You need to leave, Jonas said. Now. Reed made no move toward his horse. Instead, he looked past Jonas to Lena, his gaze invasive, possessive. You can't run forever, Lena.
Sooner or later, we need to settle accounts. The money you took I didn't take anything that wasn't owed to me. The words burst out before Lena could stop them. Daniel left me with nothing. Nothing.
Those items I sold were mine, gifts from my family, and I had every right That's not how Daniel's family sees it. They consider those heirlooms stolen property. Reed's smile was cold. Of course, we could settle this quietly if you were reasonable. The threat hung in the air, barely veiled.
Jonas moved fully between them. I think I've heard enough. You've got 10 seconds to get on that horse before I help you onto it. And trust me, you won't like my methods. For a long moment, Reed didn't move.
Then he smiled, a slow, dangerous smile that made Lena's skin crawl. Very well. I can see this isn't the time for reasonable discussion. He mounted his horse with deliberate slowness. But this conversation isn't over, Lena.
We will talk soon. He rode away, and Lena felt her knees buckle. Jonas caught her, steadying her as she struggled to breathe. Who was that? Jonas's voice was tight with suppressed anger.
Daniel's business partner. At least, that's what he claimed to be. Lena's voice shook. He was always around during our marriage, always finding excuses to visit, to talk to me alone. Daniel encouraged it, said Reed was a valuable connection.
But I knew I knew there was something wrong about him. Did he hurt you? Not physically, but he He watched me. Made comments about what I wore, how I looked, where I went. After Daniel left, Reed started showing up at my family's houses, offering to help me, suggesting I could stay with him, that he'd take care of me if I was grateful.
The words tasted like ash. When I refused, he got angry, started making accusations, claiming I'd stolen from Daniel, that I owed the family money. It was all lies, but he had lawyers, resources. I had nothing. So you ran?
Yes. I liquidated what little I had left and came west. I thought I thought I was far enough away that he couldn't find me. Jonas's jaw clenched. He followed you here, all this way.
It's not about me. It's about control. Reed Mercer doesn't like it when people defy him. Lena wrapped her arms around herself. I should leave before he brings real trouble to your door.