21 Chapter 21 His Protection Caroline's POV 1 I coordinated with Kyle about the confidential financial report meeting scheduled for tomorrow and sent Clara a message to confirm if the timing worked for her . With those arrangements settled , I returned to my other tasks . An hour later , the door to Draven's office flew open with such force it nearly rattled the hinges . He loomed over me , his hands gripping my chair's armrests , caging me in . His violet eyes blazed with an intensity that made Rory whimper inside me , and when he spoke , his voice was deeper and rougher than usual . " Caroline , hear me clearly . This situation between us ends today , no exceptions . Clear your schedule for this evening because we're leaving this office together and having a proper adult conversation about what's happening here ." His gaze lingered on me for a moment before he abruptly straightened , turned away , and slammed his door shut behind him . I was still recovering from the encounter when Ryan appeared , looking puzzled . " Caroline , did something happen with Draven during the video conference ? " I blinked several times , composing myself before answering . " Nothing I'm aware of . Why do you ask ? " The lie slipped easily from my lips . " He was completely distracted , like his mind was somewhere else entirely , " Ryan explained , glancing at Draven's door . " By the way , I've already checked with Clara , and tonight you two are joining us for dinner . I won't accept any excuses . " " I'd love to , Ryan , as long as my Alpha doesn't object , " I replied , unable to keep the sarcasm from my voice . " Your Alpha has plenty of other things to worry about right now ! " Ryan quipped as he entered Draven's office . I quickly sent Eleanor a message , explaining I'd be home late because of a dinner engagement and asking if Mabel could stay longer to watch Liam . Elle responded almost immediately , assuring me she'd personally spoil her godson while I enjoyed my evening . Her supportive message brought a smile to my face . My moment of peace was shattered when Howard stormed into the reception area . He was unnaturally tall and thin , with a ridiculous mustache , graying hair , and predatory eyes that reminded me of a fox stalking its prey . Something about him had set off my wolf's warning instinct the moment Clara introduced us . He halted before my desk , looking down at me with contempt and fury . " So you're the one who humiliated my daughter yesterday . Because of you , Draven embarrassed her and his Beta dragged her out like trash . Listen carefully , worthless bitch , this won't be tolerated . I'll make sure he throws you out of this company faster than you can blink . " He slammed his fist on my desk and turned toward Draven's door . Despite being startled , my protective instincts kicked in . I leapt to my feet and pressed myself against the door , blocking his path . " Mr. Howard , I must insist you wait while I check if Alpha Draven is available . I apologize , but those are pack protocols . " 07:39 712 21 Chapter 2 THIS Protection The man's face contorted with rage . Before I could react , his hand shot out and gripped my throat , his voice rising to a shout , " Who the hell do you think you are , you pathetic little Beta ? I'm the most senior elder of Storm Valley Pack and the financial director of this company ! I go where I please , when I please , and you're nothing but a worthless nobody to stand in my way . " Suddenly , the door behind me burst open . I felt strong arms wrap around my waist , pulling me away from Howard's choking grip . Draven's cedarwood and musky scent enveloped me as he tucked me safely against his chest . The financial director immediately began his accusations . " Draven , you won't believe the disrespect this woman just showed me ! " Pressed against Draven's chest , I could feel his breathing deepen with barely contained fury . His voice emerged cold and deadly , the voice of an Alpha protecting what's his . " Howard , lower your voice immediately . Let me make several things absolutely clear . First , from what I heard perfectly well , Ms. Bennett didn't disrespect you ; you attacked her , and you will apologize . Second , she isn't some secretary ; she's my executive assistant who has my complete confidence . Third , you're well aware of the protocol for entering an Alpha's office ; that hasn't changed . Fourth , and most critically , if this is how you treat pack members under my protection , your position in both this company and our pack needs serious reconsideration . " " But Alpha Draven ..." Howard began , his tone suddenly pleading , but Draven silenced him with a low growl that vibrated through his chest against my back . " You are never to come to the executive floor uninvited again . " Draven's voice carried the edge of an Alpha command that made even my own wolf want to submit . " Linda , come here ." Linda appeared in my office instantly , her wolf clearly sensing the Alpha's call . " Yes , Alpha Draven . " " Linda , escort Mr. Howard to the elevators and schedule a meeting between us for tomorrow morning , first thing . The meeting will be in his office . Report back to me after he's gone ." " Of course , Alpha . Mr. Howard , this way please . " Linda's tone was professionally courteous , but her eyes gleamed with satisfaction at Howard's humiliation . " One more thing , Howard , " Draven's voice dropped to an even more dangerous register . " If you ever lay a hand on Ms. Bennett or any other member of my pack or company again , you'll answer to me not as CEO , but as Alpha . Do you understand ? " Draven , still holding me protectively against him , guided me into his office and closed the door . His grip remained firm as he led me to the chair opposite his desk and gently seated me . Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!