Exton

Alise is dancing with Tomas to a slow song. He is all smiles as Alise holds him close and twirls with him, enjoying some special time with his maman. Tara is content to watch with Stoney, feeling safer with him when there are so many people about. Tara still had not learned to control the empath side of her and so close by could be overwhelming for the little girl.

Alise watches as Laila comes in, feeling sorry for the girl and wishing there was some way to knock Rath out for awhile. He was so mean to Laila, not in a calculated way but more dismissive, as if she were an annoying puppy that should be caged, not left to wander around on its own.

I wonder if Nick knows of something we can do.... maybe we can drug him....

Her thoughts are interrupted by a scolding, Chaton, we cant do that.... 

Who says? She sends her thoughts to Stoney as she and Tomas twirl by.

Star is watching too, as she hands Mera to Keon, her eyes changing color with worry for her new friend. She glances at Gunnaar and to Erik. “This is silly. I am going to go over there and talk to her.”

Gunnaars head snaps up. “Nein, little sister. I dont think you should...”

At the stubborn look on Stars face he turns to Erik, “Talk to your wife, she needs to take care...” but Star had turned and was headed across the dance floor.

Erik sighs and follows. He goes to the bar and talks to Monty, never taking his eyes off Star. I doubt if Rath would start anything here, but just in case....

Star walks right up to Laila, who is still standing near Raths booth, silently waiting for Raths commands. Laila smiles at Stars approach then dips her head again. Rath will never let me talk to her. I hope she understands...

“Do I need to ask him for permission for you to speak to me?” Star asks softly.

Laila gave a small shrug, not knowing what to say. No one had ever tried to talk to her before when Rath was around.

Glancing from one to the other, Star takes a deep breath and walks to the booth. Rath is snuggling with a blonde woman, his eyes looking down her low cut shirt.

Star clears her throat nervously. She knows Erik and the riders are all watching and any one of them would come to her aid if needed.

“Excuse mmm..me. I want to tt...talk to Laila...”

Rath looks up, an amused expression on his face. He watches as Stars eyes change colors, his thoughts calculating and selfish.

“Of course, you may talk to her. In fact, I dont think we will need her, and her hovering is annoying to say the least.”

His attention turns to the quiet girl, “You can go. Visit with your friend. I will summon you when I have need of your services.”

Lailas head snaps up, first looking at Rath, then at Star. She smiles, unsure of what to say. “Thank you, master.”

Star grabs her hand and laughing pulls Laila to the back of the tavern where the family table is set up.