Page 40 of Killian

“Not at all. Follow me.”

As Celine followed Aileen through the house, she knew it had to have been a great place to grow up.

“This is my library.” Aileen smiled as they stepped into a room. “If I live to be one hundred years old, I will still never read enough books.”

“It’s beautiful.” Celine looked around the room.

The library was a room of comfort. Three of the four walls were adorned with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, overflowing with volumes of all shapes and sizes. Celine ran her fingers along the spines, feeling the textured ridges and worn edges of the books as she walked further into the room. She would spend hours lost in this sea of words, each one holding a world of its own, if she had a room like this.

The fireplace stood at the back wall, flanked by two shelves filled with trinkets, photos, and knickknacks. Celine could just picture the flickering flames in the fireplace, dancing and casting a warm glow around the room, casting shadows on the shelves and creating a sense of enchantment.

A plush sofa faced the hearth, and two wingback chairs sat in front of the large window that let natural light flood in.

“I sit here for hours on that sofa, curled up with a book and a cup of tea. This is my sanctuary, my haven, and I couldn’t imagine a more perfect place to be.”

“It’s amazing. I’d love a room like this.”

“Do you like to read?”

“I do. I’m a big fan of contemporary romance.” Celine smiled.

“Any particular type? I like contemporary and historical westerns.”

“I like those too. I rarely read anything else. I know there are a lot of people who will read any romance.”

“Once in a while, I’ll try something different, but I mostly stick to my westerns.”

“You have quite a collection.”

“I do. When Connor was working and had to make trips out of town, he’d always bring a book home for me. I don’t know how he never got me the same book.”

“Killian did mention that Mr. Doyle was a livestock agent.”

“Yes, he retired and works around the ranch now. I know he misses it, but he lives through his sons who followed in his footsteps.”

“Mom?”

“In the library, Kian.” Aileen looked at Celine. “Have you met Kian?”

“No, I haven’t had the pleasure yet.”

Celine watched a tall man enter the room. He smiled as he hugged his mother, then he looked at her. He was very handsome.

“Hi, I’m Kian. You must be Celine.”

“I am. It’s nice to meet you. Killian was right.”

Kian raised an eyebrow. “About what?”

“He said I’d be able to tell you were brothers, but not twins.”

Kian laughed and Celine knew she liked him.

“I’m the better-looking brother.”

Celine laughed. “You just keep telling yourself that.”

“Oh, she put you in your place, Kian. I knew I liked her.”

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