“Last night,” he said, “you three went for a drive, I believe. From now on you’ll stay in the house until further orders. Is that clear?”
Russell sat up with a jerk.
“Damn your impudence!” he exploded. “Who the hell do you think you are, anyway?”
Landis met his eyes and held them, then jerked his head toward the door.
“Clear out!” he snapped. “I want to talk to Miss Harrison alone.”
“Oh, you do, do you?” Russell sneered. “What if I don’t choose to clear out, as you put it?”
“You’ll do as you’re told and do it quick,” retorted Landis evenly, “or I’ll put you under restraint. Understand?”
Russell stared up at him, his eyes dangerous.
Landis took a step forward.
“Get out!” he snapped, the sum of his accumulated irritation crackling in his voice.