“It could be someone who hates Tom,” I admitted. “There are plenty of people who fall into that category.”

Including Ronan. But I wasn’t about to say that when I was curled on his lap. My judgment might not have been flawless, but I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that Ronan had nothing to do with this, except for casting himself in the role of my protector.

“Tell them about the phone call,” Kade prompted.

I tried to shift from Ronan’s knee while I recounted the awful call. Sometimes, distance served me better during difficult conversations than sympathy or physical comfort. But he refused to let go.

“Stay,” he urged.

“I need to be able to think,” I replied, sliding off and settling beside him on the couch. “Like Kade said, Tom called earlier.”

“I hope he fucking apologized,” Ronan grated out.

I glanced away. “At first, he was upset you’d interfered with the kidnapping. He’s worried they’ll retaliate.”

“Fuck that.”

I didn’t meet his eyes. I was too embarrassed by how little regard my brother seemed to have for my well-being. “He confirmed that he owes people money. He said he’d organized for Adrian Petrov to deal with all of his outstanding debt in exchange for a majority share in the company and marrying me.”

“No way in hell,” Ronan growled.

“That’s what I said.”

“Believe it or not, she’s making it sound better than it was,” Kade offered, and I shot him a look. He held up his phone. “I have the whole thing recorded.”

I didn’t want him to play it, but I understood the necessity, so I bit my tongue.

“Do you want to leave the room while we listen?” Kade asked, his expression gentle.

“No.” I straightened my shoulders. “I can handle it.”

Ronan stroked the back of my hand. “You’re not alone.”

He had no idea how good that sounded. Despite technically being on the same team as Tom for years, I’d never really felt like it was us against the world. He’d always had his own agenda. But Ronan made me feel like I had support if I needed it. His eyes burned with an icy anger I’d never seen, and I knew it wasn’t directed at me. Somehow, his rage was soothing.

“Thanks.” I steeled myself and nodded to Kade. “Do it.”

Kade pressed the button, and I heard my voice ask, “Who is this?” I gritted my teeth as we relived the conversation I’d had earlier. The betrayal felt like a festering wound that Kade had just exposed for everyone to see. When the recording ended, the room was silent.

Finally, Zeke cleared his throat. “Well, I think it’s safe to say your brother is a monumental dick.” He pursed his lips. “I’m sorry for suspecting you might be involved. It turns out, he’s just a bastard who doesn’t mind throwing his sister under the bus to save himself.” To my surprise, he winked. “If you need someone to toss him beneath an actual bus, I’m your guy. Just say the words.”