cat being protective?

Every time my mom and I get into an argument my cat who is very attached to me gets in the middle of it and lays on my lap
Or stomach the entire time we argue and gives my mom this glare. Ive heard and seen of dogs doing this but not cats
Why would she jump in the middle like she does trying to protect me

She could be stressed by you agruing and is seeking comfort.Or she could be trying to keep you safe. I had a big tom growing up who would growl at anyone who threatened any of the human or feline residents of his domain, but was otherwise a big cuddlesuck.