Page 63 of A Gypsy in Scotland
Chapter 16
“I have arrived at a conclusion,” Honoria declared.
“More terrifying words have never been spoken.”
She slanted Lash an aggrieved look. Curled up in each other’s arms, her skirts spread out beneath them, they watched the clouds slowly shape across the sky through the tower window while his fingers stroked lazy circles over her breast.
“The conclusion being I must do what makes me happy.”
His smile was gentle. “And what makes you happy,monisha?”
“Not much,” she murmured. “Laughing often, pursuing my dreams, and sharing my life with someone who makes my heart beat faster—doing all that for as long as I live.”
“A noble path.”
“But not one without effort.”
“Life is rarely ever without effort.”
“Harder with nine brothers.”
“They wish to protect you.” His finger flicked over her rosy bud.
“The irony of your touch whilst saying such a thing is a breath of fresh air.”
That earned her another flick, harder this time.
Honoria sucked in a breath. “I suppose I ought to add to my earlier conclusion that I have found someone who makes my heart beat faster.”
His finger froze on her nipple.
Several heartbeats passed.
To her dismay, his hand disappeared, and he hoisted himself onto one elbow to stare down at her. “Who?”
“You do not know?” she teased.
“I’d rather you tell me.”
Courage, Honoria. You have that in spades. She dragged in a fortifying breath, and admitted on a small whisper, “You.”
He blinked down at her, and Honoria watched, dread pooling in her belly, as all trace of good-humor disappeared from his features.
“Honoria, we should talk. . .”
“About?” She opted for innocence.
“Your expectations.”
“I have no expectations.”
Liar. You have at least one. Perhaps two.
“Says the lady who lives in a castle.”
Honoria groaned. “Thatdoes not define me. Neither does a lazy title.”
“All women have expectations.”
