Ethan Lancaster, who had been radiating cold, intimidating energy just moments ago, suddenly softened. His demeanor shifted into one of warmth and gentleness. Shaking his head, he smiled and said, “How could I ever kill someone?”

“Then have you had Leo or the others do it for you?” Ivy asked skeptically.

“They’re retired special forces soldiers—legitimate veterans. Whatever they did in the past isn’t my concern, but under my employ, they’ve never ...