At the edge of the square, a massive firework tube failed to launch properly and exploded violently on the ground!

One of the most vicious flames shot directly toward where the three of us stood!

Fire!

For werewolves, that bone-deep instinctual terror instantly seized my heart. The scorching, destructive presence was more terrifying than any physical impact.

Serena let out a scream so shrill with terror it cracked, instinctively trying to shrink behind Damon.

But in that instant when the flames burst and heat waves rushed toward us – before I could even react, my body was yanked by a powerful force into a solid embrace!

Damon pulled me protectively against his broad chest and arms almost by reflex! His deep, urgent voice commanded with undeniable authority above my head:

“Aria! Don’t move! There’s fire!”

My entire body went rigid, my mind blank. His familiar yet strange scent filled my nose, my cheek pressed against his violently heaving chest, feeling the wild beating of his heart.

But the next second, Serena’s pain-filled, terrified scream tore through the air:

“Alpha! Save me! The fire… the fire got me! It hurts so much!”

I clearly felt Damon’s body protecting me suddenly stiffen!

Then he pushed me away without hesitation! I couldn’t steady myself, stumbling backward and crashing hard into a cold stone barrier!

“Ah…” My palms scraped roughly against the stone surface, burning pain shooting through them.

I barely noticed the pain, forcing myself to stand and look up—

Damon’s figure had already shot forward like an arrow toward Serena, who was crouched on the ground covering her arm and crying pitifully.

He swept her up in his arms with unprecedented urgency and gentleness. In the firelight, his handsome face showed complete panic and undisguised heartache, his eyes even reddening with worry.