Clément had already been having a rough day before a girl stumbled into his arms.

And now? He was holding her to his chest — hiding both her and himself from the approaching men. If he hadn’t felt the distinct hum of magic upon touching her skin, he would’ve left her to the hunters.

And yet.

He glanced down at her, brows furrowing.

“Are you dense?? Why would you come to me? Of all people.” He grumbled, beginning to help her forward. One of his arms was draped around her waist, the other pulsing with magic as he concealed them through runes.

“Bordel de merde.”

He cursed under his breath as his power slipped and the men shouted, sprinting towards them.