Page 198 of Thorns of Malice

"No?" She studies me.

I admit, "Craig Pohler called me about an hour ago."

"And?"

Goose bumps break out on my skin. I blurt out, "They found a way to eliminate the side effects of NeuroZap without compromising the drug's effectiveness."

Ivy gapes.

I take a deep breath and add, "He assures me it's ready to roll out to the masses."

"Wow! Dax, that's wonderful news!"

I nod.

Kristen enters the kitchen. "Sorry to interrupt, but it's someone's nap time."

"No nap!" Lilly spouts.

"Sorry, sweetie. Nap time is good for you." I tug her closer and hug her. I hand her to Ivy.

She hugs her as well, then passes her off to Kristen.

"No nap!" Lilly repeats, tears rolling down her cheeks.

"Aww, don't cry, Lilly," Kristen says.

"No nap!" Lilly screams, then sobs.

My heart hurts. I rise, stroke her back, and say, "Go lie down with Kristen. Daddy needs to talk to Mommy for a minute, then I'll come up and nap with you."

"You're spoiling her," Ivy mutters.

Lilly stills, except for the tears rolling down her chin.

"Be a good girl for Kristen. I'll be there soon."

"Now, Daddy," Lilly demands.

"Soon," I say, kissing her head.

"Now!" she screams, crying as Kristen carries her out of the room.

"You're creating a monster," Ivy adds.

"So you keep telling me. Anyway, what do you think?" I ask, sitting next to her again.

She peers at me. "About what?"

My stomach flips. "Do you want to take NeuroZap now that it's safe?"

Her eyes widen.

"Did I say something wrong?"

She reaches for my hand. "Dax, why would I want to take it?"

I stay quiet.

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