She watched him as she had watched him for the past two days. She knew how he moved, how fast his reflexes were, and that he had an insatiable hunger for women. The man went through women like a drunkard through ale. It was his weakness and her weapon that she would slay his male pride with.

He was her challenge, her test in life to prove to herself that she was the best. He would be the one to prove to herself as well as the world of thieves that she not only was good but that she was better than most. A goal she had worked for since she could remember. She had been too innocent, too naive for the life of a thief. Daemon had said it, fellow thieves had said it but she had proved them wrong. It was time to prove it to herself.

It had been rumored that there was a man in Scotland who had caught the most notorious of thieves in the act. It didn�t matter how they went about it, whether they snuck into his tent or tried to lift his purse while he was walking, he always caught them. Even the women. They said the women would lift his purse, take a tumble in the hay and walk away satisfied and richer. Until they realized they no longer had the pouch of money.

The rumors only made her more determined. She would get that pouch from him without lowering herself to a whore. She would get it from him with the good graces of luck and skill. Hard earned skill. She scanned the crowd for him and smiled when she spotted him. No one ever mentioned his name but every thief worth his salt knew what he looked like by heart.

He was her challenge, the gauntlet that the thieving world had thrown. She was more than ready to pick it up and hurl it back at them. It was time to put her plan into action and drop her mask into place.

Demurely she bowed her head as she scuttled across the festivals ground. It was early in the morning but there was already a huge crowd hurrying to and fro. Every few seconds she would peek through her dark lashes to keep him in sight.

He was tall, a few inches over six feet but not skinny. He was broad and well muscled like a seasoned warrior. He wore brown breeches, a white shirt, and his clans colors draped over his shoulder. There was not an ounce of flab on his perfectly sculpted body. His hair was blonde and longer than most men�s and he walked with an arrogance of a born ruler. The planes of his face were hard and unforgivable, his lips chiseled with a hint of cruelty. He was every damsel�s in distress dream but she wondered if he would be her nightmare. She didn�t know his first name. She tried to push the clinging thought away but it kept coming back to make her ponder. She always knew everything about her victims but this time she didn�t.

She knew he was usually alone but he arrived with two men. She knew which horse was his and that he took excellent care of it. She knew he was wealthy and arrogant enough not to hide it. Yet after two days she still didn�t know his name first name. Vixen realized she would have to accept the irritating fact but she was far from satisfied. Dismissing her frustration she looked around for the source of her irritation.

He was flirting with another woman; she had come to realize that the man flirted with every passable pretty female he saw. The woman gave him an inviting smile, leaned closer and all but draped herself over him. Smiling indulgently he disentangled himself before charming his way to retreat. It took a few moments but finally the woman waved him off with a hopeful expression. He gave the woman one last sensual look before he sauntered off.

If she had been a woman that daydreamed she would dream every day that he gave her that look. Her thoughts began to wander as she imagined draping herself over him. He would never look twice at her though and the truth of that shattered the fantasy. Vixen gave herself a mental slap as she turned towards him. She had to stay focused.

He was getting closer to her and she sped up so that it would seem she was in a hurry. She took a deep breath as she drew closer to him and Bam! There bodies collided and in that one dazed moment desire hit her so hard she thought she might faint from the sheer force of it. She had thought she was prepared for this, that the feel of him would do nothing to her. She had believed that he was just another man, that she would only feel a passing interest. She was wrong, very wrong.

His arms closed around her and for a moment she couldn�t breathe. Then remembering her mission she deftly untied his bag of coins from his breeches and hid them in the basket she was carrying. She chanced a quick glance up and her breath caught. His eyes were roaming slowly over her body as if his gaze could devour her whole.

His gaze finished its thorough examination of her and met her glazed stare. If she wasn�t made of stronger stuff she would have fainted into a hot puddle. He was giving her that look, that look she had watched him give countless women but never dreamed he would give her.

He had the most beautiful green eyes she had ever seen and for a moment she felt as if she knew them. Not giving her that hot look of seduction but a warmer, softer one of love. That was dreaming, stupid dreaming that she would never lower herself to. Annoyed with herself she pushed his arms away and stepped smartly back. He stepped closer and her mouth dried.

Bowing her head in submission she stuttered a quick apology. �s-s-sorry. I was in a hurry and well I was but...� Vixen squelched a snort of self disgust at the simpering role she was playing. The man gave an arrogant nod as if it was all her fault that she had stumbled into him. Of course it was her fault, she planned it but his arrogance angered her. She gave an apologetic smile before she ruined her charade by losing her temper.

�Be happy� she said before she turned away. She didn�t know why she said it, she only knew that it seemed right and familiar. His eyes clouded with something she couldn�t name and she took the distraction to hurry away. He called after her but she ignored him and lost herself in the crowd.

Tables were scattered everywhere, bright vibrant cloths covering them. The owners stood behind them as they called people over and sold them there wares. Families were strolling, stopping here and there to look at something that caught their eyes. Children were running around laughing with sticky fingers from the confection stand. Jewels winked in the morning sunlight and the smell of chocolate sweets hung heavy in the air. Clans walked around boasting of the past days competitions and winners. She watched as two urchins eyed the pastry table with a gleam in their eyes that she recognized in herself before she had been taught to hide it.

Vixen walked up to the table without hesitation and gave the man a few gold coins. The man behind the table gaped at her and started to question her but she stopped him.

�Those two over there, for any trouble they might get in.� The man�s gaze slid past her to the urchins before he gave a knowing nod and pocketed the money.

�Aye lassie I ken ya. I�ll be sure to spread the word.� She thanked the man before walking away but only so far so that she was out of line of vision but she could still see the pair of children.

They took there time about it and were smart enough to act as if they weren�t interested in the food but finally they snuck up. She had to admit they were good for their age but not good enough to survive for very long unless they improved. The man had been watching them covertly and turned away when he noticed them sneaking up. She could of kissed him in gratitude but watched instead as they took a loaf of warm bread before running off.

The man beckoned to a boy who had come walking up and looked amazingly like him. He bent down to whisper in the boy�s ear and the boy gave a series of nods. The boy looked at the backs of the retreating boys then ran up to join them. The man turned to the table beside him and started gesturing to the boys and Vixen had to blink away tears before turning away. It was rare that someone was that understanding to a thief of any age. She would speak with the man later and ask a favor.

It was time she returned to her own little boy who was waiting expectantly for her. She smiled fondly as she thought of Jamie. He was so loving and innocent and yet he seemed wizened beyond his tender age. He understood that there was a part of his uncle�s heart that was dark and some would call evil but well hidden. He was free with Daemon as though his uncle were an angel and could only do good. He ignored Daemon�s cold dull eyes and would sing rowdy songs or think of something witty to say until his uncle�s eyes were no longer so cold and lifeless. She liked to think he got his hopeful naive innocence from her and his love of shiny things.

