Stolen Skye (Book One, The Skye Trilogy)

by Nina Loard

  “I’m against this, but I speak for all of us when I say it’s good to see you.” He bowed his head, never breaking eye contact. Though the gesture was traditionally viewed as welcoming, his words were not.

  Taken aback, I said, “I’m not sure what to say to that. You’re Ari, I presume.” I tried to match his arrogant tone.

  “There’s nothing to say. You’re here as our guest because the fact that you live is something I can no longer conceal. We will do what we can to help. Fintan has briefed me on your requests. You have my word that we would never harm anyone close to you.” He glanced at the others in the room indicating they were to show signs of agreement. They all nodded on cue. I looked around the room at them. Finn was staring at me… waiting.

  I replayed what had just been said in my head. Something about conceal.

  “You knew I was alive?” I couldn’t feel the anger yet, but I knew it was forming.

  “Yes, we thought you were gone and then I learned the truth. I also discovered you had lost your memory. It was in everyone’s best interest to allow you to be on your own after that.” He stood alone in the center of the room, entirely confident in the merit of everything he said.

  “You let everyone believe I was dead? You left me?” I was definitely feeling the wrath.

  “It seemed the best solution.” He looked away from me, speaking to the others. He was not apologizing or even explaining. He was proclaiming he was justified in his actions. “However, you’re here, and Fintan has shared some of our story. We’ll reacquaint you with your past in exchange for your word that you’ll leave once you have all the information you require, and that this knowledge stays secret. It appears we owe you this much.”

  “You don’t think it’s a good idea that I know?” It was more of a statement than a question.

  “Finn is convinced, and has convinced you it seems, that you’re safe. He’s reckless. I hesitate to bring you back into a lifestyle that was so foreign to you originally. You lacked even basic street smarts when we first met you, and your education took away valuable time and focus. With your… disability, we are back to where we were then.” He glared at me intently as if trying to will his words to penetrate.

  I looked down, hoping to hide the wound he inflicted. They didn’t want me. I was a hindrance. The pricking behind my lids started, but I held the tears at bay. I glanced over at Finn to see if he could feel me weakening.

  As if answering me, he crossed the room and stood defensively in front of me, glowering up at Ari as if to challenge him to go any further. Ari’s jaw clenched as he returned Finn’s stare, narrowing his eyes. After a moment, he looked past Finn to me again and I tried to match Finn’s confidence. I couldn’t. There was no hiding how hurt I was. He obviously didn’t want me back, but his lie had been exposed. I couldn’t understand why he would do such a thing. He knew I was alive and he left me… let his friends suffer. To me, he was diabolical.

  Finn declared, “Ari, this is over. She’s here now. There’s no forgiving what you’ve done.”

  “I’m not asking for forgiveness. I did what I felt to be right. Since she’s with us now, I will lend whatever service I can. Finn, my staff and possessions are at your disposal should she need anything. Beyond that, I doubt there’s much more I can do. Despite all of this, I’m glad to see you, Evelyn. I’m sure that’s hard for you to understand, but I wish you no harm. Now, I’ll take my leave. I’m going out of town this afternoon.”

  He stepped forward quickly and reached past Finn, taking my hand. He brought it to his mouth, causing me to move closer to him as he lowered his head, barely grazing my skin with his cool lips. His powerful stare bore deep into me for just a moment. His eyes were a dark lagoon green, so unusual. I became transfixed and peered closer. Every hair stood on end as chills stabbed my body. Those unfathomable eyes. Standing so close to him; staring into them. His mysterious, shining eyes I remembered. He released me and after placing something on the table, quietly left the room.

  “Excuse me,” I uttered as I ran into the bedroom and closed the door. I needed a moment alone to steady myself. The circumstances were not clear to me, but Ari’s eyes triggered a memory. Once, I had looked deep into them feeling extreme fear and desperation. Being that close to him had terrified me. I searched my memory, hoping something would come forward offering me a clue as to why. There was nothing else. After a moment, I sat on the bed and attempted to calm myself and analyze the situation. Though Ari was about six inches taller than me and much broader, he didn’t present as a particularly dangerous person. He was more commanding than deadly.

