"Kids, why don't you go get cleaned up and changed?" she suggested, forcing a reassuring smile for their benefit. "We have...adult matters to discuss."

Ava opened her mouth, no doubt to protest, but Liam caught her eye and shook his head minutely. For once, the typically rambunctious twins obeyed without argument, disappearing down the hallway and leaving Aria alone with Ryker.

An oppressive silence stretched between them until finally, Ryker broke it with a low rumble. "Well? I'm waiting, Aria."

She flinched at the barely contained fury lacing his words, but pushed forward. "I know you must have questions—"

"Questions?" he cut her off, his eyes flashing dangerously. "That's putting...