They both were attracted to them as if it were some magnet that they were helpless to resist. No matter how much Jamie was attracted or fond of his precious shiny object he always ended up giving it away. He had given his latest gold ring away to a orphan girl last week without a second thought. He was so selfless sometimes it brought tears to her eyes. Her boy needed a new bauble, a new toy to replace the one he had selflessly given away.

Vixen headed towards the jewelers table shading her eyes against the glitter of them. There were necklaces, broaches, rings, fragile sculptures of glass, and other such trinkets. She didn�t want a trinket for Jamie that he would just give away again. She wanted something that he would keep and remember her with even when he found out the truth.

A gold chain glittered in the sun and caught her undivided attention. It was exquisite in the sunlight, elegant and beautiful but not feminine. It was perfect for him but it needed something, a trinket that he could take on or off when he chose.

She studied every piece of jewelry on the table and in the end found nothing she wanted to put on the chain. She was so absorbed she hadn�t realized that she had been staring at the table of jewels for over an hour. The merchant behind the table watched as she returned to the gold chain and traced it with her nimble fingers again. The woman was driving him crazy with frustration but every time he opened his mouth to speak she hushed him. Her eyes had lit up the minute she saw the necklace and they both knew she was going to buy it so why was she still browsing? It was another ten minutes before the woman pointed to the gold chain and turned to him. �That one, how much?� she asked. The man rattled off the price and she didn�t even blink. She reached into her basket, pulled out the correct amount and handed it to him. The merchant grinned, wished her good day and handed her the chain.

Vixen was happy with the chain and held it up admiringly so the sun could glint off of it. It shined and sparkled for her and she knew Jamie would love it. She would explain that they would add a trinket to it later and he would tell her they didn�t have to but the excitement would be in his eyes. Smiling she tucked the necklace carefully in the basket and dreamed about Jamie�s reaction. Daemon often told her she dreamed and planned too often, that she was the most meticulous planner he had ever met.

Preoccupied with her thoughts she didn�t see the man walking towards her until she bumped into his massive chest. She recognized the chest, it was the same muscled chest she had walked purposely walked into earlier and she felt the same uncontrollable desire. This time the arms dragged her closer and lifted her up so that his lips were a hair breath from her ear. �You feel delicious� he whispered. She shivered as fire raced up and down her spine before she tried to wiggle away. He just groaned in a low male voice that made her toes curl and her stomach clench.

�People are starring� she hissed. Some were discreetly looking away, some were covering children�s eyes, and others were gaping. The man was humiliating her in public, seducing her in the middle of a festival! The infuriating man looked around and carried her into the trees. Once they were far enough from prying eyes he hooked her legs around his waist and pushed her up against a tree.

A deep, carnal pleasure rolled through her and something deep inside her she yearned for more. The man must have read her mind for he rubbed himself against her and pressed her harder against the rough bark. He gripped her head in his hands, tunneled his fingers into her hair and crushed his warm lips to hers. Vixen gasped at the sensation of such warm needy lips on her own. He took immediate advantage and kept her mouth open with one hand as he let his tongue explore the wet cavern of her mouth. She had no idea that kissing could be so deliciously exciting, so completely wanton. Sanity was fast running away to be replaced by raging desire.

Her stomach would clench and unclench every time he shifted his lips and thrust his tongue deeper in her mouth. Her wet woman�s core ached when he rubbed his very male part against her. She wanted to moan and whimper every time his hand clenched her hair tight almost to the point of pain. It was wonderful, it was invigorating, and it was wicked. Her basket fell from her hands and the gold chain tumbled out. Vixens dazed eyes followed and widened when her eyes fell on the chain.

The aching desires dulled and her mind was able to function again. He was ruining her carefully laid out plan. He was supposed to forget about her during the day but now he would for sure know it was she who stole from him. Groaning she started struggling with everything she had. �Nooo..Jamie...he�s waiting for me� she managed when he finally released her lips. She took a much needed breath of air and pushed away. He released her and she gave a small sigh of relief.

Gathering the chain and basket she turned to him. His gaze was still hot but his face was a cold mask that she couldn�t interpret. He didn�t stop her when she turned heel and ran. She fleetingly wondered why he looked at her so coldly but didn�t dwell on it as she disappeared into the festival. She had one goal now and that was to get to Jamie and Daemon before the man realized she had stolen from him. When she was far enough away she brought her hand to her still swollen lips for the barest of seconds before dropping it guiltily.

�The dirty thieving whore� Laird Ian O�Donnell growled. He paced his tent like a caged beast. Amateur, an ex thief himself just sat there and watched him. Ian had been hurling insults for the better part of the day and Amateur struggled not to laugh. The mighty laird had finally fallen from his pedestal or rather he had been pushed. And by a woman. It was a very historic moment. �Ian� Amateur tried interjecting but Ian ignored him. He wasn�t just angry he was furious. Amateur knew he could care less about the stolen money. The woman was in dire trouble. She had bested him and she would have to pay. Amateur was intrigued enough to help if the man would listen to him.

He wouldn�t deny it was a two sided betrayal. He had sat back and watched Vixen rob Ian without blinking an eye and he was about to hand her over to the executioner with a chuckle. Vixen would probably scalp him alive if Ian hadn�t killed him by then. He had been torn by loyalty and in the end he had stayed loyal to both and yet betrayed them at the same time. Life had become very interesting.

�Ian� he tried again. Ian finally stopped hurling insults to air long enough to glare at him. �What?� he demanded. Amateur became keenly uncomfortable with those furious eyes now directed at him. He reminded himself he wasn�t the one that had stolen from Ian. He was glad the one time he did try he hadn�t succeeded but Vixen did. Despite everything he was damn proud of her. He would make sure he told her so before she scalped him.

�What would you do if you found her?� he asked.

Ian didn�t even hesitate when he gave his answer. �I�d make her pay, instantly, my way. Then I�d take her precious Jamie, string him up by his balls and let the bastard die.� Ian didn�t notice that Amateurs eyes had turned cold as he slowly sat up.

�When I find her-�

�Ian�

�She won�t get away�

�O�Donnell� Amateur said. It was said so softly and without any trace of emotion that Ian turned around to stare at him. Amateur had only talked like that once before, right after he had killed a man.

�Jamie may be a bastard but you will never call him such again. Not in my presence or anywhere near me.� Amateur looked Ian directly in the eye, daring him to challenge him. The air became charged with temper and cold calculation. Neither man would give an inch if Ian didn�t agree. There was a split second of silence as each man sized up his opponent.

Ian stared intently at Amateur before giving a curt nod. He wouldn�t ask about Amateurs defense of the man, it was obviously important to him. The man was entitled to his privacy and Ian understood that.

Amateur�s good humor returned as if someone had turned on a switch. He started chuckling, leaned back in his chair and prepared to die. It was a heck of a story to tell whether he went to heaven or hell.

