“Ronald Clayton was scum, a lower lifeform without conscience or scruples. I don’t care that he left me his house. I don’t want it. I don’t care what he left behind in his house. I don’t want anything that man touched. I’d be happiest if all traces of him were wiped from this earth. That was why I wanted you to burn the house. That’s why I… I…”

She seemed to have run out of words.

Jack too was speechless. Alicia’s feelings for her father went beyond anger, beyond rage. She loathed the man. And not simply because of his character faults.

What in God’s name happened in that house? Was it physical? Sexual?

Jack watched her closely, hoping she wasn’t about to cry. He never knew what to do with a crying woman—or man, for that matter. Gia he could take in his arms and hug. But Alicia? Uh-uh. She was flying a Gadsden flag at full mast.

But she didn’t cry. Didn’t even come close. She closed her eyes, took a deep breath, then looked at him.

“Sorry.”

“It’s okay,” Jack said, hiding his relief. “What’s your next step? And please tell me it doesn’t include the word ‘fire.’“

The barest hint of a smile curved her lips. “Okay. No fire.” She sighed. “Maybe I should think about giving in. I mean, it would sure as hell simplify my life if I simply sold the damn place to Thomas and his backers. Being a multimillionaire would solve a lot of problems.”

Jack was surprised by a sudden pang of disappointment. Who killed the PI, the lawyer, and Benny the Torch? And why? What in that house was valuable enough to kill for?

If Alicia gave in, all those questions would remain unanswered.

“And then again,” she said after a pause, her eyes going steely. “Maybe I shouldn’t. I don’t like to be bullied. Especially by Thomas.”

Yes! Jack resisted the impulse to pump his fist. Instead he rose to his feet.

“It’s your decision,” he said. “And either way, there’s not much I can do for you. But I’ll keep thinking on it. Maybe I can come up with someone who can help.”

“Why?” she said. “Don’t get me wrong. I’d welcome any help you care to offer. But I got the impression you’re strictly fee for service. Why are you staying involved?”

Jack shrugged. “Curiosity.”

“Considering what happened to the others who’ve gotten involved, curiosity could be dangerous.”

“I know,” he said. “You’re a dangerous lady to be around.”