Once inside the office, Xena appeared slightly apologetic.

"Sorry for dragging you into this and getting you threatened. But don't worry—Ethan is definitely in trouble. Regardless of his motives, he won't be getting out for at least ten years."

Felix dropped into a chair with a casual smile. "Why the formality between us?"

Xena rolled her eyes at him but couldn't deny the lingering fear in her heart. If she hadn't personally made that call to Felix, Ethan might have walked away scot-free, and a month later, when the criminal died, the blame would have fallen squarely on her shoulders.

As someone newly appointed, the last thing she needed was a disaster of this magnitude.

"Well, since I saved the day, how do you plan to thank me?" Felix asked.

Xena thought for a moment before replying seriously, "I know you've been working hard to clear your name and even went to see my grandfather. But you have to understand, he was directly involved in that incident. With his age and experience,