#Chapter 99 – Heart to Heart

“Yes, Iris,” Christian replies, his voice low and dangerous. “There are still ways to protect you. Even here, at the end of the world. I wish you’d just let me.” “Fine,” I say, my voice too light, too casual. Christian narrows his eyes, trying to figure out my game. I lift my drink to him in a little toast and then down the contents, scowling a little at the way it burns my throat. “Iris,” he sighs, shaking his head at me. “What are you doing?” “Outdrinking you,” I say, looking at him innocently. “Which is rude, Christian. As the host, you should at least go drink for drink with me.” He smirks at me, slowly taking his own glass in his hand and raising it up to eye-level. We’re both well aware that I poured him at least double the contents of my own glass. “Really, Iris? This is your plan, get me drunk so I start talking?” “Yup!” I say, grinning cheerfully. He laughs, shaking his head and then – to my surprise – downing his drink. Then he stands and moves to the counter, grabbing