Why did you kill Shelby?

Hardin's POV

"Hardin, what took you so long to pick up the phone?" I hesitated for a moment, knowing it was Martins on the line. I wasn't in the mood for a conversation, especially not now. Reluctantly, I answered, my frown evident even before I said a word.

"Hello?" I said, my voice tinged with irritation.

"We have been trying to reach you, but your assistant kept saying you are busy" Martins' voice came through the line, annoyingly loud, completely out of sync with my current mood. Each word he spoke felt like a jab, irritating me more with every syllable. I struggled to maintain my composure, trying to listen to what he had to say.

"You've reached me now Martins, now what do you want?" I asked going straight to the point.

"We heard about what happened Hardin just in case you don't know" His words seemed to echo in my mind, each one grating on my nerves. I could feel my anger rising, and frustration bubbling beneath the surface.

"So?" I replied, Despite my annoyance, I forced myself