"Aye, sir." She curtsied and hastened to Kristina's chamber.
"Bastard," Fraser hissed drily.
Colin snorted with laughter.
"That lass was trying to seduce me," Fraser said.
"I'm certain," he said doubtfully.
"I'll make a bargain with you. When she comes out, look the other way while the maid drags me to my chamber, and neither of us will watch you walk into Lady Kristina's chamber."
"I had no intention of going in there," Colin said, hating to lie, but he needed to protect Kristina's reputation.
"But you would like to. And now that I've mentioned it, you can think of naught else."
Colin lifted a brow, glaring at the younger man. He was not like Fraser, was he? Chasing the skirts of any lass who gave him a long glance? Nay, 'twas Kristina, only, who turned his head. He could not deny he was fascinated by her. And now that they'd shared the greatest of intimacies, he had every intention of keeping her in his life.
"As long as that maid kens well what she's getting herself into, and is in agreement with it, I'll say naught," Colin said.
"And I'll not mention I saw you carrying Lady Kristina." Fraser stuck his hand out for a shake, but Colin ignored it.
"I have carried her before," he said defensively.
"But not up here." Fraser raised a brow in challenge. "You're besotted with her. 'Tis no secret. Everyone kens of it."
"What?" How could everyone know that?
"Aye, the way you look at her as if she's the sweetest angel."
Colin rolled his eyes. He'd had no idea his face was so expressive. He would have to guard against that from now on.
The maid exited Kristina's room. "Her ladyship said she did not need my help." She curtsied and hastened up the stairs.
Colin frowned, while Fraser eagerly chased after the maid.
Surprised, Colin glanced around, seeing that the corridor was empty. Listening for a long moment, he heard no one about. He then crept to Kristina's door and knocked lightly.
"Who is it?" she asked.
"Me. Colin."
"Enter."
He eased open the door and stepped inside, finding a low hearth fire lighting the room to a dim glow.
"Why did you send the maid away?" he asked.
"I was afraid she might see… um, you know." Kristina pressed her lips closed tightly.
Damnation. He'd forgotten there would be blood. He was not accustomed to deflowering virgins.
"I'll help you."
"Are you certain? Surely 'tis unusual for a man to help a woman in this way."
"I don't mind. In fact, I want to assist you in any way I can. I hope you can trust me."
"Of course I do."
