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"Let me guess," Keiran said unsmilingly. "You owe a blood debt as well."

The Prince of Killers inclined his head. "It should be obvious to you by now, de Laigny. His sister's happiness matters to us. And so if she choosesnotto take you back..."

The sharpness of the other man's smile was a deadly promise.

"Then it will be so. You will not be able to take her back."



















Now and Forever

TWO MONTHS LATER

The gardens of the Marchetti estate bloomed in defiance of the approaching autumn. Stone gargoyles kept watch from the corners of the enormous property, their weathered faces holding centuries of secrets.

Cadence stood at the edge of the fountain, trailing her fingers through the cool water. She had grown used to this place over the past months, finding comfort in its ancient stones and formal beauty. The gargoyles no longer seemed threatening, merely watchful. Protective, even.

"He's here again."

Cadence didn't turn at the sound of Potenziana Marchetti's voice.La Stregamoved with surprising grace for a woman of her age, the strand of pearls at her throat catching the late morning light as she came to stand beside Cadence.

"This makes it, what? The twentieth time?"

"Twenty-third," Cadence said reluctantly, "over eight weeks." And it gave her no pleasure to know this.

"You've been counting,"La Stregaobserved shrewdly. "Not exactly something one would do if she didn't really care, no?"

Cadence made a face. "I know what you're trying to do,signora."

"Then you should be able to guess what I'm about to tell you,sì?"

Cadence suddenly found it difficult to breathe. She should've known this time would come. But even so."Signora—-"

The older woman's face softened. "I understand you are scared."

"Then—-"

"But—-"La Strega'stone was final. "You cannot delay the inevitable,bambina.Your husband is clearly at the end of his tether. He may wage war if he doesn't see for himself that you are well."