�Vixen may be a thief but she is not a whore� he felt compelled to point out. He wanted to be able to tell her later that he had defended her honor if he was still alive. He could imagine her giving him a warm smile, a fond peck on the cheek and then handing him over to Daemon for a quick and easy demise.

�When a woman is as hot as she was to fuck, steals your money right from under your dick and then runs to another man I call her a whore� he growled. Amateur patiently waited for Ian to understand what he just deliberately revealed but Ian wouldn�t realize until he was good and ready. He needed another push. Amateur was just asking to die, he knew it and yet he still persevered. He thought he was very brave, he would tell Vixen and she would say she always knew he was brave.

�Vixen didn�t steal from you when you were trying to get under her skirts. She did it when she bumped into you earlier. I�m mighty proud of her, not that it would save me but it couldn�t hurt. She might forgive me in time or if she gave me a minute to expla-�

He was abruptly cut off when Ian�s head snapped up and in seconds he had Amateur by the throat. Yep, he was either brave or very stupid. Funny how he never noticed before that Ian was even stronger than he appeared. �Explain yourself� Ian demanded.

Amateur gurgled and lifted his eyebrows. Ian released him and Amateur glared at him while rubbing his neck. At least he wasn�t dead yet but the day wasn�t over. If he was lucky he would get trampled by a horse before he had to face Vixen and Daemon. He opened his mouth to explain but Davey, Ian�s best friend, walked in.

Davey took one look at Ian�s angry face and Amateurs hands still rubbing his neck and sighed. �Well Amateur why aren�t you dead yet?� he said as he swaggered over to a chair and sat. Amateur gave him a look that said this is not my fault and I don�t know why you�re blaming me. Davey didn�t believe it for a second.

�This is the story of how Vixen, the world�s greatest thief, bested Laird Ian O�Donnell without seducing him� he began and ignored Ian�s look of warning. It was his tale and he would tell it as he sought fit. �I personally know Vixen and must admit she is a delightful creature. She�s light on her feet and plans like no other. The most complicated plans that only she can ever understand or execute. They are so hard to understand it hurts my brain sometimes just hearing about them. Why one time-� He was cut off by Ian�s low growl but conceded to finish his tale.

�Well she likes to plan. She planned and watched you for two days. I wouldn�t of noticed her myself except that I had heard that she was here and planning on stealing from you.� No one questioned where he had heard it from they knew that he still kept in touch with other thieves. �Well I made sure I kept out of site and watched you. She knew who you were immediately and trailed after you like a dog. I was surprised that you didn�t notice�

It had come as a surprise that Ian had not felt the constant presence that followed him like a shadow. It was a testimony to Vixens skill but Amateur was smart enough not to point that out. �I watched her watch you and she was never far from you. She only left when you were with a woman; she had a lad trail after you then. She left at night too and again had the lad watch you.�

He paused to rub at his neck again and take in Ian�s reaction. His face was blank but his eyes were cold. �Each morning the lad would find her and tell her where you were. Then she find you and follow you the whole day, staying far enough away that you wouldn�t notice her but close enough she could observe.�

�Two days was all she watched but it was enough for her. She ran into you this morning and stole your money without you even noticing. I wasn�t the only one watching her, word spread like wildfire. If I hadn�t watched her do it I would have heard of it not five minutes later. I would have followed her after to congratulate her but then I noticed you.�

He wasn�t going to apologize for feeling happy for Vixen. He wasn�t going to apologize for not stopping her, but he was doing something now. He looked each man in the eye so they understood his position. Davey shrugged and Ian gave a slight nod. Relief poured through Amateur and his mood lightened. Ian wasn�t going to kill him.

�You lusted after her, that was clear and after she left you were distracted.� He refrained from mentioning that he had watched Ian look for her and had finally found her. �She ran into you and you hoisted her into the woods. She did not steal from you then as you assumed. She has too much pride for that�

There was a silence where both men waited for Ian�s reaction. He sat there quiet and still as a stone. That was only a mask to the man�s real emotions, there was a fury in his eyes that he could not conceal. Not a muscle moved as he sat in the chair controlling his emotions. Finally he looked Amateur dead in the eye and demanded �Where is she?�

Vixen sat on a log studying the flames from the fire that rose high and made wondrous images if she looked hard enough. It was a game she often played with Jamie but he was arguing with Daemon about the last image they had seen.

�It was a mermaid.� Jamie stubbornly insisted.

Daemon glowered at him. �A fairy. How you could mistake a fairy for a mermaid is beyond me.� It didn�t occur to the two males they were arguing about fictional creatures.

�I saw the fin and all that hair.� Both stared hard at each other as if that was enough for the other to admit defeat.

�You mistook the wings for a tail. Next town we go into were getting your eyes checked.�

Jamie took offense and stood up to take a battle stance. His legs were spread wide, his arms cocked arrogantly on his hips and his head tipped angrily back so he could glare at his uncle. �We�re getting your eyes and mind checked.�

Daemon narrowed his eyes and mirrored Jamie�s pose at that insult. �You saying my mind isn�t stable boy?� Daemon challenged.

Jamie nodded. �That�s exactly what I�m saying. You must have some mental things going on if you can�t tell the difference between a mermaid and a fairy.�

She couldn�t help it, Vixen burst into loud gales of laughter. She laughed and laughed while the two most important males in her life ignored her and continued their arguing. A rustle near a few trees caught her attention and she stopped laughing.

Every nerve and sense she possessed went on alert. Daemon immediately noticed the change in her and pushed Jamie behind him. She came to stand beside him and they stood there ready to fly into action in a bare minimum of seconds.

Everything was quiet; the tension that had suddenly entered the air demanded that not a sound be made. Even Jamie was silent and still, recognizing that a threat was near. The spot were the rustle had come from was still as if nothing had disturbed it. Both Daemons and Vixens eyes were trained on the spot looking for even the slightest movement.

�Hell.� The word was said in an exasperated tone and surprisingly familiar voice. Vixen tried to place the voice with a face. She didn�t get the chance to dig far enough into her memory. A man stepped into view and she gasped. Jamie echoed her gasp but with a little more excitement.

�Amateur?� she whispered.

He gave her that carefree grin. �Were you expecting someone else? I�m hurt.� He placed a hand to his heart in a dramatic gesture to show just how hurt he was. Vixen grinned back and launched herself into his opening arms. He picked her up and spun her around and around until she begged him to put her down.

�Where�s the little urchin who stole the love of my life?� He asked impudently.

Jamie stepped from behind his uncle and cocked an eyebrow. �Daemon says I didn�t steal her, she just loves me more.�

Amateur charged him, threw him over his shoulder and playfully wacked Jamie�s bottom. Jamie squealed and giggled but to no avail. Amateur turned to Daemon who was watching them blankly and held out his hand. �Still arguing with the kid about fictional creatures, huh?�

Daemon gave the kid a hard glare and mumbled under his breath. Grudgingly he shook the hand and plucked Jamie from Amateurs grip. Jamie wiggled away and ran to hide behind Vixen. He stopped when he noticed the two men who emerged from the trees and stared at him.

