BOTH Marcus and Julian turned sharply the moment Charles breathed out the name.

“Shantel,” he had said.

Marcus’ brows shot up. Julian’s mouth slowly curved into a knowing grin.

Charles turned slightly away from them, lowering his voice.

“What do you want?”

On the other end, a soft chuckle floated through the speaker. That smooth, familiar and dangerous one she was good at giving.

“Yo! Is that how you answer your woman?” Shantel teased. “After all this time?”

“I am not your—” He cut himself off, teeth clenching. “What is the meaning of this nonsense? How dare you call my number again after I warned you?”

“My love…” she cooed,...