"Mr. Parker, you didn't give us any notice," I said calmly. "We weren't prepared for a visit, and I have no idea what exactly you're here to inspect."

Theodore replied smoothly, "I just want to take a look around the company, check in on the staff. I value Blue Knight, that's why I came in person."

I gave him a polite smile, though my words carried a different meaning. "I'd honestly prefer it if you didn't value us quite so much."

He understood the ...