Madam Baker’s words were truly cutting, leaving no room for mercy.

It made sense. No one in River City dared to offend Richard, but this was Amber City, where the three big families called the shots.

The once-mighty Blackwood family now relied solely on Richard, without any backup. Add to that the scandal with Susan and William, and Richard could easily become a target if he wasn't careful.

He probably had to simply take it when Madam Baker spoke to him like ...