Everyone stared at the intruders before they jumped into action. Vixen grabbed Jamie, pushed him behind her and pulled a long whip out of her basket. Daemon and Amateur moved to stand protectively beside her, Amateur grinning arrogantly with a sharp knife in his hand and Daemon seemingly relaxed but his every muscle tense.

They stood evaluating each other a long time, like two opposing forces on a battlefield. Vixen knew who they were; one was the laird she had stolen from and the other his friend. Where was the other friend? Her eyes darted behind the two men but she could see no sign of another man. Had the two of them came alone?

The larger man, the one she had stolen from, shifted his gaze from her to Amateur. �Why do you protect this whore from me?� Vixen�s eyes flashed, her chin set stubbornly and she took an aggressive step forward.

Before she could tear him to pieces for insulting her Daemon spoke up. �That is no way to speak to a lady in front of a young, active and impressionable mind. I would advice you to watch your tongue when you�re around the lad.�

The lad was currently peeking through Vixen�s leg and starring up at the two men curiously. Ian glanced at the boy and realized he was indeed absorbing every detail about the encounter. The boy didn�t know that his mother was a slut and thief. His father did though, the man standing beside the thief had not denied the name he had given her. He had not forbidden him to call her a slut when the boy was not around; the father probably called her a whore himself.

�I will refrain from speaking my mind around the child.� The man nodded and stepped back. Vixen immediately took another step forward. She would not be cowed by this man, this man who had mysteriously found her. She replayed the last moments in her head and swung her gaze to Amateur. He paled and took a quick step back.

�Vixen I can explain.� He chanced a quick glance at Daemon. He looked bored but Amateur wasn�t fooled. The man was as angry as Vixen but waiting for her decision. He hoped he could convince her to make merciful one. �I would never, never, bring a threat to you or Jamie. Never.�

Her eyes were raging fire as she pondered the sincerity of his last words. He would never harm Jamie, never put Jamie in danger. He treasured the boy as a younger brother, a younger brother who was devoted to him. He wouldn�t bring the men here if he thought they would harm them. She had trusted him and strangely even after he had brought the men she still did.

�Tonight. After Jaime�s in bed you can explain. These men you have brought, they are your responsibility. I do not have what they have come to retrieve; it is gone and will never be returned. Do what you wish with them but their journey here is fruitless. Tonight you will explain, you will have no second chances if you fail to.�

Amateur nodded, fully understanding. If he didn�t justify his actions, she would let Daemon handle him anyway he saw fit. The brotherly fondness would be pushed aside and forgotten in the light of betrayal. It was unforgivable to betray another thief, the only security they had in the world was that their comrades would keep silent. Breaking that unwritten rule was like breaking the holy word.

Jamie was not happy with the plans and pushed his way forward. �Vixen I want him to explain while I�m awake, not sleeping.� He looked adorable like a little lord of the manor demanding his supper. She resisted the urge to cuddle him close and kiss him. He would be embarrassed and resist her goodnight kisses for a week. �No.�

�I want to hear what he has to say.�

�I will tell you tomorrow morning.�

�I want to hear tonight.�

�I want you to hear tomorrow.�

Jamie stared long and hard and Vixen before conceding defeat. He could win an argument with Daemon; with Amateur but never Vixen. When he was grown up he�d make her tell him everything though. Yeah she would have to listen to him when he was a warrior cause everyone did what a warrior said. Pleased with the thought he nodded his agreement.

Vixen held out a hand to him and he happily took it. They strolled over to the log, Daemon following like shadow, and sat on the log again. They resumed their game, ignored the two men who stared at them and tried to cajole Daemon into joining the game again. He wouldn�t be dragged into the game though and unlike them his gaze never wavered from the two men.

Amateur decided it was time to break the tension and smooth things over as best he could. He motioned to Davey and Ian to join him as far away from whom he considered his family as he could. Ian waited until they just barely got out of earshot before he let loose. �Where is my money?� he demanded. He didn�t wait for an answer but plowed on. �Gone? How could she use that much money in such a short time? Damn it, I will get my money back!�

Davey was thoroughly enjoying himself. He hadn�t seen Ian this riled over a woman in a long, long time. Especially a woman with blue eyes and black hair that he usually avoided like the plague. He had a nagging sense that he knew her, that he had seen her somewhere before. He shrugged the feeling off and returned listening to Amateur trying to convince Ian to wait till nightfall before demanding his money that was already gone.

�Wait. They do a lot to insure that the boy is sheltered and unaware of what they do.�

�They try to keep him unaware that his mother is a thief and a whore?�

�Jamie is unaware for a reason and I will not see it go to waste.�

�Jamie is the child?�

�Yes. Keep quiet until the child is asleep. I know you will not do this for them but for me.� Amateur was so busy trying to convince Ian that he didn�t notice that Ian had lost most of his temper. Davey had been watching Ian carefully though and noticed the change immediately. That was interesting, very interesting. His next question was even more interesting. �While she was with me, where was the child?�

Amateur was thrown off by the question and answered without thinking. �Waiting here of course. They have a routine that they stick to and rarely deviate. Jamie does not know what they are doing when one is gone and it is important he does not know.� He rambled on again about keeping quiet but Davey noticed Ian had stopped listening. His whole demeanor had changed and he thoroughly examined the child.

Ian waved a hand to cut him off. �Enough. I will keep this secret for you.� Amateur stopped rambling and smiled. �So you will go back to the festival and return later?� He looked so hopeful that Davey laughed loud enough to cause Vixen to spare him a brief glance. Ian shook his head, walked to a tree and sat at its base. Davey shrugged and went to sit with him, ignoring Amateurs groan.

Vixen spent the rest of the day trying to ignore his persistent gaze. His eyes never left her; never wavered no matter where she went or what she did. She would never admit it but his eyes unnerved her, she had never had anyone keep their entire focus on her. Daemon often shifted so that she was partially hidden from him but he still stared.

The afternoon dragged slowly into evening and tensions ran high. Amateur tried to peacemaker but he was busy rehearsing his explanation. The other man, the one who had yet to say a word just stared and smiled. He glanced at his companion, glanced at her and smiled. Occasionally his smile would widen or he would even chuckle when Daemon would block her from view or touch her. She was thoroughly confused and wondered if he was feeling ill.

Dusk finally arrived and Daemon dragged her into the shadows. He gave her a blank stare and started asking questions before she could explain anything. �Where is the man�s money?�

�Jamie�s wearing it.�

�The chain?� She nodded and he gave an approving nod. It was the first rule he had taught her about stealing, after you did the deed you either hid or spent the money but you never keep it the money with you. She never forgot anything he taught her, never.

