Exton

Rath leans against a table and watches Laila speaking animatedly to the pretty blonde fae. His thoughts move between irritation, anger and pleasure.

Well, she has made a friend. One of the group from the tavern. Hmm... this may be a way to closer to that dark-haired one, the one that seems easily mesmerized. On the other hand, she may be able to find some useful information for me... and Theokratos. Maybe I will just let her have her little friend for now...

Moving quietly Laila and Star are unaware of Raths approach until he is standing next to the bench. Laila falls silent and her face goes white. Star is afraid of the vampire and looks over her shoulder to see if Erik is watching.

Raina looks up from the drinking game she is playing with the group. “Oh shit. Erik... that vampire is talking to his girl and Star looks...”

Raina didnt get another word out and Erik was on feet, walking towards the bench and his wife. He heard Ramji mutter something under his breath and knew that the studied look of nonchalance was just that... a look. He was sure if the vampire made a move the riders would be there in an instant.

“Princess... is everything all right? You look a little... tired....” Erik looks down at Rath who is several inches shorter than the big Viking.

Star smiles, relief plain in her expression. “I'm fine. Erik, this is my friend, Laila. And this is...” She looks at Rath and back to Laila.

Rath extends a hand to Erik. “Call me Rath. I was just telling Laila that I was glad to see she has someone to talk to. I'm afraid she gets a little lonely with just me for company.” He turns his attention from Erik to Laila. “Enjoy yourself. I will be occupied this evening and will not need your service. Be home before its time to lock up for the day.”

Rath turns and walks away leaving Laila stunned. “I wonder what that was about. He never lets me do anything....”

Laila turns to Star and starts to tremble, “I dont trust him, he has something up his sleeve.”

Star and Erik exchange a look and Star wraps her arms around Laila. Star whispers, trying to offer some support and says, “Well, at least you can stay with us for awhile longer....”

Laila nods and the conversation resumes. Erik stays close to the girls, wanting Star to have as much time with Laila as possible.