Free Stolen Skye (Book One, The Skye Trilogy) by Nina Loard

up. Finn walked silently beside me for a few blocks.
    “Just tell me you’re okay.” He brought me to a stop on the sidewalk, causing the folks behind us to come to an abrupt halt and veer around.
    “It was a shock, but I’m okay. I don’t really understand how he could have done that to you, but it sounded like he’s willing to help.”
    “We haven’t scared you off? I don’t want you to leave… you know, before you try to remember.” His light eyes showed some concern despite the smile he was wearing.
    “Finn, I would like nothing more than to remember everything. I’m staying until it feels like I’ve become a hindrance.” I reminded myself of Ari’s words and my mood turned sour again. Finn started us walking after spotting Bounce a block ahead, looking annoyed.
    “You were a fast learner, Evy, and talented. You were never a hindrance. He owes you more than what he showed in there. Anyway, he won’t be interfering.”
    Finn and I picked up the pace and reached Bounce. After about four blocks, we were at Red Goat Pub. The four people within looked over to us in welcoming as we decided on a place to sit. A curving, mahogany bar looked like it had propped patrons up for centuries. After ordering, Bounce and Finn looked casually around the restaurant trying not to let their gaze fall on me for too long. If I’d been in a better mood I may have joked with them about it, but the silence was peaceful. They were still concerned about me. It would be a good idea to laugh off the last couple of days, but I didn’t have the energy for anything other than small talk. In looking at them and considering my circumstances, I couldn’t see how just small talk would be possible.
    “So, are you enjoying your vacation so far ?” Bounce asked with a smile. It was perfect. We laughed together and talked more about Finn’s appearance in my house and I shared my dismissal from the hotel, and they both commented that Bunderson sounded like an ass. It was easy to share with them and it began to feel natural, like we were the old friends they claimed we were.
    It had turned dark outside and the after-work crowd had begun floating in. Two of the men that had been at the bar when we arrived were still drinking, and paying us more and more attention. After a particularly suggestive stare from the larger of the two, I tried to keep from looking at them, but they were in my line of sight whenever I spoke to Bounce. As I was telling her about threatening Finn with a poker, the bigger one came over to the table.
    “Good evening friends, might I ask the name of this fair lady?” He came close to me and put his large, hot hands on my shoulders. I could smell the whiskey on his breath. I looked up at him and smiled nervously, trying to decide on the proper response. Awkward come-ons from shabby men were not my specialty.
    “The lady was just in the middle of telling a story. Please let her be.” Finn smiled to our interrupter, sitting up in his chair. His Irish accent was more pronounced, whether from the pints or the threat in his voice.
    “Oh, well now, do forgive me. Tell me, do I detect a hint of Irish in you, boy?”
    “Irish, to be sure, amongst other things. Very little patience, however.” The warmth of Finn’s smile didn’t reach his eyes.
    “Ah, a mongrel in our midst.” He spoke louder, calling attention to himself as he glanced around the bar. He assessed Bounce more closely. “How lucky for this fine woman to have such… colorful company.” I heard the screeching of wood on wood and felt a rush of air blow past my back. The next thing I knew, the shabby man was flat on the ground, with Finn crouched between him and his other friend, who hadn’t moved from the bar. Every muscle in Finn’s taut body looked flexed and ready. I’d never even saw him throw a punch. He looked around, waiting for a sign of opposition. Once it was clear there was none, he stood up straight and spoke quietly to our waiter. Two