The knock echoed through Kendrick's office.
Three sharp taps.
Measured.
Deliberate.
Damian's heart slammed against his ribs.
"Not again," he whispered.
The sound of those footsteps had already tightened something deep inside his chest. His instincts were reacting before logic could catch up. The air felt heavier than it had a moment ago. Warmer. Tense.
Dangerous.
Kendrick's posture had already changed.
The calm corporate heir vanished instantly, replaced by something colder. More alert. More controlled. His shoulders squared slightly. His breathing slowed. Every movement sharpened with quiet precision.
His instincts had awakened the moment Damian's scent shifted.
"Stay behind me," Kendrick said quietly.
Damian didn't argue.
This time, there was no sarcasm. No resistance. No hesitation.
He stepped back as Kendrick moved toward the door.
The bond pulsed again.
Stronger this time.
Not subtle.
Not gentle.
