The Alchemy of Desire Read Free Page B

his arms and studied her. “What makes you think you’re qualified to act as our guide?”
    She laughed and leaned back in her chair with one arm draped over the back. “As you were so kind to point out, I’m half Lakota. I grew up in those hills and know them like the back of my hand. I know where to find food and water along the way, and if we run into some of my people, I can help you avoid what could turn into a nasty confrontation.”
    “And the fact that you’re a woman?” Cager’s voice dripped in disdain.
    “Lewis and Clark had no problems using Sacajawea as a guide.” She smirked. “Don’t tell me it’s a bruise to your pride to have a woman leading you?”
    “No, it’s not that, it’s just…” Diah’s voice trailed off as he struggled to find the right words. He didn’t want to insult her by explaining his concerns over her being a member of the weaker sex, not to mention everything he’d heard about her people being little more than savages. But then, everything about her differed from most women he knew. She was blunt and direct, meeting their eyes instead of demurely glancing down. And, oddly enough, she was staring more at him than Cager. Usually women couldn’t keep their eyes off his brother.
    Cager cleared his throat. “I think what my brother is trying to say is what would your husband or father think about you going out into the wilderness alone with us?”
    She stiffened. “I don’t have a husband, and my father is no longer alive. If you’re worried about those trivial details, then perhaps you’re not as eager to go hunting as I was led to believe.”
    “No, I’m just trying to make sure I don’t have to worry about any trouble from you while we’re out there.”
    Oni threw back her head and laughed. “If you’re implying I’d try to seduce you, you’re dead wrong. And if either of you try anything on me, I can defend myself.” Her hand brushed the hilt of a small dagger that hung from her belt. “I’m a professional guide, Mr.…?”
    “Reynolds,” Diah replied. “Jebediah Reynolds, and this is my brother, Micajah.”
    “Cager.”
    She nodded, her eyes lingering on Diah. “So, do you have any more questions?”
    “I just want to make sure I find the perfect buffalo.” Cager flashed his most charming grin at her. “I’m rather particular about what I’m hunting for.”
    A smile played on her full lips, and she leaned forward so her breasts hovered over the edge of the table. “I know what you want. The White Buffalo.”
    Diah’s eyes widened, earning a disapproving glance from his brother. How did she know? What bothered him more was that she’d lead them to something considered scared to her people. It was like a Christian trying to sell the Crown of Thorns to the highest bidder.
    “What’s the White Buffalo?” Cager asked, wearing his best poker face.
    “Don’t play innocent with me, Mr. Reynolds. I’m well aware of the moon cycles and the ancient legends. There’s only one reason why someone like you would be so determined to go buffalo hunting this late in the year.”
    Diah hid his amusement behind his mug. It was refreshing to have a woman who saw straight through Cager’s deceptions instead of giggling like a half-witted child. He was beginning to like Oni.
    His brother scowled. “Fine. Yes, I want to find it. Do you know where it is?”
    “I have a general idea. But it’s going to cost you.”
    Cager leaned forward, his jaw tight. “How much?”
    “Eight hundred dollars.”
    Diah plunked his mug down on the table. “That’s outrageous.”
    Cager shifted in his chair. “I think we’ll take our chances without a guide if a half-breed woman like you is all this town can muster up.”
    Diah almost swore he heard her teeth grinding.
    She stood, and this time neither of them stopped her. “Good luck, then, gentleman. You’re going to need it. Dakota winters have been known to cause men like you to lose fingers and toes.”
    As soon as