An Open Confrontation

Xander's gaze hardened as he watched Stella fawn over the Major from across the room. "We will need answers when we meet him ourselves."

Asher huffed, folding his arms. "That woman is bad news, and anyone close to her can't be any different." He shot Xander a knowing look. "Let me handle the questioning."

Meanwhile, two tables over, Adam's eyes followed Stella's movements, noting the Major's arrival and the warmth in Stella's greeting. His face darkened. Stephanie noticed his shift and glanced in the same direction just in time to see Stella and the Major walking over.

"Adam, about what we discussed in—" Stephanie began, but Adam silenced her with a stern look. "Whatever we talked about in my study stays there."

Stephanie met his gaze, offering a slow nod. "Understood. We will continue the conversation later."