A Highland Heist A Contemporary Highland Romance Book Three Read Online Free Page A

that she was still as captivated by the place as she was the first time around. The tall ceilings, the aged dark wood paneling, the ancient tapestries, the period paintings-and a far too inadequate security system. She’d have to mention it to them in the near future.
    She quickly scanned the room of people, realizing she knew almost everyone there. Angus and Rowan, whom she’d met when she rented the cottage from them, and there was Andrew and his boss, Phillip, along with a few more of their employees, Johnny and Clyde. There was an older gentleman, whom she believed to be Iain’s father, and Cat’s assistant, Tansy. Conall had yet to show up or was wandering about elsewhere in the home. Not that Maggie was disappointed-not yet, at least.
    Andrew spotted her, but she avoided his gaze and wandered towards the bar, happy to make small talk with her landlords. In response to Angus’s question, she said, “A glass of red would be lovely. Thanks.”
    “How’s the cottage working out?” Rowan cringed with a smile. “I know it’s pretty basic-and it can get damn cold and drafty.”
    “Actually, it’s perfect. It’s big enough, everything works, and the views are just gorgeous. The area’s perfect for a morning run.” Though she might sleep in tomorrow morning.
    Angus’s brow furrowed. “I hope ye’ll be careful, lass. It gets foggy in the morning and ye don’t want to stumble off the cliff.”
    She gave him a smile. “That’s what Conall said-though with fewer words.”
    Rowan laughed. “Sounds about right. Isn’t he also working on the museum?”
    “He is. In fact, we’ll be working together so my systems work seamlessly with his. I’m surprised he’s not here already.” She glanced over her shoulder, but he still wasn’t around-and she’d now inadvertently caught Andrew’s attention. Turning back to her discussion, she hoped she could avoid him just a little longer.
    Angus scoffed. “I’m not in the least bit surprised. Probably waiting until the last moment to show. Hell, I’m shocked he even agreed to come. He’s yer neighbor, ye know.”
    Humor sparked in Angus’s eyes, making Maggie think he was far too mischievous a man. He threw Rowan a glance that spoke volumes-one of those looks between lovers when they need no words. She missed that silent communication. The way you could have an entire conversation with a simple look. And Angus was clearly head over heels in love with the beautiful redhead.
    It made her think of her own love life-or lack thereof. It was hard when she was constantly on the road. Eventually she’d like to give a serious relationship another try, though she’d learned from her past mistakes. It was one thing to have a bit of casual fun, but if she were going to fall in love and give her heart to another, she could only do that utterly and completely-and they better be willing to do the same. She refused to settle for someone who couldn’t reciprocate at the same level.
    Thinking of Angus’s words and her morning run, she had to smile. “I actually paid him a visit this morning to drop off some plans and see if he wanted to go for a run, but I’m afraid I probably woke him up. He’s got a great dog, though. Ended up taking her with me.”
    A smile danced on Rowan’s lips, her eyes sparkling. “Be forewarned-Piper’s a bit of an escape artist. Although she’s gotten into the habit of beelining it to the cottage when she does get loose.”
    Angus shook his head, his lips pursed, though there was still humor in his eyes. “That’s because ye’d give her treats when she showed up at yer door. It’s no wonder she tries to escape every chance she gets. Rewarding bad behavior is a very bad habit, love.”
    Rowan laughed. “Don’t go blaming me. I’m not the one letting her escape. And at least this way, Conall knows where to find her.”
    Angus tilted his head. “Speak of the devil.”
    Conall approached while scanning the room, his brow furrowed. Maggie had