Every bit as gratifying as we had imagined

Leo’s POV

Shadow's ears pricked up, detecting the distant rumble of the approaching van long before it came into view. My heart pounded in my chest, and with every breath, I struggled to draw in air, my lungs laboring as fear of what could happen, began to sink in. Yet, amidst this overwhelming dread, my concern was not for my own safety. I was willing to put my life on the line and die tonight, just as long as Arabella could live to see another day. And for once, Shadow wholeheartedly agreed.

As the van made its turn, Shadow sprang into motion. We had rehearsed our strategy repeatedly, and despite its uncertainties, it was the best we could come up with to minimise any risk of our mate, becoming harmed.

Shadow swiftly scaled the vehicle, positioning himself over the central hatch. As it swung open, he lunged at the man emerging, his teeth and claws tearing into him. The man's tactical gear might have been bulletproof, but it offered no protection against Shadow's ferocious attack.

Th