Once more. I had to use my spell on Chris. I should have known she wouldn't let me leave the hotel without knowing what I was up to. I believed I had enough chance to convince her, but she wasn't about to be swayed until I told her what I wanted to do and who I wanted to meet. Putting her to sleep was the only way out.

Riven was waiting in front of his bar for me when I arrived. The moment I stepped out of the taxi, his eyes sparkled. He looked just like a kid.

"Isabella," he called out as he ...