�What went wrong with your plan?� She winced. It was unfair that he should instinctively know her plan went awry. �We ran into each other twice and the second time was more memorable than the first.�

Daemons eyes narrowed as he studied her. �How memorable?� Vixen was hesitant to tell him the whole truth, she had never told him an untruth but this was different. Men had kissed her before but she had never liked it. She had liked his kisses.

�He kissed me� she mumbled guiltily. Daemon studied the slight blush and dreamy look that entered her eyes. He sighed and accepted fate; he had never fought it and wasn�t going to start now.

�Good.� Her eyes widened at his simple statement. �Good?� she repeated. He nodded, mussed her hair and ordered her to suck on her lips for a moment. Vixen gave him a curious stare but obeyed. Daemons plans were often simple yet reliable until she messed them up.

He stepped back to study the results and was satisfied. �When you go back out there I want you to remember his kiss, remember why it was so different then lick your lips. Just once and ignore him. Don�t look at him until Amateur explains. Pay close attention to his friend and if you have to look at him pretend he hit me.�

Vixen was dying of curiosity but knew Daemon well enough that he would not tell her his plan until after she messed it up. She walked out of the forest, Daemon close behind her and followed his instructions perfectly. A soft flush rose up in her face, her face softened in desire as she remembered the feelings the kiss evoked. She glanced back at Daemon and he actually smiled. She didn�t realize the picture she made, didn�t realize how it would appear to everyone else. Daemon did and smiled when the man�s eyes narrowed and his friend raised an eyebrow. Vixen noticed the eyebrow and gave him a soft dreamy smile before turning her attention to him. His eyes were intense with some emotion she was too inexperienced to understand.

She pictured him hurting not only Damien but Jamie too. Her eyes frosted over, she stiffened and disdain was clearly written on her face. She didn�t realize that. She turned her back on him. Daemon draped an arm over her shoulder, leaned in close and whispered. �Perfect. Magnificent. I�m damn proud of you. For all of it, even if you did get caught.�

She gave him a breathtaking smile, her eyes glowing with love. Every male saw it before she turned and walked back to Jamie. Joy surged through her as she replayed his words, silently memorizing every syllable. She hadn�t realized it but that is what she stole for, that was why this time had been so important. To see his approval, to see the light that so rarely shined in his eyes.

She forgot all about the two men and spent the rest of the afternoon playing with Jamie and Amateur. The intruders darkening presence did not intimidate her, she was so filled with contentment that she hardly noticed him. Vixen was so content she didn�t notice that the laird�s eyes darkened and his muscles bunched every time she smiled at Daemon, every time she laughed. Dinner was served and because she wanted to set a good example for Jamie she gave Amateur some food to feed the intruders with. She didn�t look to see their reaction, didn�t expect a thank you. Vixen argued with Jamie while eating.

�Nay, I dont want to go to Ireland� she broke a piece of bread in half and handed a peace to Jamie. He bit it before answering. �We�ve never been there and its close.� He lowered his voice to a whisper. �There are fairies over there. I want to show one to Daemon.�

Mischief sparkled in his eyes and she tried unsuccessfully to bite back a smile. He was always trying to get a reaction out of his uncle whether good or bad. He was so young yet he understood that any reaction was better than none. She loved Jamie more than anything in the world, he was her world. For that alone she would take him to Ireland but for loving his uncle Vixen would give him Ireland. He didn�t need to know that though.

�Fairies? Nay they have goblins prowling about. I don�t want to be eaten by a monster.� She shuddered. He eyed her suspiciously and she gave him a reluctant look. �I�ve heard they�re huge and can eat ten Vikings whole.�

�Ten?�

�Aye, Vikings�

Jamie considered this for a long moment. He had no wish to be eaten by some giant monster in a dark forest. The temptation to prove Daemon wrong was too great to resist though. Vixen was scared and that changed things. He loved her and just the thought of her scarred brought tears to his eyes. He would do anything, go anywhere for her, protect her from anything. Even from goblins. He grinned. He could protect her from them and Daemon could help. He was going to be a warrior so why not start now? He would get to prove Daemon wrong after all and become a warrior.

�I�m not scared. We can protect you and then you won�t be scared no more. Right?� His eyes were fierce and he had that stubborn look about him. Despite the fact that he was pleading, she could see it plainly.

�Protect me. Are you sure you can do it?� She stared him straight in the eye and saw the determination. He believed completely he could do it. He nodded solemnly and she had to stifle a laugh. �I believe you. We can go to Ireland.�

He gave a triumphant shout before hugging her. Vixen smiled when his enthusiasm almost choked her before he let go to run over to Daemon. Daemon gave his approval then Jamie hurried over to Amateur. Immediately the two bent there heads as if in a conspiracy and discussed Ireland.

Finally Jamie laid down and slept. They had to wait a while why he pretended to sleep before he dozed off. The intruders paced while they waited but didn�t question, they realized the child was faking. Amateur made sure he was sleeping deeply before he motioned the men over.

�Vixen this is Laird Ian O�Donnell.� He pointed to the one she had stolen from. �And this is David, but he is also called Davey� The man offered his hand but her mind had gone fuzzy and she didn�t notice it. Davey. Her mind tried to catch the stray thought, a phrase she had once heard before Davey. Davey what?

�Davey, Davey the guardian� she blurted out, triumphant that she had remembered the name. Both men�s eyes narrowed as they centered their complete focus on her. Ian took a menacing step forward �Where did you hear that name?� Vixen frowned. She didn�t understand why they were so tense about it. �I don�t know, I just remembered it from somewhere. Why?�

The men ignored her question as they shared a look that spoke volumes. Why did the name mean so much? Amateur quickly stepped forward. �Laird, David� He made sure he emphasized David. �This is Vixen, Daemon and Jamie is the child.� Davey gave her a friendly smile and Ian coolly ignored her. She shrugged; it was the reaction she expected from him. Powerful men did not take kindly to anyone besting them.

�Your money is gone, spent. Why is it you�re still here?� She asked the question boldly but with a hint of curiosity, it was her nature.

Ian really looked at her and for a moment emotion raged in his gorgeous eyes before they chilled. �I am in need of your services.� Daemon immediately stood up and Amateur, God love him, pushed Vixen behind him. Ian laughed harshly �Not those services. She could hardly satisfy a boy.� The insult was direct and his eyes never left hers while he was speaking. �I have need of your thieving skills as repayment for the money I lost.� She meant to tell him no. Nothing else. She didn�t want to give him the satisfaction of her anger or the sudden flash of pain, but despite herself his remark had hurt. �Ah. What shall I steal for the mighty laird? Money? Priceless treasures? Some helpless souls prized possession? A love slave from her master?� Anger blazed in her eyes and turned her into an avenging goddess. For a brief moment an answering heat flared in his eyes despite the cold angry mask he wore.

�No�

�Almighty Laird, what shall I steal for you?� He clenched his fist and Vixen couldn�t help but smirking. She couldn�t help the effect he had on her and was smugly satisfied that she could shake his control. Vixen could actually see him leash his anger before answering her.

