Page 127 of The Broken Keys

“Use the tactics you did with the Aspen crash.” His jaw sets. “Find them and handle it. That’s all I’m asking.”

“You ordered the Aspen incident.”

“But you supplied the resources because you wanted them out.”

It’s true, but it was out of necessity. I’m stuck and I know it.

“All right.” I stand, extending my hand. “Consider your favor called in.”

His grip is firm and final. “I knew I could count on you.”

The weight of his request settles on my shoulders. He wants vengeance. I want the same thing. The difference is, I’m already hunting them.

Clicking heels on a marble floor echoes down the hallway. Laughter follows, and my heart stops. I’d know that laugh anywhere.

Livianna. My pulse speeds up, but I stay facing Greg, praying my expression isn’t giving me away.

“Hi, Daddy.” Livianna’s sweet voice seeps into my soul.

“Darling, what are you two doing here?” Greg steps around me.

I turn with his movement and there she is.

God, she’s beautiful even with fading bruises that remain around her left eye and cheek. But she’s not alone.

Cash is by her side, and they’re holding hands. He and I make eye contact, but he darts his gaze toward Greg.

“Hi, Mr. Hemings. I thought you’d like to see Lily today.” Cash slides his hands into his pockets.

“Cash, you’ve always been respectful of my feelings. Thanks for bringing her by.” Greg hugs Livianna. “You just missed your mom.”

“Oh, that’s too bad. Where’d she go?” Livianna gazes up at Greg.

“She’s on her way to a modeling job in Hawaii.” He kisses the top of her head. “How are you doing since you got home?”

“I’m doing better, Daddy.” She pulls back from theembrace, smiling up at him. “Still sore, but getting stronger every day.”

I’m frozen by her beauty. I can’t look away.

The way she moves, how she tilts her head when she speaks, the shine in her blue eyes when she smiles. Everything about her is achingly familiar. And completely out of reach.

“That’s wonderful to hear.” Greg keeps his arm around her shoulders and gestures to me. “It’s by luck Jaxon is here. Maybe you two can talk about your business and he can try to bring you up to date.”

Her eyes find mine and there’s just polite interest directed at me.

“Jaxon.” She extends her hand. “I’ve heard you helped bring Lehlani Rose Designs to life.”

I take her hand, keeping my grip professional even though every nerve in my body is begging to pull her close.

Her skin is warm against mine, and it’s almost too much. My heart starts racing from pure elation at the sight of her.

“It’s good to see you, Livianna.” I release her hand before the contact lasts too long. “You look like you’re healing well.”

“I am. Callum’s been a great help.” She sends him a loving gaze, and I want to rip the stupid, love-struck beating muscle from my chest.

Cash shifts beside her, tension radiating off him. He knows how much this is costing me.

She faces me, curious but distant. “I’m interested in knowing how my family got you to work with me.”