****************
CHAPTER 23
~Spring's POV~
Madelyn tried to get up and her knees wobbled. I inhaled and let go, forcing my aura back in.
Madelyn opened her mouth but advised herself against it as she closed her mouth, stood up and hurried away, dragging Liana behind her like a broken train.
I exhaled slowly once they were gone.
The girl's breath trembled behind me, both in relief and fear of me. I turned to her. "You okay?"
She nodded, still shocked from the whole experience. "Th-thank you."
"You don't have to thank me," I said, softening my tone as I helped her to her feet. "You don't owe anyone fear, especially not people like her. Just don't ever let them make you feel small again."
She blinked at me, teary-eyed. "I won't."
"You didn't even need to raise your voice," Jade purred.
"I've learned," I murmured.
"Good because you're not the same girl from last month."
