Chapter 70

Ramon POV

“Everything’s fine,” I said smoothly, straightening from the desk.

“He was just updating me on some business matters. Nothing to worry about.”

Lake’s expression suggested he didn’t quite believe me, but he didn’t press. Instead, he turned to my brothers. “Your mates are looking for you. Something about lunch plans?”

My brothers took the hint, filing out one by one. Troy paused to squeeze my shoulder as he passed, a silent show of support. Rhodes nodded at Lake as he left, his expression warm. Rafael winked—because of course he did—and Romeo gave Lake a small smile.

Then they were gone, and Lake and I were alone in the study.

“What’s really going on?” Lake asked once the door closed behind Romeo. “Marcus looked serious. And your brothers all had that expression that means something big is being discussed.”

“Just family business,” I said, which wasn’t entirely a lie. “Nothing for you to stress about right now.”

Lake cros