‘Richard always is. He is a … a survivor, yes?’ ‘He’s a snake,’ growled Jake. ‘I don’t understand! It’s a good thing that Ranjit’s OK, right?’ exclaimed Isabella. ‘Cassie?’ ‘It’s too complicated to explain.’ Cassie shook her head. ‘Listen, Richard’s in trouble. Serious, serious trouble. You’ve got to help me.’ Isabella blinked. ‘Since when have you been so worried about Richard? I thought you—’ ‘I know, I know, never mind all that. I don’t want him to get hurt. Please help?’ ‘Of course we—’ ‘I mean, the only way you can.’ Fear made her voice hard. ‘Isabella, I think I’m going to have to fight Ranjit. I need to be strong enough.’ Isabella took a sharp breath, and a step closer to Jake. ‘No friggin’ way,’ he snapped, seizing Isabella’s hand and pulling her back towards him. ‘You’d rather see Richard die?’ barked Cassie. ‘Do not make me answer that one.’ ‘Ranjit may be under a curse,’ she said, her teeth clenched, her voice low, dangerous.