�The Jewel Castle.�

Vixen frowned. The name was familiar yet completely foreign all at once. Ian�s eyes bore into hers and she turned away. She was curious about the item and the man knew it despite only knowing her for a few hours. Could he also see every other emotion she was feeling? Did he know that she wanted to lose herself in his hot kisses again? Did he see the heat flashing in her eyes when she looked at him? God she hoped not.

�Laird, I do not mean to be rude but I cannot steal a castle. They are firmly planted to the ground and it would be difficult to steal it without someone noticing.� Her words were sympathetic and disappointed but her eyes flashed defiance.

His only reaction was the tightening of his jaw. Amateur began coughing uncontrollably but Vixen noticed the slight tilt to his mouth. He immediately stopped when Ian glared at him. �Not a real castle, a jewel castle.� Ian practically snarled the words. �A statue shaped like a castle but made out of diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, amethysts, rubies, and gold.�

Vixen�s eyes lit with excitement and curiosity. A castle made of jewels, it must have cost a fortune to construct. Adrenaline rushed through her as she began picturing the details of obtaining such a treasure. She already knew it would be a challenge and she relished in the fact. She would do it but the man didn�t need to know that yet.

�A castle made of jewels?� Her tone was bland and her eyes uncaring. When it came to business she could successfully hide her emotions but unfortunately that was the only time. �Why has no one heard of such a treasure and why cannot you retrieve it yourself?��

The implication was clear. Vixen watched his eyes narrow as he realized that she didn�t think he was man enough to do it. Or anything else. He shifted slightly and Daemon tensed. Ian�s gaze locked on Daemon and everyone was still while the two men stared each other down.

�It belongs to the family of a close friend.� Davey quickly interjected. �Only a select few know of its existence.� Ian looked at his companion and a silent message was sent between the two. The laird relaxed slightly and after a tense moment Daemon relaxed too. Vixen heard Davey�s slight exhale of relief.

�Most of the family died off� Ian commented. �It was stolen before it could be given to the last of the family.� Vixen pondered this. There was a lot the Laird was leaving out and for some reason he wanted the history of the treasure to remain hidden. She would comply for a little while but she wouldn�t let him keep the truth from her for long. �Why have you not retrieved it yourself?�

He gave her another glare that showed that he didn�t like that she was challenging him again. The man would have to get over it. �We are enemies. Neither myself or one of mine could ever get past him to find it.�

Vixen gaped at him. �You do not know where it is?� The man wanted her to steal for him; to risk her life for a treasure that�s location was unknown. That wasn�t revenge, it was insanity!

Ian closed his eyes for a brief moment. She didn�t care if he was mad, he could stay mad all he wanted. It still didn�t alter the fact that his plan was daft. �In his castle� he grounded out and his hands tightened into fist. �It is somewhere in his castle.�

She rolled her eyes heavenwards. �Oh yes. Thank you for the additional information because it helps so much.� She began muttering to herself as she paced in front of the fire. A castle, the Jewel Castle was in a castle. Castles were owned by important people and in Scotland by lairds. She was supposed to steal from one laird and give the prize to another laird. The thieving laird was close enough to know every one of Ian�s clan members so the thieving laird would be close. Close enough to do the deed and return to Ian�s holding in one night but also close enough for the thieving laird to give chase.

Ian�s eyes blazed as he watched her pace. Back and forth. Back and forth. She paused to mutter something but almost immediately began pacing again. Vixen stopped to glare at him. �Which laird am I stealing this family treasure from? How far is his castle from yours and when do you want this done?�

His eyes narrowed at her demanding tone but Ian answered her. �Laird

Macgregor, his castle is half a day�s ride from my castle and I want you off of my property a forenight after we reach it.�

Vixen didn�t answer him but began pacing and muttering again. The man was rude and blunt and the most handsome thing she had ever had the misfortune to see. She would have to make several trips to Macgregor�s and go unnoticed. It would be where only the Laird went, somewhere where he was secure in the knowledge that no one would find it.

A secret place, it would have to be in a secret place. A passageway or room. A passageway. A room wouldn�t be safe enough but he could move the treasure from secret passageway to secret passageway without a soul knowing it. It would be made to look useless, to blend into its surroundings.

�How many secret passageways are there?� She didn�t even look at him. Vixen was completely focused on her new task, her new adventure, her new challenge.

�No one knows for certain. There are many and some are booby trapped. Not even the Macgregor knows how many there are or where they are.� Davey chimed in.

She smiled at him. At least someone wanted to be helpful. It would take time to explore the secret passageways and look for the jew-

�Vixen� Daemon said so quietly it almost sounded like a whisper. Immediately she spun to face him. �You have seven days to do this after we reach the Lairds home.�

Vixen did not question him, she did not argue with him. She simply nodded and began to rethink her plans. Her searches would have to be- �I said a forenight� Ian growled. Shocked, Vixen turned to stare at him but he wasn�t looking at her. He was glaring at Daemon. Confused she looked at Daemon who was regarding Ian with cool eyes.

�Seven days.� Daemon replied calmly. They were arguing about how long it would take her to steal? It truly wasn�t their decision and she planned to let them know it.

�It�s not your decision. Some things take time and some things don�t.� Vixen spat at them. �Ill take as long as I please and if you don�t like it then you can find someone else to steal your precious castle.�

She didn�t expect an answer and didn�t get one. Whirling away she returned to her planning. Seven days wasn�t a lot of time to explore all the passageways. It could be done but she wouldn�t have time to truly explore them as she wanted. She wouldn�t have time to satisfy her curiosity or look up the history of the castle.

�Vixen� Daemon said quietly. She stopped her mumbling and pacing to look at him. He gave her a cool gaze that clearly stated that she had as much time as he wanted.

�Yes, yes� Vixen waved her hand impatiently at him. �Seven days, I know. It can be done but I wanted to-�

�A month� Ian gritted out. Exasperated Vixen sighed loudly but neither man paid any attention to her.

Daemon shook his head, his gaze frosty and unwavering. �Seven days. No more. No less.�

�Two months� Ian shot back and they all gaped at him. Except for Daemon who rarely showed emotion. Men were such confusing creatures. Really, arguing over the time it took to steal.

�Laird� she pleaded. �Seven days is plenty-�

�Be quiet.� Daemon commanded. Instantly she quieted despite his demanding tone and lack of manners. Ian stood up and Amateur quickly stepped in front of Daemon.

�Switching loyalties?� Ian sneered at him but Amateur ignored the insult

�No Laird� Amateur smiled at him. �I�m protecting you being the kind and wonderful friend that I am.�

Vixen smiled and kissed Amateur on the cheek. She understood his betrayal now, understood that he was being loyal to both groups as much as he could. Confused he stared at her but she hugged him before he could question her. �You are forgiven for your betrayal but should you ever do so again we will kill you.�

�I understand� Amateur nodded and stepped closer to Daemon who promptly pushed him away.

