His words dripped with implication as Ryan silently released Valerie’s hand.
"I need to talk to you. Come with me to the study."
Seizing the moment when Ryan wasn't looking, Justin grabbed Valerie's arm and growled through gritted teeth, "Watch your mouth."
She glared at Justin's retreating figure, fingers twitching with the urge to flip him off. Those two were equally insufferable—two peas in a pod.
Uncomfortable being alone with Ryan, Justin jumped in first, "You rarely call me over like this. What's going on?"
"Why so nervous? Can't I invite my own brother without a reason?" Ryan turned, his glacial stare making Justin flinch—though he quickly scoffed internally. Brothers they might be, yet they felt like strangers. How pathetic.
Justin forced a casual tone as he sat. "Of course y
