Liam ran into the room which startled CherryPop awake. She looked at me and then at Liam who was gasping near the doorway.

“Daddy?” she asked, her voice crackling with sleep. I tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear and hummed a gentle tune until I had lulled her back to sleep. When I was sure she slept, I stood, took a deep breath and left the room with Liam.

“What the hell is going on?” I asked him once we had moved into the study.

“From what I can gather Des, someone wants CherryPop. I heard them say something about a bounty.”

Charlotte gasped, clapping her hand to her mouth. I pulled her to me and kissed her cheek. I looked hard at Liam.

“It’s Alexander isn’t it?” I asked.

“I heard no names but if I had to venture a guess I’d say yes. The only child of Desmond and Charlotte McGee… She’s valuable. And Alexander is a strong wizard. Who knows what uses he would have for her.” Liam replied, his eyes not quite meeting mine.

I sighed. “Liam… old friend. I have something I need to ask of you.”