Page 29 of Married to a Highland Brute

“No, thank you,” she said simply. She wanted him to leave.

“Why do ye nae look at me?”

His question caught her off guard, and her gaze was drawn to him.

His deep grey eyes bore into hers with a fire-like intensity. Nora's gaze was drawn deeper into his. She felt herself collapsing into them and falling down.

For a brief moment, neither of them said anything, whenRayak reappeared.

“Yer chair, milady. Milaird,” he bowed.

Nora snapped back to reality and realized how improperly she had looked at him. It isn’t improper. He is your husband. Still, she couldn’t meet his eyes. Quickly, she turned to Rayak. “Thank you, Rayak. You did not have to worry so.”

She talked with Rayak for a little longer than she would have liked, hoping Jonan would leave. But when she turned around, hewas still there, his eyes even darker.

“You’re still here,” she said nervously.

“Aye, although I see ye forgot.”

Nora looked away from his hot and searing stare. She didn’t know what emotions his eyes held—if any.

“The bread bakes still, milady,” Velma said from behind her.

“Milady, the food smells wonderful!” Callan appeared.

Nora was grateful for his presence and comments. They erased the awkward silence.

“I presume that this is for a feast to celebrate your union?” Callan asked.

Nora wondered if he jested. She hadn’t been to any weddings, but she had heard gossip of many. The meals served were more extravagant than broth and bread.

“A feast?” Velma asked from the other side of the kitchen.

Nora would have found the entire situation very amusing if she had any interest in celebrating her wedding.

“Oh, that is not necessary,” she said quickly. The day she had been first promised to him had been awful. She did not want a reminder.

Avoided Jonan’s gaze as best as she could, she noted that Callan sensed no awkwardness between them, for he continued to speak.

“Besides, treats like this are rarely ever had. ‘Twould be a good thing for our people to eat together again.”

Nora regretted her initial refusal. Although her reasons were valid, the people were more important than her reservations. She decided to cook as much as they needed and brave a ceremony for their sake.

“The minister could bless—”

“Enough, Callan,” Jonan patted his friend’s shoulder. The warrior looked between them both before shrugging and walking away.

Once more, they were alone, and Nora sighed. Why did no one stay?

“Does the thought of celebrating our nuptials offend you so much?” Jonan’s eyes held an amused but dangerous glimmer.

Nora’s heart began to race. His gaze was too intrusive, and it unnerved her.

“I am not opposed to the thought. It sounds like a lovely idea, to unite your people. I can survive the rest.” She crossed her arms and raised her shoulders.

His brow arched at her words and Nora felt pleased. She was capable of unnerving him too.

“I forgot what it’s like to contend with a woman.” Jonan’s voice had taken a low and deep tone. He leaned into her very subtly, but it was enough to get her to startle.

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