Read Nightbound for Free Online Page A

conducted, making me unproven in the field. My peers already consider my theories to be everything from unfounded to ludicrous.”
    Beau was surprised she could speak so calmly about it. “What would make them believe that?”
    “When the Order of the Knights Templar was disbanded by the pope, some were able to escape. According to my research, at least one of them fled Europe for the Spanish Main, and then sailed from there to Florida. I believe he came here with a group of Spanish priests and with them founded a mission to convert the Timucua natives.” She hesitated, tugging at the belt of her robe. “My colleagues think that is nonsensical, but what they flatly refuse to accept is my theory as to the Templars’ other motive for coming here.”
    “You have a second theory?”
    She nodded. “Before he left the mission, the Templarconcealed something very old and valuable there. I’ve never been able to precisely identify the artifact he left behind, but I have a very good idea of what it is. I’ve also published several articles in trade magazines about it, which is why my colleagues think I’m crazy.”
    Beau wondered what she would say if she knew a former Templar was standing right in front of her. “Your colleagues sound small-minded.”
    “They’re limited by ego and fear. I’m not, although I do understand the risk I’m taking. Failure on my part will put an end to my career, and the connection to me has the potential to damage the foundation’s reputation.” Alys watched his face. “So, Mr. York. If you’re not here to monitor me, then why would they give someone with no archaeological experience this assignment?”
    He grinned. “Oh, to manage things.”
    “And that.” She shook a finger at his face. “That is the other problem I have with you. You’re far too attractive. Half of my interns are young, impressionable girls. I don’t want them distracted from their work, especially if you decide to tackle one of them.”
    So she thinks me handsome.
Beau had never been especially vain, but her compliment pleased him. “You seem to think I can do nothing but roll about on the floor with women.”
    She gave him a tight smile. “I can only go by experience.”
    “Well, Doctor, I don’t. And if your young interns are hoping to impress me, perhaps they’ll work harder.” Someone knocked on the door behind him, and he glanced through the peephole. “There’s an Asian lad standing in the hall. He’s carrying a very large case.”
    “One of my interns. I have some equipment to check.” She offered him her hand and, when he took it, gave him a brisk handshake. “Thank you for stopping in to meet me, Mr. York, but I really can’t use you on the project. Please give my regrets and my regards to Mr. Tremayne.”

Chapter 3
     
    A lthough Jayr usually held meetings with the mortal staff in the expansive area of the reception hall, she preferred to conduct personal interviews in the old armory that Byrne had converted into a study for her.
    “I’ve yet to fathom why you need to acquire a new
tresora
at all,” Byrne grumbled as he poured a glass of bloodwine for Jayr. “We’ve dozens of them about the place. Pick one from our own, and train them to suit you, I say.”
    “Most of our
tresori
are performers, laborers, or office workers,” she reminded him as she accepted the glass. “None of them have any experience with overseeing an entire household or serving the suzerainty. Also, most of them are female.”
    “Aye, for we’ve a progressive household, where women are respected and valued.” He lifted his glass to toast her. “As well you know, my lady.”
    “As I do, my lord.” She inclined her head. “I might point out that you’ve also slept with most of them.”
    He nearly choked. “That was before you confessedyour love for me. Since I’ve had you, I’ve naught touched another.” He gave her a suspicious look. “Never tell me you are jealous of the house