruptly straightened, turned away, and slammed his door shut behind him. I was still recovering from the encounter when Ryan appeared, looking puzzled.

"Caroline, did something happen with Draven during the video conference?"

I blinked several times, composing myself before answering.

"Nothing I’m aware of. Why do you ask?" The lie slipped easily from my lips.

"He was completely distracted, like his mind was somewhere else entirely," Ryan explained, glancing at Draven’s door. "By the way, I’ve already checked with Clara, and tonight you two are joining us for dinner. I won’t accept any excuses."

"I’d love to, Ryan, as long as my Alpha doesn’t object," I replied, unable to keep the sarcasm from my voice.

"Your Alpha has plenty of other things to worry about right now!" Ryan quipped as he entered Draven’s office.

I quickly sent Eleanor a message, explaining I’d be home late because of a dinner engagement and asking if Mabel could stay longer to watch Liam. Elle responded almost immediately, assuring me she’d personally spoil her godson while I enjoyed my evening. Her supportive message brought a smile to my face.

My moment of peace was shattered when Howard stormed into the reception area. He was unnaturally tall and thin, with a ridiculous mustache, graying hair, and predatory eyes that reminded me of a fox stalking its prey. Something about him had set off my wolf’s warning instinct the moment Clara introduced us.

He halted before my desk, looking down at me with contempt and fury.

"So you’re the one who humiliated my daughter yesterday. Because of you, Draven embarrassed her and his Beta dragged her out like trash. Listen carefully, worthless bitch, this won’t be tolerated. I’ll make sure he throws you out of this company faster than you can blink."

He slammed his fist on my desk and turned toward Draven’s door. Despite being startled, my protective instincts kicked in. I leapt to my feet and pressed myself against the door, blocking his path.

"Mr. Howard, I must insist you wait while I check if Alpha Draven is available. I apologize, but those are pack protocols."

The man’s face contorted with rage. Before I could react, his hand shot out and gripped my throat, his voice rising to a shout, "Who the hell do you think you are, you pathetic little Beta? I’m the most senior elder of Storm Valley Pack and the financial director of this company! I go where I please, when I please, and you’re nothing but a worthless nobody to stand in my way."

Suddenly, the door behind me burst open. I felt strong arms wrap around my waist, pulling me away from Howard’s choking grip. Draven’s cedarwood and musky scent enveloped me as he tucked me safely against his chest.

The financial director immediately began his accusations. "Draven, you won’t believe the disrespect this woman just showed me!"

Pressed against Draven’s chest, I could feel his breathing deepen with barely contained fury. His voice emerged cold and deadly, the voice of an Alpha protecting what’s his.

"Howard, lower your voice immediately. Let me make several things absolutely clear. First, from what I heard perfectly well, Ms. Bennett didn’t disrespect you; you attacked her, and you will apologize. Second, she isn’t some secretary; she’s my executive assistant who has my complete confidence. Third, you’re well aware of the protocol for entering an Alpha’s office; that hasn’t changed. Fourth, and most critically, if this is how you treat pack members under my protection, your position in both this company and our pack needs serious reconsideration."

"But Alpha Draven..." Howard began, his tone suddenly pleading, but Draven silenced him with a low growl that vibrated through his chest against my back.

"You are never to come to the executive floor uninvited again." Draven’s voice carried the edge of an Alpha command that made even my own wolf want to submit. "Linda, come here."

Linda appeared in my office instantly, her wolf clearly sensing the Alpha’s call.

"Yes, Alpha Draven."

"Linda, escort Mr. Howard to the elevators and schedule a meeting between us for tomorrow morning, first thing. The meeting will be in his office. Report back to me after he’s gone."

"Of course, Alpha. Mr. Howard, this way please." Linda’s tone was professionally courteous, but her eyes gleamed with satisfaction at Howard’s humiliation.

"One more thing, Howard," Draven’s voice dropped to an even more dangerous register. "If you ever lay a hand on Ms. Bennett or any other member of my pack or company again, you’ll answer to me not as CEO, but as Alpha. Do you understand?"

Draven, still holding me protectively against him, guided me into his office and closed the door. His grip remained firm as he led me to the chair opposite his desk and gently seated me.