She took a step back, her voice trembling but defiant. "You're not touching me," she said coldly, glaring at the monster, her disgust clear in her eyes. I won't let you break me, she thought, her heartbeat drumming in her ears.
Benjamin's cold eyes flicked toward her, and for a moment, there was a flicker of something. Amusement? He chuckled softly, "You're a fighter, I'll give you that."
He turned to the horned monster, and after a pause, he said, "Not today." His tone was indifferent, almost bored, as if he couldn't be bothered to let things escalate. "She's still useful for now."
Kyra exhaled shakily, her relief short-lived as she realized she was still at their mercy. Benjamin motioned for her to follow again, and despite her disgust she followed him.
