The sound of the broken wooden post hitting Damon's broad back still echoed in Camilla's mind.
Damon did not let her go. He kept his strong arms wrapped tightly around her small body. He slowly loosened his grip just enough to pull back and look down at her face.
His eyes were wide and searching. The cold, terrifying mask was completely gone. In its place was a look of pure panic.
Damon looked at her, his hands moving gently over her shoulders to check for any hidden injuries.
"Are you alright?" Damon asked quickly. His deep voice was shaking. "Are you hurt anywhere?"
His voice was filled with deep, undeniable concern. He did not care about the sharp, throbbing pain spreading across his own back. He only cared about the woman in his arms.
Camilla stared up at him. Her eyes were completely wide with shock.
"Damon," Camilla whispered softly. Her voice was just a tiny breath of air.
