Smiling, Colin shook his head. "Och! Love has turned you into a bard."
Neacal felt his lips quirk with amusement.
"And you're even smiling? Saints! The lass is a miracle worker."
She was, indeed, and he was prepared to fight for her.
***
Later that night, Neacal entered his chamber to find Anna sleeping in the dim glow of the low-burning fire. He removed his clothes and crawled into bed with her. 'Twas an indulgence he could not resist. He snuggled close to her, absorbing her sleepy warmth.
She stirred. "Neacal?"
He snorted. "Who else?"
"I just wanted to be sure," she said, the smile in her voice evident. "Is everything all right?"
"Aye. The men are prepared for a surprise attack. All guards are on duty. I should be out there with them but I couldn't stop thinking about you." Although she wore a thin smock, he could easily feel her luscious curves through the material. "You feel so good."
Reaching back, she placed her hand on his thigh. "Are you naked?"
"Of course."
Wriggling, she turned to face him and pressed her lips against his bare chest. "Mmm. Nice."
Arousal bolted through him. "Why aren't you naked?"
"I could be in a matter of seconds if you help me."
He quickly tugged her smock upward and helped her slip it from her arms and head, then flung it aside.
"Ahh." He pulled her closer and absorbed the decadent feel of her heated breasts pressing against his chest. 'Twas one of the best feelings in the world. He slid his hand down over the small of her back to the sweet curve of her hips. So perfect.
The punch of arousal made him lightheaded. He trailed his hand down her thigh and lifted it over his.
Her lips moved over his chest, placing little kisses. She flicked her tongue against his nipple. He growled, drawing her closer and slipping his fingers upward between her thighs. She arched her back and drew her knee higher on his hip, giving him access to her heated center.
"Saints," he hissed. "You're so luscious. So wet."
"'Tis your own fault."
He grinned. "I love taking the blame for that."
Before he knew what she was about, she wrapped her hand around his shaft and squeezed. At the renewed streak of arousal, he growled and ground his teeth.
"I need you, Neacal."
"Not as much as I need you, my sweet Anna."
He moved between her thighs and stroked himself through her heat.
"Aye." She dug her fingers into his arse, urging him on. "Please."
He slipped inside, the sublime feel of her spurring him to slide to the hilt. Absorbing the glorious feeling, he paused, pressing his forehead against hers. After the perfect moment, she flicked her tongue against his lips. Instinct taking over, he withdrew and thrust again.
She gasped loudly, then whispered, "So good, Neacal. More."
"With pleasure." Aye, he wished to give all she wanted. His only goal in life now was to protect her, please her, and make her happy.
