Jenna Roland assumed Wendy Lombardi would leave after questioning her. But the woman remained rooted behind her.

Wendy had claimed pregnancy nausea made her sensitive to cooking smells. Yet she lingered in the kitchen now.

Jenna's grip tightened around the chef's knife.

The blade struck the cutting board in rhythmic thuds.

"Jenna, does your brother frequent Studio 54 often?" Wendy's voice came from behind.

The knife stilled.

Here it comes.

She resumed dicing bell peppers without turning. "I've only worked there two weeks. Saw him twice - first when he claimed me as his sister, then last night's dinner invite."

Wendy chuckled. "Don't overthink it. I just worry about him. Hot-tempered men need watching."

Jenna's lips twitched.

Pathetic excuse.

Tony Lombardi was famously henpecked at home.

"Brother does have a short fuse. You should keep him in check." Jenna turned with an angelic smile.

"Naturally." Wendy stepped closer. "Does he bring company to the club?"

Jenna set down the knife and faced her directly.

"Never seen him with anyone."

Their gazes locked in silent combat.

Wendy narrowed her eyes, searching for cracks in Jenna's composure.

The younger woman's expression remained guileless.

"Since you call me sister-in-law, we're family." Wendy suddenly beamed. "If he steps out of line, you'll tell me."

"Of course." Jenna nodded sweetly.

Her back was damp with cold sweat.

Thank God Tony had warned her beforehand.

Wendy gave her a lingering look before exiting.

The kitchen door clicked shut. Jenna exhaled sharply.

She picked up the knife again. The bell peppers lay in mangled ruins.