The she-wolf’s expression shifted quickly from hostility to something more calculating. Her eyes widened slightly, and she took a small step back, clearly intimidated by Liam's hulking presence. “Hey Liam. Nah, there’s no problem at all,” she said, her tone suddenly sweet and false. “Just welcoming Ella to the party.” She flashed a smile that didn’t reach her eyes. Oh, how convenient. Liam didn’t buy her little act for a second. His grip tightened protectively around my waist, and he didn’t take his eyes off her. The tension in the air was palpable, and I could feel my heart hammering in my chest. I was so glad to have Liam here, to be in his arm. I couldn’t believe that I had thought for one second that he wouldn’t be able to protect me when we went to Royal Imperial School. Liam was