Highland Heather - Highland Heather Part 41
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Highland Heather Part 41

"It is far more tempting to face an English sword than marriage to an English dog."

He turned on her, catching her by the upper arm and dragging her against his chest. He forced her back against the cold stone of the deserted hallway. His breath was hot against her cheek.

"You will hold your tongue, woman. I am sick to death of the sound of your voice."

His sudden temper caught them both by surprise. This irritating female had a way of bringing out the worst in him.

Brenna tossed her head, unwilling to let him see any show of weakness.

"And I am sick to death of the sight of you, my Lord Grey." Her eyes flashed.

"The obvious solution to both our problems is to release me and send me back to my people."

"I see there is only one way to still your voice."

Without warning he lowered his head and kissed her, hard and quick.

White-hot liquid poured through him. And though it burned him, he could not step back. He realized he hadn't thought it through, or he'd have never touched her. But now it was too late for that.

Brenna went very still, absorbing the shock that collided low and deep in the pit of her stomach.

The hands at her shoulders softened their grip, until his thumbs made lazy circles across her flesh. The kiss, too, gentled until it was the softest touch of mouth to mouth.

Even in this dim hallway, or in the inky blackness of midnight, she would know his lips, his touch, his taste. From that first time he had touched her, they had become imprinted firmly on her mind. With her eyes closed she could trace the outline of his lips, the shape of his fierce brow, the texture of his skin.

There was such strength in the hands that moved along her shoulders.

They could snap her bones like the wings of a hummingbird. And yet they held her as gently as if she were a fragile flower.

Morgan realized it would be so easy to forget how small and delicate she was when her mouth was so eager and agile. Despite her innocence he could sense the simmering passion in her. And though the first ripples of desire stirred, he knew that she exerted great effort to keep them under control.

What would it be like to lie with her and coax that desire from her until it was stoked into full-blown passion? The urge rose in him. How he longed to watch that cool control slip until she moaned and writhed beneath him in helpless surrender.

He wanted her. Dear God. Each time he touched her he wanted her. All the denials in the world would not alter that simple fact. He wanted her as he had never wanted another woman.

He dropped his hand and took a step back.

Brenna took in a long, deep breath. Had he felt it? When they kissed, did he experience all these wild, tumultuous feelings that were so new and frightening to her? Or was she the only one who was so confused, so terrified by all that was happening between them?

She could read nothing in his dark, narrowed gaze.

At the strange sound of Richard's wheeled chair being rolled along the wooden floor, they both looked up.

"I am informed that your mount is ready," Richard said.

"Will you return before dark?"

"Aye. In time to sup with you. Mayhaps you would see to the woman."

'"Twould be my pleasure."

Morgan turned to Brenna.

"The guards have their orders. See that you do not push the limits of my brother's patience. Or you will answer to me."

As he strode away, Brenna stood beside Richard's chair and felt her heartbeat slowly begin to return to its natural rhythm. She was grateful for the dim candlelight in the hallway. In sunlight, she feared, her conflicting emotions would be there in her eyes for him to read.

Chapter Thirteen

t if I must leave Richmond soon, Morgan, or go mad. The palace smells like a barnyard. "

"It is not safe for you to travel. Majesty. There have been too many accidents."

"I will have you by my side." The queen gave Morgan her most persuasive smile.

"What can go wrong when you are with me?"

"I cannot be two places at once. You want me to guard the Scotswoman, and you want me to keep you safe."

Elizabeth's temper flashed.

"I wish to relieve this boredom. I must get away from Richmond."

He strode to the balcony and stared at the gentle, rolling countryside.

Who could believe that an evil plot could be brewing in this tranquil setting?

He turned as a sudden thought struck.

"Would you be willing to spend some time at Greystone Abbey now?"

The queen clapped her hands and got to her feet.

"Oh, yes, Morgan.

I've been hoping you would invite me. We could hunt. And have a splendid tea in your gardens. And a great feast. "

He held up his hand to stop her.

"I had thought you would come alone."

"But I must have my servants. And a cook. You know I

cannot abide Mistress Leems's cooking. And Madeline and Charles.

And. "

She saw the look on his face and hesitated.

"I will bring only those who are absolutely necessary to my comfort and happiness, Morgan. I promise you."