Page 93 of The Scottish Duke
“I did once,” he said. “She found someone new.”
“Did you see her when you were gone?”
“No, I didn’t see her. Or any other woman, for that matter. Jason and I managed to concentrate on our work without any female interference.”
“Even after all that time?”
Did she really believe that he would be interested in anyone after her?
“Even after all that time.”
She shook her head as if reprimanding him.
“I was taking fingerprints,” he said, feeling the need to explain. “I needed the time.”
“No, you didn’t.”
“Are you trying to dictate my work, Lorna?”
“No, I’m trying to get you to be honest. You regret our marriage, the necessity of our marriage. You might even regret Robbie for all I know. You left to go and nurse your wounds. Or escape me.”
He was embarrassed, feeling vulnerable, confused about his emotions, and wanting to kiss her again. The perfect time for an argument.
“I had work to do,” he said.
She only sent him a look.
He decided that he wasn’t going to win that argument so he changed the subject.
“I’m coming back here with my fingerprint kit,” he said, scanning the room.
Her frown was question enough.
“There might be some fingerprints on the glass.”
“Do you think you can find out who did this?”
“There’s a good chance,” he said.
“I’d like to come with you,” she said, “but I have to feed Robbie first.”
“Then we’ll attend to our son before coming back here.”
He held her hand as they left the cottage. He wanted the connection with her. He wanted to kiss her again, but for now he’d settle for her hand in his.
The walk back to Blackhall was made in silence. He doubted they’d be able to hear each other over the wind anyway, even if he could find something to say.
He was beset by confusion, by the realization that he’d erred, and badly. He shouldn’t have remained away.
Once back at the castle, he followed Lorna up to the ducal suite.
“Has he been fussy?” she asked.
Matthews appeared in the doorway to the sitting room. The valet stared at Lorna, his face a mask of stiff disapproval. He only altered his expression when he realized Alex was watching him. Bowing slightly, he disappeared.
“Only in the last few minutes,” Nan said with a smile. “Almost as if he knew you were coming.”
“Go and have your tea.”
