Chapter 71

“Then you’re the only one who doesn’t. The judge we talked with, before we came here this morning, issued a restraining order for Ryan against Mr. Hampton—without any hesitation.” Shaun smirked. “You might want to consider getting one as well. Hampton has a rather vicious temper. When he finds out you gave Ryan’s drawings back to him…Well, need I say more?”

“Hardly an inducement to have me return them. On the other hand, I’m beginning to believe it might be in my best interests to do so. I’ll admit, I like his money, but as a person, he was a bit of a bully. I’ll be right back.”

“That’s putting it mildly,” Ryan muttered. “Do you think he’s calling Merrick to let him know we’re here, and why?”

“I doubt it. He’s smart enough to understand Merrick’s in trouble at this point. He’ll cut his losses rather than be dragged into the mess.”

Mr. Foster returned several minutes later with a thick portfolio, and, much to Ryan’s shock, a proposition.