Their eyes became owl-sized as they looked at each other and then, of one accord, they turned and ran back up the hill toward the village.
Mari made an attempt at straightening her skirt, not sure where to look. How embarrassing. Her face was probably beet red.
As if he understood, Jamie placed a finger under her chin and forced her to look at him. “’Tis most enjoyable kissing ye.” He sighed. “We had best go, though, since I am sure the wee hellions will be telling all sorts of tales to my sisters.”
Mari did not think her face could get any hotter, but Jamie just grinned, his dimple showing. “’Tis nae to be ashamed of, lass,” he said and then leaned forward to place a gentle kiss on her forehead before he stood and held out his hand. “Then again, we dinnae want Fiona to hear too grand a story either.”
To her relief, the twins were subdued by the time she and Jamie reached the village. Shauna gave the girls a warning look, making both of them squirm. Although Fiona’s eyes were bright with questions, she glanced at Shauna and kept silent.
Luckily, the presence of the driver prevented any personal comments on the ride back to the castle, which was fine with Mari. Her own emotions were in a tangle over what had taken place.
But those emotions were quickly thrust aside as the carriage rattled through the gates and Darcy came running out, holding her skirts high as she pelted toward them.
“Thank the Lord ye are home,” she said.
“What is it? What is wrong?” Mari asked as Jamie leapt out of the carriage and helped her down. “Is Jillian worse?”
The maid nodded tearfully, trying to catch her breath. “She began bleeding something fierce—”
Mari did not wait for Darcy to finish as she hiked her own skirts and raced toward the massive front door, Jamie close on her heels.
