Page 298 of Black Reign

His restraint breaks.

“Why?”

The word explodes through the room.

“Why is this the hill you've chosen? You have spent your entire life protecting this company. You've ended careers for less than what she has done. Men twice your age are afraid to lie in the same room with you because you will take their entire lives apart before lunch.”

His palms hit the table.

“Where is that man?”

I don't answer.

“Where is my son who doesn't hesitate?”

Still nothing.

“Who doesn't get sentimental?”

My eyes move involuntarily toward the hallway.

He sees it.

His face changes.

Disbelief first.

Then something close to horror.

“No.”

I look back.

He exhales slowly.

“No.”

“What?”

“You're in love with her.”

The words hit differently when someone else says them.

I keep my expression blank.

My father laughs once.

It sounds almost shocked.

“Unbelievable.”

“This conversation is over.”

“Answer me.”

“No.”

“Are you in love with Adrien Beaumont’s daughter?”