Adam scoffed silently, crossing his arms over his chest. "No."

"Are you being honest with me?" I pressed, keeping my face locked in a hard, unyielding mask.

"Yes, I am," Adam replied, his tone obedient at first, before his brow furrowed in sudden irritation. "But what is the meaning of this? What the hell are you trying to do right now?"

"Did you meet with—or conduct business with—any syndicate figures while you were in New York?" I demanded instead.

This time, Adam scoffed out loud, a harsh, incredulous sound. "If you want answers, you should start by answering me first."

"I demand an answer, Adam," I said authoritatively, my voice...