"Now that her shining white knight's back in town," I added, "you're not really planning on keeping him in the shadows forever, are you?"
Smack.
The slap came quickly and deliberately. Gerard didn't hesitate.
"Troy," he snapped, "when did you get so bitter? So damn petty?"
"Margaux is an extraordinary woman. She has two people she trusts. And what, huh? That makes you jealous? Insecure? Small-minded? Clearly, I didn't raise you right."
I didn't flinch. I didn't touch my cheek.
I just stared back at him, the sting crawling across my skin, but not my pride.
"I'm twenty-eight, Gerard," I said. "If you think you messed up raising me, it's a little late to fix it now."
His jaw tightened, and he scoffed like I'd spit on the family crest.
"So, a few days playing house as Mr. Haywood, and suddenly you've grown a spine? Margaux must've spoiled you rotten."
Then his expression turned meaner, colder. I knew that look too well.
"Well then," he said, "since you're done being reasonable, maybe it's time to let your aunt step in."
I froze mid-breath.
The words spilled out before I could stop them. "What are you planning to do?"