184 Something strange is going on with your son.

Victoria was speechless momentarily, but she quickly regained her composure. "Yes, we spoke," she confirmed, her voice carefully neutral. "He has taken a few days off to...recoup. But how did you know he was not at the office?"

"I was there to discuss the contract renewal," Colton replied tersely.

"Okay." She nodded, but she didn't trust him. She thought Colton had other motives to go find Silas. "How is Tina? She hasn't visited us since her return. I find it quite disappointing."

"Are you?" Colton scoffed. "Your son has been a constant disappointment to me, but I don't complain like you do."

Victoria's spine stiffened. The playful banter had evaporated, replaced by a tense standoff. She met his glare head-on, her voice hardening. "Men are men. Easily distracted by pretty faces. Silas can't be blamed for that." Her gaze flicked pointedly towards the windshield. "Lara is incapable of enticing him."

"Mind what you are saying," Colton growled coldly.