Kirsten instinctively drew back, trying to avoid the man's wandering hand.
Just as his fingers were about to brush her shoulder, a cold, commanding voice cut through the air. "Mr. Mercer."
Colin Mercer froze mid-motion. The chill in Edmond's tone was enough to make his pulse stutter. He looked up, startled.
Edmond hadn't even turned his head. His gaze remained fixed on the cards in front of him.
"My assistant may not understand the etiquette at the table," he said evenly, "but surely you do."
The words were soft, yet their weight hit like lead. Everyone at the table understood immediately.
Colin's hand stiffened, suspended awkwardly in mid-air. His smile faltered, dying on his face.
He withdrew his hand at once, mumbling nervously, "Y-yes, of course, Mr. Fletcher. That was out of l
