Chapter 446: Crystal Power

This trip through the house was a little different. No sneaking, for one thing. Though the view wasn't much better, in my opinion. Seen one multi-million dollar mansion, seen 'em all.

And, not a shocker, I ended up back in the central office with the big skylight and the cabinet full of crystals. My heart did an "oh noes" when I entered and found Belaisle standing in front of it, hands clasped behind his back, staring through the glass at the collection.

He knew.

We were screwed.

But when he turned to face me, his silken, well-oiled smile on his lips, he simply gestured for the goon to leave us as he crossed to his desk, an ornate and oppressive piece of posturing furniture, perching himself on the edge of it with flair.

Sigh.

"Welcome to my home, Miss Hayle," he said. "How lovely for you to visit. I hope you're enjoying your stay?"

Arrogant ass. "Not so much," I said, my best casual chic mustered at the last moment despite the fact I wanted to jerk the ugly clump of hair from h