“I am.” Another wave of weariness swept her, and Elspet glanced about the cave before meeting his gaze. “Do you always care for women you rescue with suchthoroughness?”
A tight smile touched his mouth. “Nay. Normally I learn little more than their names.”
“Names?” she said, irritated by his admission. Nor did his interest in women matter to her. She had her own life…or had. She quelled the rush of heartache. It had been a strife-filled day. She didn’t need to add to it with ridiculous notions. Still, she gave into curiosity. “Have there been many?”
He shrugged. “The duties of a knightare numerous.”
“Far from an answer.” Neither did she miss how he evaded most questions when it came to details of his life. Though a mystery, nor could she forget how he’d held her when she’d broken down.
Another blast of wind howled outside, a sad, lonely sound.
She inhaled, the tang of smoke entwined with the chill. Though her throat felt sore from crying earlier, she was far from ready to end the conversation. “Why are you only now returning to reclaim your birthright?”
His face grew taut, but she caught the shadow of grief in his eyes.
“’Tis a long story,” he said, his voice terse.
Sparks burst from the fire, tumbled to the ground, then grew black. She arched a brow. “’Twould seemwe have time.”
He pushed to his feet. “You need to rest; dawn will soon be upon us. Travel will be difficult tomorrow, more so with Gaufrid’s men searching for me.”
Despite her invitation, she was almost glad he’d postponed the conversation. Postponed, she reaffirmed to herself, because she wanted answers. Her lids half-closed, she struggledto keep awake.
“Go to sleep.”
“What of you?”
“I will keep watch.”
Unease rippled through her as she glanced toward the cave entry. “You believe the earl’smen are near?”
“I canna be sure, but I willna take any chances.”
Warmth from the flames flickered over her, and guilt swept her that he’d sacrifice his comfort to protect her. “There is only one blanket.”
“With the fire and your cape, you should be warm enough.”
She gave a frustrated sigh. “I wasna concerned for myself but you. ’Twill be cold leaning against the stone.”
He shrugged. “I have endured far worse.”
“Mayhap, but for now there is nay need.”
“I will be fine.” Cailin strode to the wall near the entry, paces from the fire, positioning himself where he had a clear view outside.
She scoffed. And he thought she was stubborn? Lifting the blanket, Elspet forced aside exhaustion and pain and, witheffort, stood.
As she limped over, Cailin scowled.
“Lean forward,” she said.
“Why?”
The sharpness of his tone far from intimidated her. However terse, she was coming to understand this formidable knight. She held out a portion of the blanket. “’Tis said that shared body warmth is essential when in the cold.”
Hisbrows furrowed.
“You might as well accept it.” She had to smile, which surprised herself, given the tumultuous times. “I willna quit bothering youuntil you do.”