�I won�t kill you or him� Daemon said and ignored Amateurs sigh of relief. �One month. Vixen has one month to do this service for you.�

Daemon grabbed Vixens wrist and dragged her into the forest. Ian tried to go after them but Amateur stopped him. Frustrated Ian began pacing just like Vixen had done but with more restless energy.

�Ian� Davey calmly said. �Correct me if I�m wrong but don�t we want the dirty thieving whore to spend less time with us?�

Ian scowled at his best friend. �I didn�t like how he commanded her. As if he owned her. She didn�t even argue with him.� He increased his agitated pacing.

Davey hid his smile. �It was a bit unusual. I wonder what hold he has over her and the hold she has over him.�

�You�re right.� Ian agreed. �He follows her like a puppy and does everything she says without resentment. He doesn�t seem the type to follow the dictates of a woman.�

The men looked at Amateur who was sitting closely to Jamie as if keeping watch over the child. �They have a partnership.�

Ian scoffed but Amateur refused to volunteer any more information. Amateur and Davey retired for the night but Ian couldn�t bring himself to go to sleep. He laid down to sleep but he kept staring at the spot where Daemon and Vixen disappeared into the forest.

His muscles were tense and his ears tuned to the slightest sound. Occasionally he would doze but he would jerk awake for no apparent reason. Finally a little after dawn Daemon carried a sleeping Vixen into the clearing and laid her down.

Ian watched as Vixen cuddled into the blanket Daemon rested on top of her before Daemon moved away and laid down to sleep. Ian watched him intently and Daemon held his gaze. After a prolonged moment Daemon smiled slightly and closed his eyes. Scowling Ian finally fell asleep while pondering all the ways he might knock a man like Daemon unconscious.

�Laird. Laird. Wake up� A small voice pleaded shortly after Ian finally fell asleep. �Laird if you don�t wake up Vixen and them are gonna leave without you.�

Ian cracked open one eye to stare at the insistent voice. Jamie, grinning like a witless fool, poked him. Shocked Ian cracked open the other eye. �Leave where?�

�To the festival!� the child poked him again. �Get up!�

�What about Davey?� Ian grumbled. The kid wouldn�t stop poking him so he finally sat up.

�Davey said to leave him the hell alone� Jamie whispered the last words and looked around for Vixen. �He said a lot of other words too but mostly he said to go without him and he�d come later.�

Ian looked around for Davey. He spotted him sleeping with the blanket thrown over his head. He then looked for Vixen. His eyes narrowed as he spotted her smiling at Daemon looking fresh and bright. He looked closer and saw bags under her eyes which gave him a perverse pleasure. At least it did until he wondered what she did all night to put the bags there.

Scowling he strolled over to Davey, kicked him and waited for him to get up. Davey snarled but he threw the blankets off his head to glare at Ian. �What?�

�We�re going to the festival so get up� Without waiting for an answer he turned to go find the most constant source of his frustration. There she was laughing down at Jamie, oblivious to the effect she had on him. Emotions raged in him every time he looked at her. Anger, frustration, amusement, shock, and the strongest of them all was a gut burning desire. A desire to get his hands on her again, to snatch her away from Daemon and claim her as his.

He watched her as she walked up to him. She showed no emotion just like the man she had been with all night. �Laird we�re going to the festival but you can come.�

Vixen had been polite but Ian could see how reluctant she was to issue the invitation. �Why?� he sneered. �Going to go steal from someone else?� No emotion, just a polite smile. He wanted to shake her.

�No.� she smiled again. �I have no need to steal once we reach the festival again.�

�Good.� He smiled cruelly. Ian would try anything to get a reaction from her. �Until you have retrieved the castle you are my thief and my thief alone. You will not steal unless I order it. You are mine.�

Ian watched her eyes widen as she stared at him. He could tell she was replaying the words in her head and then she shivered. A delicate shiver not from fear but from his words. Excitement had sparkled in her eyes, only for a moment but it had been there. She wanted to be his.

Desire hit him hard, a blow straight to his gut. He remembered the way her legs had felt around his waist, the way her soft lips had felt on his and the sweet sounds she had made. His eyes flared with heat and he unconsciously took a step forward.

Immediately she took a step back. She stared at him for a long moment with those soul searing blue eyes. They glittered with challenge, shock, and despite herself desire. Vixen licked her lips quickly and his blood burned like molten lava. She took a step forward and Ian wanted to roar with triumph. He reached out to grab her, to kiss her, but before he could ever touch her soft skin Daemon called out for her.

He growled with frustration at the interruption. Her eyes widened in realization and she stared at him in shock. Daemon called her again and Ian wanted to kill the man. Vixen quickly turned and practically ran to him. Ian�s gaze never left her as she talked with Daemon and he knew both of them were aware of it.

Daemon grabbed her wrist and led her over to Amateur who was regaling stories to Jamie. Jamie ran to her and she hugged him but then she turned around and stared at him.

He didn�t have the slightest clue of what she was thinking but knew that it was about him and that was enough for now.

Vixen watched fondly as Jamie disappeared into the crowd with Amateur. She wished she could go with them but she had other business to attend to. She began walking to the booth where she had found the young thieves the day before. Daemon walked beside her with Davey and Ian trailing. She saw the booth and the owner standing behind it with the two boys and his son. Vixen grabbed Daemon�s wrist and nodded to the booth.

�All of them?� he asked even though he knew the answer.

�All of them� she stated firmly.

They walked up to the booth and two of the boys began to jump up and down excitedly. �Vixen! Vixen!� They shouted before they rushed to hug her despite the fact they didn�t know her. Smiling she hugged them back and watched as they bowed respectfully to Daemon.

Vixen turned to the owner of the booth. �I thank you sir for your kindness to these boys. In return you and your family will be placed under the shadow�s protection permanently as long as you accept these boys in to your family. Do you understand what you are being offered?�

The owner smiled broadly and hugged his son. �Yes I understand perfectly. We accept most graciously and our allegiance belongs to you. Thank you.� He said and bowed to Daemon. It revealed a lot that the owner knew the customs of the shadows and knew how to respond to the offer. Daemon nodded back and then everyone looked at the young thieves still holding on to Vixen.

�Your names please?� Vixen asked.

�I�m Willy� the taller one answered.

�I�m Wally� the other said.

Vixen nodded then dropped to her knees so she could look both boys in their eyes. It was important that they understood what she was going to offer, and she found it effective to talk to children at eye level.

