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“You, too.”

“Can’t wait for the party tonight. It’s gonna be lit, and I get another chance with Naomi.”

“Sure.” Hopefully, I can bet on my sister not to cock-block me anymore and drag Lil to the party. I’d love to see her eyes light up when I taste her.

We stride out of the stadium, the whole team ready to party.

“Sebastian Barron.” A man in a black trench coat, looking like some hard-boiled detective straight out of a noir film, approaches us. He’s got this intensity about him, all sharp angles and a cold expression.

Familiar. I know this guy from somewhere.

“Can I help you?” I ask sharply.

The man grins, icy blue eyes glinting. “We need to talk.”

“Do I know you?”

“Calm down, Barron. I come in peace.” He extends a hand. “Levi, Lil’s brother.”

My defenses drop slightly at the mention of her. “What brings you here, Levi?”

“Just wanted to congratulate you on your win.” His eyes never leave mine, as if calculating and assessing me.

“Thanks.” I force a smile, trying to be friendly for Lil’s sake. “Lil already told me so much about her brothers. It’s nice to meet one of you finally.”

She didn’t. At least not yet, but she will.

“Likewise. So, will you shake my hand or not?” His gaze drops to his outstretched hand.

Fuck it, I’ll play nice. For now. I shake his hand, and he squeezes back. Hard. A silent pissing contest.

“Let’s take a walk.” His tone leaves no room for argument.

I glance at Brandon and the others. “Go on ahead. I’ll catch up.”

Brandon lingers at the entrance, his eyes questioning, and I give him a subtle nod. I can handle this.

We stroll a short distance from the stadium.

“So, what’s this about?” I ask.

Levi’s gaze is razor-sharp. “I think you know.”

“Enlighten me.”

He stops walking, turning to face me fully. “Lil.”

“What about her?”

“I know you’ve become close with my sister.”

I meet his stare head-on. “And?”

“I don’t know what your family wants from an Edmunds. But if any harm comes to Lil…”

“Whatever issues our families have, they have nothing to do with her and me.”

“Doesn’t it, though? You haven’t told her the truth yet.” He pauses, tilting his head. “Why is that, I wonder?”

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