  Ari was obviously strong, but defined and fluid like a swimmer compared to Finn’s more developed physique. His prominent, noble features reminded me of seas of portraits I had been forced by my mother to study long ago. Despite his classic face, his tousled dark hair and sparkling eyes, along with his lopsided grin, gave him a roguish appearance. There was no physical reason for me to respond violently to him. His words had been upsetting, certainly, but he hadn’t threatened me. No, the fear I felt in that moment was a memory. Aside from all the drama, a part of me was ecstatic. I remembered something. It wasn’t the best memory, but if one thing could come back, maybe more would follow.

  A knock at the door ended my reverie. “Are you okay?” Bounce’s soft and very American voice came from the other side.

  “Yes, I just needed a minute.” I opened the door and showed her I was keeping it together. I was sure everyone in the room saw how much Ari had affected me.

  “Don’t let him get to you. I can’t believe what he did or the way he’s acting, but he’s not evil. I keep telling myself he must have his reasons. Anyway, you’re here. I don’t want his monologue to ruin it.” She came closer and nudged me, trying to coax a smile. It was easy to smile with her. I loosened up as we began walking back to the others.

  “Is he always that intense?” I asked, wondering if I had just chosen a bad day to come back to life.

  “Yes, but lately he’s been very distant. It’s probably best he get away. So, with him gone, you’ll have our undivided attention.” We reached the sitting room and only Finn remained.

  “We thought you might be hungry. How about a walk to the pub? Raven and Brinks will catch up with you another day,” Finn said. I was hungry, starving actually. Having a quiet meal with just the two of them was a good idea. I had been on display enough for the afternoon. I went to change into something more comfortable and collect my purse. I noticed another card like Finn’s had been placed beside it. Ari Cameron was written in the same crimson red with a number on the opposite side. I placed it in my wallet, though I was sure I wouldn’t be calling.

  The London afternoon was cold as we exited the hotel and walked up Albemarle Street. The skies were heavy, threatening rain at any moment. I was very glad I had changed into jeans and walking shoes. It felt good to be out, surrounded by people. The afternoon had been unsettling and city life made everything feel much more normal.

  Bounce led the way and I could see why the name summed her up so well. Her gait resembled a non-rhythmic hopping as she weaved through foot traffic. It was the walk of someone with a very positive outlook on life. She did eventually have to slow to let us catch 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 gentlemen came and helped the man up, escorting him out of the bar. The friend went back to his ale.

  Finn sat down and returned to his drink. Bounce continued to pick at her chips as if nothing happened. Nobody else around us seemed disturbed either.

  “Um, wow. Are you okay?” I leaned over Finn’s hand to make sure it wasn’t hurt.

  “Are you kidding me, Evy? That man is a bloated cream puff.” Finn laughed off my concern, but allowed me to hold onto his hand as long as it held interest for me.

  “How did you even hit him? I mean, you moved so fast.” He just shook his head and took another sip of his beer, winking at me over the brim. “Well, thanks I guess.” Bounce was looking at me like she was enjoying a private joke. “What?” I asked curiously.

  She smiled wider and responded, “Evelyn, I know you don’t remember, but, back then, you would have been surprised that Finn let the man live.” Bounce laughed and hit Finn on the back. Finn shook his head to let me know she was only kidding. I wondered.

  Finn took care of the bill despite my protest, and we walked slowly back in the direction of the hotel. Bounce turned to me unexpectedly, announcing she had reached her stop. “Listen, take my card. Call me tomorrow and we’ll get some breakfast, whenever you wake up. Finn, I’ll see you later. Thanks for the chivalry.” She hugged us both goodnight and bounded down the stairs of the underground. I looked down at her card. It was the same as the others, with the name Brenda Baker.

  “Well, that was abrupt.” I looked at Finn and smiled.

  “Yes, she’s swift. Watch out for her.” He must have been joking, as she was the last of them I could ever picture as dangerous. He smiled, letting me know he wasn’t being completely serious. “She’s gifted though, smart and much stronger than she looks. She’s very close to Ari. It doesn’t show, but she’s having a hard time with what he did. We all are.” We kept walking, not really feeling the need to keep up conversation. At the corner, a large figure stepped out in front of us.

  “Stop right there, you Irish bastard.” Slowly, I made out the figure of the man from the bar that Finn had hit earlier. Finn came to a halt, instinctively pulling me behind him.

  Finn smiled, trying to disarm him with his natural charm, still holding onto my wrist to keep me close. “Ah, look, let’s call it a night. We’ve both had a few.”