�You know what it means to be under the Shadow�s protection, right?� All thieves knew what it meant to be under the Shadow�s protection but she still waited till both boys had nodded before continuing. �I offer you that protection but it comes with a few conditions. The owner and his family are now your family and you must treat them that way. That means no stealing from them or their friends. The owner will put you to work and you must do it. You must learn another skill besides thieving but you must also improve you thieving skills. Do you understand?�

Both boys nodded solemnly. �We understand. Our allegiance belongs to you.� Pleased Vixen handed each boy a coin, including the owner�s son. She looked at the owner. �What is your name sir and what clan do you claim?�

�Mack O�Connell.� He replied proudly. She nodded absently while Mack sent the boys to his wife. She recalled that they had two shadows in the O�Connell clan. Vixen waited until the boys had left before speaking again. �Follow me Mack.�

Mack didn�t ask any questions and followed her. They walked past people and booths ignoring the whispers and the people following them. There were many at this festival who understood the workings of the thieving world. They came upon a black tent with two men guarding the entrance. Vixen smiled at both before entering the tent with Daemon, Mack, Davey and Ian behind her.

A group of Scotsmen stood waiting and bowed when they entered. The group consisted of men from several clans, some of them life long rivals. There was Allan MacDonald, Bain Macbain, Douglas and Pat O�Donnell, Blake Cambell and Cobb Cameron.

Vixen sat down in a chair and noticed that Ian and Davey were staring at Douglas and Pat. Douglas and Pat smiled at Ian and Davey before sitting and Vixen realized that all four where part of the same clan.

�Mack O�Connell is now a shadow along with his family as well as Willy and Wally. Any objections?� Vixen asked.

A man named Connor answered. �Nay. He�s a loyal man, with simple beliefs and a kind heart. Willy and Wally are orphaned but both have nimble fingers and quick minds.�

She nodded. �How are things with the clans?�

�The MacDonald�s are still feuding with the Macbains.� Allan MacDonald said and turned to the man beside him. �We stole some sheep before the festival right?�

Bain nodded. �Aye. Put the Macbain in a bad mood but we�re planning revenge.�

�There is a problem though.� Blake said. The others nodded and Vixen noticed that some spat curses.

�Cullen MacGregor was murdered last week.� Cobb explained. �His laird killed him after Cullen tried to protect a woman MacGregor was beating.�

Shocked Vixen stood up. �He murdered one of ours? Did he know Cullen was under our protection? How many of us belong to that clan? How did you hear of this?�

Vixen started pacing while Cobb answered. �Aye he knew. We got the information from the woman�s mother. She said the MacGregor had Cullen tied down and was beating him. Cullen told him about the Shadow but the MacGregor just laughed. He beat him unconscious and left him in the dungeon to die. Cullen was our only shadow in the MacGregor clan.�

Vixen was furious, enraged and ready to extract revenge. Someone under her protection, her friend, had been murdered and she would not rest until justice was served. Everyone was quiet as they watched Vixen pace furiously in the tent as they waited for her decision.

Death was the punishment for killing one of the Shadows. Exceptions could be made for those who didn�t know but the MacGregor had known and did it anyways. She would hunt him down like a dirty dog and�wait. Wait. MacGregor was the one who had possession of the jewel castle.

�He will be executed� she stated firmly and all of the men nodded approvingly except Davey and Ian. �Laird O�Donnell will help me. How many do we have in O�Donnell�s clan?�

�Six men and that�s not including their families.� Pat answered.

�Good. I need someone to scout the MacGregors land. I also need inside help. Doug you will leave immediately after this. Find the woman Cullen was protecting and offer her our protection. I need information. Is the clan strong, is it weak. Who will be in charge when MacGregor is dead? Find us allies from inside. I give you the authority to offer temporary protection to those you think will help. Be very, very, wise.�

�Aye Vixen� Doug answered. �I will do everything required of me and I will be cautious of who I offer the Shadows protection to.�

Satisfied but far from calm, she nodded. They talked about Mack and the two boys again and who was responsible for the training of the boys. Vixen was very aware that Ian and Davey stood behind her and felt Ian�s gaze bore into her back. It was unnerving and exciting at the same time and she was unsure of how she felt about him. Finally the meeting ended and everyone got up to leave.

Ian stepped in front of the entrance to keep Doug and Pat from leaving. He scowled at them. �Six. You said there were six of you that switched your allegiance from me to her?� He sneered the last part but the two men just smiled.

�We didn�t switch allegiance. We are still loyal to you.� Doug happily stated.

Ian glowered at him. �Who are the other four?�

�Well there is Duff and his brother, Doug and I, John, and Amateur.� Pat said and completely ignored the look of rage his laird gave him as he rattled off the names.

�Amateur was allegiant to her first.� Doug added with a tentative smile. �So were we but we thought it best not to tell you that we had pledged our loyalty to someone else. You�re a very possessive man.�

Ian�s angry gaze swung to Vixen but she just looked at him coolly. She understood his anger but also realized that he did not understand the offering of the shadows protection. He didn�t understand what it was like to be a thief and having no sense of security. He had never felt the thrill and the bone deep terror of breaking the law on a regular basis.

�How did you do it?� Ian asked, his voice vibrating with anger. �How could you gain the allegiance of so many men? And not just regular men but strong, loyal men who would rather die than betray one of their own.�

�I offered them the assurance of security. Security that no one else could give them, a security that only one under the protection could understand.� Vixen stated calmly only because she knew it was true. She knew that nothing could break that feeling of safety and companionship they shared.

�More likely the security of a willing bed partner� Ian retorted and everyone in the room gasped except Daemon. Hurt and angered, Vixen lowered her eyes as she thought of a response. Considering her behavior when they first met, he had every right to insult her but still his words stung.

�These men already had that security, Laird.� She answered, determined not to let him see her reaction to his words.

Vixen saw the surprise in Ian�s eyes at her response. He had expected a different, more angered reaction but she wouldn�t allow that. Smiling politely, she walked past him pretending not to see the amused expressions on the other men�s faces.

She had not taken more than three steps away from the tent before she felt his fingers close about her wrist. Immediately her gut clenched and her hand began burning wherever her skin touched his. Trying to steady the sudden furious pounding of her heart she faced him.

Ian was looking at her wrist, softly brushing his finger across her pulse. Raising his head to look directly into her eyes, he pressed down and she knew he felt the rapid beat of her pulse. He knew how he affected her; that he caused delicious sensations to run through her body.

Davey and Daemon stepped out from the tent and Ian let go of her wrist. �Do have any other business that needs your attention?� he asked but the heat in his eyes was gone, replaced by a blank coldness that she usually only saw in Daemon�s eyes.

Vixen shook her head and smiled, his expression didn�t bother her. She saw it as it was; a mask to keep others out and his emotions in. �We were planning on finding Jamie and enjoying the festivities for awhile.�

�No� he commanded and she quirked an eyebrow. �You will remain with me for the day.� Remain with him. Why? It couldn�t be because he liked her, he could barely tolerate her. Frowning she looked at him and realized that he didn�t trust her.

Vixen nodded accepting his distrust. Ian looked at her skeptically as if he expected her to start arguing at any moment. Without saying anything he walked away with Davey by his side. Vixen looked at Daemon but his expression was blank. Shrugging she followed the two men for no other reason than she wanted to learn more about Ian.