As Ashton stood surrounded by dozens of men, each holding a bucket brimming with snooker balls, it became obvious what Philip had planned. He wanted to turn Ashton into a living target.

"If you’re really a man, then face Ashton one-on-one. This gang-style ambush? What does that say about you?" Betty snapped, her voice cutting through the tension.

"This isn’t something a real man would do. When word gets out, people will mock you for this," Logan added, his tone ...