39:

ASHLEY

Anita's words came as a shock to me. I didn't expect her to challenge Axel's command. But apparently, she wasn't as scared of him as I was. We all turned as she moved closer to us. Her steps were bold and purposeful. She stopped in front of Axel, with her hands on her waist.

“Why would you take her away? What do you think you are doing?” she asked.

I watched Anita's eyes change from their usual cool green to a blazing yellow. Her eyes flashed as she stood up to Axel, not batting an eyelid. She ran her eyes over the three of them with utmost disgust.

“After everything you put her through! You all stand here like you are under some spell and you want to take her away? Listen, not on my watch!” she said pointing at them.

My eyes enlarged in shock. I blinked repeatedly to signal Anita to calm down but she paid me no attention. She moved over to where I was and pulled my hand from their grip. Then she held me firmly and dragged me to her side. But Brody held on tightly.

“You ca