Lisa sat comfortably in a rocking chair by the window, covering her legs with a blanket, and handed me the phone. Nikita left us, and I hurried to contact my father. Quickly informing him that I would not be able to come for the New Year, I apologized and promised to get to him with gifts in the coming days. Dad was upset, of course, but he didn't show it.

Returning the phone to Lisa, I sat on the edge of the bed next to her and looked inquiringly. I was eager to find out what happened to this sweet girl and what Igor is so guilty of in front...