Claire's sharp gaze zeroed in on Carter again, prompting him to greet her with a smile that burned with intensity. It was as if both of them were silently daring each other to act first, their shared tension almost palpable. Carter sensed Claire's next move, even if he couldn't be completely sure of it. But he knew he had to be certain—and fast. He needed to find an ace up his sleeve. He couldn't afford to take any risks that might put Dahlia in more danger. He would never allow that. "I don't like him much. But at least he keeps his promises. He doesn’t care for you. He has power and wealth, but he always keeps his word. You know that..." Carter looked up at Lucas. "He took the fall for the man you killed and kept quiet about it. I didn’t learn this from Carter—it’s something you’d do.

