Page 32

“The one that ends with legal billing us by the hour.”

I smile. She groans.

“Mitchell.”

Layla takes another step in my direction.

An idea settles into place.

Simple.

Effective.

Potentially enjoyable.

“Whatever you're thinking, stop,” Myrna says, “I just don't want to see you waste your time, sir.”

Too late.

Layla Hawthorne wants access to me.

Fine.

I'll give her some.

I didn't build an empire by hiding from threats. I get close enough to understand them. Find the weakness. Control the variables.

Layla wants an interview.

I want to know what she knows about Granddad.

Seems like we can help each other.

Of course, she doesn't need to know that.

And if getting close to this particular threat requires a little charm, a few drinks, maybe dinner...

My gaze finds those hazel eyes again.

Hell, I've endured worse business strategies.

I straighten my cuffs.

I won't let some network turn the best man I've ever known into clickbait because attaching the Knight name to a headline guarantees an audience.

Whatever Layla Hawthorne is looking for, I'll find out. And if she's been digging into my family? I'll shut it down.

Easy peasy.

“You're smiling,” Myrna says.

“Am I?”

“I don't like it.”

“That's unfortunate.”

“Mr. Knight.”