Chapter: 1706

Cliff's teasing was harmless enough-with family still awake in the house, he was content with playful banter rather than pursuing anything further.

Once he had thoroughly pampered her back to comfort, he asked, “Whose call did you take earlier?" The memory of a man's voice nagged at him.

"Merrick," Laney answered simply.

A frown creased Cliff's features, displeasure evident. “Why are you still in contact with him?"

“We're friends. Keeping in touch is perfectly normal,” she replied.