Page 52 of Kilty By Association
“A mummer,” Craig repeated doubtfully.
Roger clucked his tongue and straightened, holding an armful of scrolls. “I skim some profits from Dungotit here and there to send to them—the Earl is one of their best patrons.” He nodded regally to Robbie, who was looking bemused. “Simon is doing what he loves.”
“Juggling,” repeated Craig doubtfully.
Apparently, Elspeth was the only one to see the humor in the situation. Fighting a smile, she took a deep breath. “Well, mayhap we could invite the troupe to winter at Dungotit one year and amuse us through the darker months.”
Roger beamed. “That would be nice. If ye’ll excuse me, I’ll write to him.”
He bustled off, and the rest of them watched bemusedly.
“So…should someone do something about Aunt Agnes?” Robbie asked.
Elspeth’s hand found his shoulder again, although her head was tipped back to look at Craig. “I suppose so.”
“No’ now.” His tone was harsh, but his touch gentle as he cupped the back of her head. “Och, Elspeth, ye need to be in bed.”
Feeling almost giddy, she winked. “Only if ye come with me.”
There was a noise from Brigit which could have been a muffled laugh, but Craig’s expression turned torturous.
“Elspeth…”
And she knew what he was going to say.
Disappointment spiked through her, and she cursed herself for opening that opportunity. “Nay,” she ground out, shaking her head. “Dinnae say it, I understand.”
“Understand what?” he asked.
She forced her legs to hold her weight and pushed out of his arms, ignoring how much that hurt. Robbie moved beside her, trying to help support her, bless him.
“I understand,” she repeated. “We were just a mission to ye. I’m sorry I forced my company on ye, but I hope ye’ll forgive me for wanting the memory of a little pleasure to hold me through the coming years.”
At her side, Robbie muttered, “Eeeew, Mother.”
Ignoring him and Craig’s incredulous expression, she forced her chin upright and continued. “Ye were sent here by the King, but now that yer mission is complete, ye are to return to Scone, aye? Go then, with my apologies.”
“Apologies?” Craig rasped, and she realized his expression had turned disbelieving. “Ye think yeforcedyer company on me? Ye think ye werejusta mission to me?”
She swallowed, not allowing her eyes to tear. “What else would we be? That is why ye’ve been avoiding me since we returned to Dungotit, aye?”
“Elspeth…” He shook his head, dragging his hand through his hair, then turned back to her, those hazel eyes shining brightly. “Ye wereneverjust a mission to me. Since that kiss in Scone, ye’ve held my heart. I’ve no’ been avoiding ye this last sennight—I was doing what I thoughtyewanted, now ye were home and had to be formal again.”
Ye’ve held my heart.
“I…Dungotit…” She couldn’t seem to form words.Ye’ve heldmy heart heart heart heartwas pounding through her mind. “I’m no’ formal…”
“Nay, of course no’.” His grin was a little lopsided. “’Tis one of the reasons I love ye.”
“Ye…love me?” she repeated weakly, swaying slightly.
“Mother, do I have to hear this?” Robbie groaned, but she was afraid if her son left, she’d fall over.
Craig stepped closer but didn’t touch her. “How can ye doubt it, Elspeth?” he whispered. “I love yer bravery and daring and humor. I love how ye’re true to yerself, even when ‘twould be easier to be like everyone else.”
As if that little speech hadn’t left her reeling, he turned to Robbie. “Andye, laddie. I’ve gone and fallen in love with ye and yer sisters, as well. I love Mary’s wee babbles and trust. I love Katharine’s insistence at doing things her own way—”
Despite still staring, flabbergasted at Craig, Elspethheardher son roll his eyes.
