Page 35 of An Enchanted Spring

Colin raised his eyebrows. “Nice. How much did that run you?”

“Wouldn’t you like to know. That’s not the important part.” He switched to Gaelic, in case Emma came downstairs, and quickly relayed her situation through to the threats in the coffee shop that morning.

Colin let out a whistle. “She’s in some serious trouble.”

“And you stepped in, the white knight, waving your sword,” Reilly stated.

“Sounds slightly dirty when you say it that way,” Colin snickered.

“By the saints, you arses, the lass needs my help!” Aidan nearly shouted, his knuckles white.

Colin sat up, dropping his feet, and even Reilly sat straighter.

“Holy hell,” Colin breathed. He looked at Reilly in shock. “He’s claimed her.”

“I’ve done nothing of the sort,” Aidan sputtered.

“My laird,” Cian said, descending the stairs. “With all due respect, ye’ve given the lass food, shelter, and clothing. Allshe owns now is MacWilliam colors, and she’s under your protection. Methinks it fair to say—”

“Don’t,” Aidan growled.

“Sorry, MacWilliam,” Reilly guffawed, “but it looks like you found your mate.”

Aidan stoppedshort of tackling Reilly as Emma came down the stairs.

She paused at the door. “About before—”

“No worries, lass,” Reilly said.

“Don’t worry about it,” Colin added.

Aidan just watched her, his fingers gently pulling his lips.

“Okay, well, thanks,” she said, clearly at a loss.

“Do you play cards?” Colin asked suddenly.

She cocked her head. “Depends on what you’re playing for.”

“Money and bragging rights,” Colin answered.

She looked thoughtful.

“They’ll wipe the floor with you,” Aidan warned.

She raised her eyebrows at him. “You playing?”

“You bet.”

“Deal me in,” she decided firmly.

“Have a seat, Emma Perkins,” Reilly laughed. “I think I like you.”

As she settled next to Reilly, Aidan began to worry that his teeth would grind themselves into powder before the night was through.

Chapter 7

The next day, a loud crash greeted Emma at the bottom of the stairs. She paused and peeked around the corner.

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