Thea’s expression turned lethal.
She slammed the car into reverse, the screech of tires silencing the two guardians instantly. She pulled up flush against them, her gaze cold enough to freeze blood.
"I am a business partner to your Master," she stated, her voice carrying the razor-edge of a dominant female. "He pays the tribute, and I provide the kill. You see me exhausted every day because I run the hard trails. Do you truly think there are canaries in this world who survive through such brutal labor? If I were a pampered pet, my claws wouldn't be this sharp."
The two guards lowered their heads, their heartbeats fluttering in fear. "Our apologies, Ms. Thea... we were merely barking in jest."
"Your jest lacks teeth," Thea countered. "It insults my honor. You insist on crediting my pelt
