“What he uncovered is that you’re hard-working, you save your money, and you care about your family, a little too much.”

Her face softened.

“And you only splurge on clothes and shoes.”

“They’re an investment.” She squeezed his hand. “What you see is what you get with me.”

Easton had spent so long uncovering lies and secrets. Ones paid for with blood. Ones that had cost lives. Harlow was like a shining sun in the darkness.

“I hate when you get that look in your eyes.”

Her words made him blink. “What?”

“This darkness takes over, and for a second, you aren’t here anymore.”

He blew out a breath. “Unlike you, I have my secrets.” Dirty, dark ones that still stained his soul.

She didn’t look away, held his gaze. “I’m here, if you want to share them.”

His chest tightened. She didn’t push. She didn’t fire off questions. “Let’s go talk with your dad.”

She nodded. They reached the top of the stairs and Harlow looked around. “This warehouse is gorgeous.”

Across the space, Vander and Rome were standing talking in front of an office. Harlow and Easton hurried over to join them.

“Harlow.” Rome’s deep voice was a rumble. “You okay?”

“I’m fine, Rome. Don’t even think about beating yourself up. I’m okay.”

The big man grunted.

Easton knew Rome wasn’t getting over her abduction anytime soon.

Then Harlow made a choked sound. She was looking into the office behind the men.

Charles Carlson sat slumped in a chair.

“Dad?”

Carlson’s head snapped up. “Harlow.” He shot to his feet.

She raced to her father.

Easton followed. He was staying close. Her father might love her, but he’d put her at risk.

“Princess.” Carlson hugged her tightly.

“I’ve been so worried about you,” she said.

Easton caught Vander’s gaze and scowled.

“Found him hiding in an office space he’d rented through a secondary company. He was sleeping on the couch.”

Easton lifted his chin.

“Dad, Rhoda Pierce had people kidnap me.”

“No.” Carlson’s hands flexed on his daughter’s arms. “I’m so sorry.”

“She said you gambled. Then lost more money, then you stole a dagger of hers.”

His chin dropped to his chest. “I can explain—”

“Explain?” Harlow’s voice rose. “I’m in danger, Dad. If mom or Scarlett come back, they’ll be in danger, too. I’ve had to have dinner with a criminal, been attacked, and been taken by a really scary lady. How could you explain?”

Carlson slumped. “I’m sorry, Princess.”

Easton didn’t think it was good enough. The guy needed to man up. Easton reached out and gripped the back of Harlow’s neck. She glanced at him and he hated seeing the pain on her face.

“You’re Easton Norcross,” Carlson breathed.

He glanced up to see her father staring at him.