Oh, if only such a thing could be true, but the risk was too great. "Nay, I don't wish you to put yourself in such extreme danger because of me. Blackburn is vile and evil. He kens naught of honor. He might have a mob of his soldiers attack you alone."

Neacal smirked. "Have you already forgotten what happened at the shieling and at the tavern? I bested several of his men."

"Aye, but what if they all come at you at once?" She could visualize the horrid scene.

"I am no fool, Anna. If I wanted to die I would be dead already. I've developed skills of battle and survival that most men do not even think of."

"I know you are a great warrior with amazing skills, but still… I worry."

"Well, I know not how to take away your worries, except by proving I'm right." After unbuckling his belt, he tossed his plaid on the chair. Keeping his long-tailed shirt on, he led her to the bed and lay down, leaving room for her in front. "Come sleep with me," he murmured, holding out his hand. In truth, he looked exhausted and she did want him to sleep.

After removing herarisaid, she crawled onto the bed and snuggled against him. He covered them with the woolen blanket and wrapped his arms around her. Pressing her nose to his chest, she inhaled his wondrous masculine scent mixed with lavender soap. In his arms, she felt safe and protected, for the first time in a very long time, but also cherished and excited. She loved how strong his arms felt around her.

Her arousal was at a slow simmer but she drifted toward sleep as she listened to his soft breaths.

A loud thump startled her fully awake. Something crashed just outside the door and a man yelled.