Chapter 64

Alessio

I left her room a few hours ago, and haven’t seen her since. Isabelle had informed me that she had taken lunch up to Beauty’s room and that she had eaten it all, as evidenced by the empty tray that had been deposited outside the door. Which is progress. At least, she is eating and happily ensconced in her studio. Which is more than I can say for myself. I glare at the fast-sinking sun on the horizon. Damn it, why is it that my thoughts are still on her?

A knock on the door interrupts my thoughts, and I confess, it is with relief that I turn to find Christian walking in. I nod to my brother, then turn to the woman at his heels.

"Doc," I jerk my chin, "he’s briefed you on what I need?"

She draws herself up to her full height, "I have been told what you’d like me to do, but I must record my complete disagreement with what you have proposed."

"I wasn’t asking for your opinion."

"I am giving it to you anyway," she firms her lips. "As a health care provider, as a professional, and as