Before I could get to her, Charlotte collapsed into the arms of a man I did not know. Racing across the icy bridge, I barely noticed where I stepped. Allowing my instincts to take over, I grabbed Charlotte and cradled her against my chest. “Who are you to touch the Essence?” I barked, eyeing the man suspiciously. “Calvin?” Charlotte whispered, and my heart took off. Hearing my name on her lips almost undid me. I would never get used to the sensation. “Yes, I am here. I am so sorry not to have made it sooner.” I looked down at her, relieved to see color returning to her face. “The better question is what you are doing here, Calvin,” James said. “I am here to protect Charlotte, and to help. I know you have no reason to trust me, but you have no choice.” I tried to keep my voice calm. All that mattered was ensuring Charlotte’s wellbeing. The stranger finally answered, “I am Lawson Ashwell, and before you ask, none of us hurt her.
