The afternoon sun stretched long shadows across the pavement. Isabelle adjusted her bag on her shoulder, about to call a cab when her phone buzzed again.

An unfamiliar number flashed on the screen.

She hesitated for a beat before answering. “Hello?”

A rich, low voice came through the receiver, smooth and teasing.

“Dear sister, how are you doing today?”

For a brief second, Isabelle was too startled to respond. Then realization dawned. “…Mr. Reed?”

She had simply ...