The man leaned close to her, his breath hot and oppressive against her cheek.

He laughed, low and menacing, like a blade cutting through the air. "Noelle Hartwell, remember—don’t provoke me, or the consequences will be more than you can handle!"

"Don’t worry, Mr. Lockridge. For the sake of my father’s villa, I wouldn’t dare offend you or Mrs. Lockridge."

Noelle’s smile remained radiant and unwavering.

Callum’s expression ...