Douglas POV
Watching Jessica as she kept the vipers at bay was magical. For the first time, I felt relaxed around my mother. Jessica was my armor, keeping her claws away. It was a good feeling. I had never felt the need for someone's protection; I was a strong, assertive man, except around my mother. Don't get me wrong, I am not a mommy's boy, but she can get what she wants. Both Dad and I often let her have her way, because it was the easy way out, but not tonight and not with whom I am to marry. This is the only area in which I have fought her constantly over the years.
Dad enjoyed Jessica's company. She was a breath of fresh air, and I am seeing her in a new light.
I had seen her in a meeting go up against strong opponents and win, but this is different, and Jessica's skills are ma
