"It's a complicated set of circumstances," Malcolm admitted, "to say the least." He grinned, trying to ease tensions a bit as he nodded to Fred and took her seat.
Right. Business. "I suppose," his eyes locking into Fred's and avoiding those of her obviously-suspicious brothers', "that it would be futile to try and have this conversation privately?" Malcolm turned his head from Fred to Trent. "Not that I'm against any eavesdropping, but this is already an uncomfortable situation as it is," he turned to Ford, "and seeing the two of you there poised to throttle me--or whatever current of distrust it is you have running through your heads--doesn't make it any easier."