I lost my balance, but a strong hand grasped my waist and pulled me back.

I slipped into Lyon's grasp. I pushed him off me and drew back quickly.

Lyon's eyes narrowed, the menace in them building as he said, "You use and dispose of people. You're quite skilled at that."

I clamped my lips shut in shyness. "Uncle Lyon, thank you for just now, but let us keep our distance."

Lyon stepped in closer, and I reflexively tried to step back but was pressed against the greenhouse door. I couldn't go anywhere. Being this close and able to hear each other's breathing, Lyon looked down at me and then...