Harold stared at Michael, his eyes widened in shock. He could not believe that he dared raise his voice at him. With his jaw tightened, Harold’s hand moved before Michael fully understood what was happening.
The sharp sound echoed through the living room, loud enough to startle the maids lingering just beyond the hallway. Michael’s head snapped to the side as pain exploded across his cheek, heat spreading instantly. He staggered back a step, stunned, his fingers rising slowly to touch his face as if he needed confirmation that it had really happened.
Harold stood rigid, chest rising and falling heavily, his eyes blazing with a fury Michael had never seen directed at him before.
“Have you finally lost your mind?” Harold thundered. His voice filled the room, heavy with authority and somet
