Richard's expression darkened like an approaching storm. With a chilling chuckle, he shot back, "Aren't you?"
Claire let out an exasperated sigh, ready to hang up the call.
Edward's face twisted with discomfort before he forced a polite smile toward Richard. "Mr. Hawkins, let me speak to Claire and convince her to come back."
Edward quickly snatched the phone, stepped to the side, and lowered his voice to a menacing whisper. "Claire, get back here immediately, or don't blame me if those kids get hurt!"
His tone sharpened as he added, "Don't think I don't know about Sunrise Orphanage."
A flicker of hostility flashed in Claire's eyes. "If you lay a hand on them, I'll—"
Edward cut her off impatiently. "Claire, if the Ashford family falls, so will those kids. Are you willing to
