Threads

Chapter Twelve- Part 2

“You’re mocking me.”

            “I’m not. I only wish your forgiveness.”

            “You won’t find it.”

            He stood up, releasing her hand. “Cold hearted Sorceress.”

            “Witch,” Alice corrected him firmly.

            “Witch?” Altair frowned again and studied her face. “I think not. Maybe you’re on the edge between Witch and Sorceress, but not less than that.”

            “What would you know about it?”

            “I’ve met many different people.”

            “And stole from them all, I’m sure.”

            “Regrettably, that was my occupation until now.”

            “And now you are an honest working man I suppose?” Alice said critically.

            Altair shrugged. “Not exactly, but after a near death experience like the other day, it sort of puts things into perspective.”

            “I’m sure.”

            Altair looked around at the shop, as if losing interest in the conversation. “Mind if I take a look around your shop?”

            “Go ahead,” Alice said shortly, “But if you’re thinking about stealing anything, read the sign.”

            Altair had the nerve to give her an insulted look. “I would never dare steal from you.”

            Alice muttered and went back to the till to stand next to Gabriel, who was still glowering at the man as he walked around looking at the merchandise.

            “Why don’t you kick him out?” Gabriel asked crossly.

            Alice shrugged. “I think he knows not to try anything.”

            “He’s no good,” Gabriel growled. “You have to know why he’s shown up again.”

            Alice eyed him sharply. “What?”

            “He’s attracted to you,” Gabriel hissed under his breath. “How can you not see that?  You should see how he was looking at you.”

            Alice glared at him. “I’m not interested in how you think he was looking at me.”

            Gabriel crossed his arms and frowned. “Sorry, I just don’t trust him. He’s shifty.”

            “Is it the stubble?” said a voice near Gabriel’s left ear.

            Gabriel jumped and scowled at Altair, who had crept around the shelf nearest to the desk. The man combed his hand through his shaggy hair, pretending to preen.

“Perhaps I need a haircut.” He gave Gabriel a mocking smile. “I’m not clean cut like you, boy.”

            Gabriel’s glower became more storm-like but he said nothing. 

            “I’d like to buy this.”

            Alice took the object from Altair’s hand, a gold ring that vibrated when danger was near. “You were planning on getting into more dangerous situations?” Alice frowned at him.