Chapter 171

• 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."