Anderson gave a long sigh, his fingers working around his temple. He extended his hand then grabbed the wine and pushed it down his throat in one gulp, his eyes closing to savor the burn. It did nothing to quench the fire in his heart, however, and worked to only flame it harder.

"The meeting was a complete disaster, and you should know better than to approach Conaan like that. He is even more ruthless than his father."

Anderson nodded, looking up to Lucas, who seemed to be his exact opposite. He was rather relaxed, except for the fine line between his brows.

"I thought he would cower with just...