My eyes shot wide open as I felt a sharp, unexpected pain surge through my leg. Beta's small, fierce teeth were latched onto my calf, her gaze blazing up at me with a look of pure jealousy.
I managed to control the surprised that nearly escaped my lips, glancing over at Athlea, who looked at me, concerned.
"Is everything okay, Austin?" she asked, eyebrows knit in worry.
I forced a calm, reassuring smile, trying to ignore the sting radiating from my leg.
"Yes, it's all okay. Don't worry," I whispered, my voice steady despite the mischievous cat-girl sinking her teeth deeper.
I subtly nudged Beta with my leg, making a slight gesture for her to calm down, promising with a small motion that I'd handle her in private later.
Beta pouted, her ears twitching, but, reluctantly, she released my leg, crossing her arms with a defiant silence. But she held her ground, allowing me a momentary peace.
