Well, he couldn't guarantee the safety of all of them, but he could focus on increasing hers.
Since the first opening was only about four feet tall, they were forced to duck down to enter the cave's second chamber. Only the barest hint of light seeped in from the two entryways on either side of the cavern. He felt along the floor and found a smooth, dry spot near the cave wall, then spread out his plaid.
"Sit here." He led her forward and helped her sit. Though he couldn't see her in the darkness, he felt that her body was tense and her breathing shallow and fast. How could he get her to relax? "Neacal and I used to explore these caves when we were lads. We climbed the cliffs and did all sorts of insane things." He smiled at the memory.
"He must be a wonderful friend to you."
"Aye. Like a brother." Colin knelt before her. "Lie down. We'll sleep here."
"But… I don't know if I can sleep."
"You can rest, at least. You must be exhausted."
"'Tis true."
"Just a wee nap, then," he suggested. "I'll protect you with my life."
"I don't want you to risk your life for me anymore." Her vehement tone surprised him.
"'Tis worth it."
Kristina felt humbled and honored that Colin would take such chances because of her. What had she done to deserve being treated so kindly? Maybe it wasn't her at all. 'Twas he who was the special one.
Though she didn't truly wish to lie down, she did because he wanted her to. She was far too worried to sleep. What if Red Holme and more of Blackburn's men invaded this cave and killed them all? 'Twould be her fault. She never, ever wanted to be the cause of someone else's death. Unless it was Holme or Blackburn. She would kill them if she had to, in self-defense, or to protect Anna or Colin. Blackburn and his men had already murdered too many innocent people.
Colin lay down beside her, gently drew her close into his arms and pulled the other half of his wool plaid over them both.
"Put your hands here between us so they'll get warm." He drew one of her hands against his chest, and she moved the other one.
His deep voice and delicious heat seeped into her, so soothing yet so thrilling. Still, she felt the tension in his hard body and rigid position. Based on his breathing, it seemed his head was cocked backward slightly, as if he was listening for intruders.
He moved his head a bit closer to hers. "Are you warm enough?"
"Aye."
"Relax and get some sleep, then."
"Mayhap you should, too."
"I'll try. How long has it been since you had a good night's sleep?"
"I've only slept a few hours each night since I was captured, especially after Red Holme attacked me. I was afraid to close my eyes after that. But I know I must have slept, because I would jolt awake during nightmares at times."
"The bastard," Colin growled. "Pray pardon."
"I have called him many names myself."
"To his face?" Colin sounded surprised.
"Of course."
He snorted. "I admire your bravery."
Colin kissed the top of her head, surprising her and making her feel warm and tingly all over. Of its own will, her hand tightened in the material of his shirt. She wanted to pull him closer still. Having a man hold her was a startling new experience for her. She'd never imagined she would enjoy such a thing. Generally, she wanted men to stay a great distance away from her. But Colin was so different. Almost instantly, she'd felt very comfortable with him. His voice had calmed her and inspired trust.
She snuggled closer and fantasized they were lying in a huge, firm bed in his home, no doubt a fine castle. She sighed at how wonderful that would be.
She felt him stiffen of a sudden. "What's wrong?" she asked.
