Ryder.

The meeting with the new Chinese clients had been exhausting. Three straight hours of negotiations, veiled threats, and power plays just to secure a deal that should have taken thirty minutes. My jaw was tight, my shoulders stiff with tension. Another long day of reminding people why they should fear crossing me.

I leaned back against the cool leather seat of the car, loosening my tie with one hand as Devon drove us through the city. The tinted windows blocked out the glaring evening sun, but nothing could block the low thrum of irritation still buzzing under my skin.

I picked up my tablet, intending to review the contract...