**Chapter 8: Stan's Protective Instincts**

Stan's eyes locked onto Lucas's menacing figure, his jaw clenched in anger as he strode into the room. The air was thick with tension, and Dorothy's fear was palpable. Without hesitation, Stan inserted himself between Lucas and Dorothy, his broad frame a formidable barrier. "Lucas, that's enough," Stan repeated, his deep voice firm and commanding. He stood tall, his eyes blazing with a warning that brooked no argument. Lucas's eyes narrowed, his face twisted in a snarl as he took a step back, his fists clenched at his sides. For a moment, it seemed like he was going to lash out at Stan, but then he seemed to think better of it. His gaze darted between Stan and Dorothy, his eyes flashing with anger and humiliation. "Mind your own business, Stan," Lucas spat, trying to regain his composure. "This is my business," Stan replied, his voice unwavering. "Dorothy is under my protection, and I won't let you harm her." Lucas sneered, but Stan could see the fear lurking behind his eyes. He knew that Lucas was a coward, and that he wouldn't dare to take on Stan. "You're just a foolish old man," Lucas sneered, trying to save face. "You think you can protect her? Ha! I'll always be able to get to her." Stan's eyes flashed with anger, but he kept his cool. He knew that Lucas was trying to provoke him, to get a rise out of him. But Stan wasn't going to fall for it. "I'm warning you, Lucas," Stan said, his voice low and even. "Leave Dorothy alone. Don't come back here, don't contact her, don't try to hurt her in any way. If you do, you'll have to answer to me." Lucas's face went white, and for a moment, Stan thought he was going to lash out. But then, he seemed to think better of it. He turned and stormed out of the room, leaving Stan and Dorothy staring after him. Dorothy let out a breathless sigh, her eyes shining with tears. Stan immediately wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice soft with concern. Dorothy nodded, her face buried in his chest. "Y-yes," she stammered. "Thank you, Stan. Thank you for stopping him." Stan held her close, his arms wrapping tightly around her. "You're welcome, Dorothy," he said. "I'll always be here to protect you." As they stood there, Dorothy felt a sense of safety wash over her. She knew that she was lucky to have Stan in her life, and she was grateful for his presence. Stan held her close, his heart pounding with anger and protectiveness. He knew that Lucas was a threat, and he was determined to keep him away from Dorothy. He would do whatever it took to keep her safe, to keep her happy. As they stood there, the tension in the room began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of calm and security. Dorothy knew that she was safe, and that Stan would always be there to keep her that way.