Page 87 of Woods of the Raven

“I––”

“But I understand about the lack of electricity,” he replied with a smirk. “Which is why, since I knew I wanted to spend time with you here, I bought a solar-powered laptop charger and one for the phone.”

I was stunned. “You planned to stay.”

“Well, no. I planned to visit. I’ll need to get one for my shaver as well, but for now, however you’re keeping the scruff on your face tamed, you’ll have to do mine as well.”

“It’s called a straight razor,” I teased him.

“Fine. Just keep in mind I go to work during the week at six in the morning, so you might need to wake up early.”

It was a small price to pay to keep him sleeping in my bed.

“So?” he prompted.

“Oh yes. Shaving. I’m on it. I will be your personal barber, no problem.”

“Excellent.” He kissed me goodbye and left but was back moments later.

“Forget something?”

He cleared his throat and took out his phone. “Earlier, there was no condom, so I wanted to show you my last medical screening.”

“I trust you,” I said flatly. “I don’t need to see that. I know you’d never put me in danger, and as for me, my magic would let me know if I was unwell in any way.”

“Okay, then. Good. Just wanted to make sure that was understood.”

“That we’re free and clear to have sex again?” I goaded him.

“Yeah. That,” he said with a rakish grin that turned me inside out.

“I’ve got it bad for you, Chief MacBain.”

“That’s good, since I feel the same.” He darted over, laid a kiss on me that curled my toes, and was out the door before I could say another word.

Minutes later, the front door opened, and even expecting Lorne, I was not disappointed to see Amanda breezing into the cottage, putting several heavy bags down on the kitchen table.

“Good morning,” I greeted her.

“No,” she said quickly. “All I want to hear is why Chief MacBain and not Declan Grant.”

“Declan and I are going to be excellent friends. You’re right, he’s amazing. But one of these days, I’m going to marry Chief MacBain.”

“What?” She seemed horrified. “Nooo…” She drew out the no with a whimper at the end. “He’s no fun. He’s going to stifle you completely.”

“He’s actually a rock, and let’s face it, I need and want one of those in my life.”

She tipped her head back and forth, considering that. “It’s true; you’re more bird than solid, immovable rock.”

I had to smile over her phrasing.

“But really, darling, I just don’t want anyone to come between us.”

Which was why she’d decided on Declan. After meeting him, she knew she could roll right over him. She didn’t like people who could stand up to her.

“No one will ever come between us. I promise.”

She exhaled sharply. “Well, then fine, bring him to dinner. I’ll make the eggplant parmesan you love.”