  The large man yelled to another man that was coming up behind us. “Jimmy, this is the guy I was telling you about. Jumped me when I wasn’t looking.” They smiled to each other with confidence as they closed the distance between them.

  “Evelyn, go back to the hotel. I’ll handle this.” Finn gently pushed me, but I couldn’t move.

  “There are two of them. I’m not leaving you alone,” I whispered, grasping him even tighter.

  Finn turned to me, looking very serious. “Go now, I’ll be less effective if I have to defend us both.” Finn pushed me again. Still unsure, I stepped away, searching for anyone in uniform that could help us. Finn tried to talk the men down, but they began circling him. The man from the bar rushed him, slamming Finn into the side of a parked van. Finn twisted out of the hold.

  Jimmy swung but missed connecting with Finn by inches, thanks to Finn’s quick reflexes. Finn landed a blow to his face, knocking him back several paces. The first man managed to grab Finn by the arms, holding him from behind as he struggled. Jimmy shook off the hit and approached them, wielding his fist in a menacing way. After some taunting of Finn, Jimmy hit him hard in the stomach. I watched Finn double over as much as the other man’s hold on him would allow.

  Without thinking first, I ran back toward them. With no other good ideas, I reached inside my purse for my only line of defense. I blew my rape whistle keychain repeatedly with all my might. Finn’s attackers lost their focus and searched for the source of the sound, probably thinking I was a cop. Finn took advantage of the distraction and head-butted the man holding him so hard that he dropped his grip. With three more punches, both of his attackers were laying on the sidewalk, unconscious.

  “Finn, are you alright?” I ran to him, panting from exertion and fear. He took my hand and started us briskly walking toward the hotel. He didn’t show any signs of damage except some redness at the neck and a slight favoring of his midsection.

  “I’ll mend. You should have listened to me. However, I’m man enough to appreciate a woman willing to step into a street fight.” A look of admiration lit up his face. Shortly, we arrived at the hotel.

  “Are you sure you’re going to be okay, that looked like an unbelievably hard hit.”

  “Of course. Just some bruising is all.” Without thinking, I pulled his shirt up to have a look. There was no sign of any damage yet, but he stood perfectly still, letting me examine him fully.

  Satisfied, I pulled his shirt back down, smoothing it lightly over his stomach. “Well, it’s still early. Do you want to come up for a minute?” I didn’t really want to be alone with my thoughts so soon and I was still trying to shake off the
fight.

  “I do… but, perhaps it’s best if I don’t.” He stepped closer to me to say goodnight, taking one of my hands in his own.

  “Oh sure, you’re probably tired.” I nodded several times, to make the point that I understood. I hoped the tone of my voice didn’t give away any disappointment. His company was calming to me, in a city I barely remembered, surrounded by people I didn’t. It was like he was my only friend in the world.

  “You’re shaking.” He stooped to look at me more closely. “Come with me.” Now that he mentioned it, I couldn’t seem to hold my body still. Finn moved me rapidly through the hotel and collected my key from my purse to open the door. He sat me down on the chair and fetched a blanket to put over my shoulders. I chattered out a thank you. The worry in his expression remained. “Wait here. I’ll fetch you some hot tea with a lot of milk and sugar, like you like it. You’re in shock. Considering the last couple days, it’s not a surprise.” After about five minutes, he returned, wheeling in a cart with a steaming ceramic pot and all the accoutrements.

  “Did you steal someone else’s room service?”

  “Ah, no, but I did scurry through the kitchen and made a pest of myself. A fine woman gave me a pot to get rid of me. Shall I pour for the lady?” He bent to me, pretending to await my order.

  “Yes, please. You seem to know how I take my tea already.”

  “That I do.” He prepared a cup and carefully handed it to me. After a couple of sips, I began to relax. He sat across from me with his elbows on his knees, watching my face for signs of improvement.

  “I’m better. I’m sorry. I think my body is a little off. It scared me when I saw them hit you. I wasn’t prepared for the… brutality of it.” I wasn’t sure why I was so afraid, but it had stunned me as if I’d taken the blow myself.

  “Yet you scampered back to help me just the same. You’re braver than you know.” I finished my tea and he quickly poured me another cup, urging me to keep drinking. It was soothing. After a few minutes, as he prepared my third, I removed the blanket, and took my hair down from the askew pony tail. I used my fingers to put it back in some order over my shoulders. I noticed Finn frozen in place, watching me, poised to pour the milk. When our eyes met, he finished with a smile.