Gabriel hesitated, his face shocked for an instant, then his eyes grew sympathetic with a note of indulgence and need. "I see. I'll not bother you any more." "Thank you." I turned and went without further word.

The moment I had driven away, Gabriel called, his voice as gentle as usual. "Did you manage what I asked of you?"

A harsh, deep voice answered on the other end, "I tried calling her, but she didn't pick up. I texted her, but it's already more than a day, and she hasn't responded."

Gabriel's eyes narrowed. "Try to contact her again. Once this is over, I'll have your daughter flown out of...