His face twisted, the cracks in his carefully constructed mask showing. “You don’t know what you’re saying,” he hissed. “He’ll ruin you, Sloane. Just like I did.”

I stepped closer, leaning down until I was face-to-face with him. “The difference is, Everett, I get to choose this time. And I choose…Logan.”

“Said like a true nobody.”

My grin widened. “I’m pretty sure,Uncle, that you’re the one who’s anobodynow. And when people hear your name, they won’t think of wealth or power. They’ll think of handcuffs, orange jumpsuits, and asadlittle man who got exactly what he deserved.”

Everett’s face turned red. “You think you’ve won? You think this is over?”

“For me, it is,” I said, straightening up and smoothing my blazer. “But for you? This is just the beginning. Enjoy your cage, Everett. It suits you.”

I turned on my heel and walked out, the sound of my heels echoing in the quiet hallway like a victory march. The necklace lay cool against my collarbone, and I realized…it felt like armor. A reminder that I wasn’t alone anymore—and that someone out there would do whatever it took to make me happy.

Even if his methods were a little…crazy.

After this, Everett Wells was going to be nothing more than a bad memory.

* * *

LOGAN

The news had a different story the next week. A report that Everett Wells had been strangled by an inmate and been killed.

Sloane hadn’t even cried at the news. Instead…she’d simply smiled.

I didn’t know how. But I knew he’d done it.

Batman had struck again.

An hour later my phone buzzed.

Lincoln: I’ve taken the liberty of getting my money back from his accounts. So no need to pay me back, Rookie.

I grinned…extremely relieved about that.

Me: You surprise me, Golden Boy. I thought you enjoyed my burger commercial. You’re going to miss out if I don’t need to do them anymore.

Lincoln: …

Shaking my head, I set my phone down and went to join Sloane…in the shower.

CHAPTER45

LOGAN

Ari: I’d like to file a complaint.

Lincoln: …

Ari: This is serious, Golden Boy. And it’s against you.

Walker: The drama queen is in this morning, boys.

Ari Lancaster removed Walker Davis from the chat.

Igrinned when a second later:

Lincoln Daniels added Walker Davis to the chat.