She cleared her throat and said, “Xander, I think we could pull back a bit.” “Could we?” he mumbled sarcastically. Her eyes flicked up to him. It was the same tone he used with Ava. She stared him down and slowly raised a brow at him. “Did you need clarification?” She heard the orchestra hush. Something sparkled in his eyes, and his lips twitched. “No, ma’am.”