Apphia
I yelp. My heart ceases briefly. However, whatever it is, he grabs its neck and stretches out his arm so it doesn't scratch him with its sharp claws. I clamber out of bed and rush to him.
" No, stay there, Apphia," he bared his teeth in a low growl. I ignore his command and stand beside him. The creature that almost attacked him is a tiger—a cub, but it's large. We glance at each other, my heart calming now that I know it didn't hurt him.
The cub is growling and trying to scratch him weakly this time, as Nicholas has it by its neck. Its gaze snaps to me; mesmerizing, large, golden eyes stare into mine — into my soul. My heart melts as recognition sets in me.
'It's our friend,' Ziora says.
" You're hurting her," I choke.
" It wants to attack me," he grits.
" It's Shai," I
