Page 68 of My Notorious Highlander

She stepped away from the corner. "Were you visiting Aiden?"

"Aye."

"How is he now? I took him food earlier but he refused to eat it."

"He seems near devastated. Nothing like his normally merry self."

Her brows drew together. "Aye. I hope he will get some sleep, at least."

Torrin nodded, studying her eyes, darker in the dimness. "I missed you at supper."

"I'm sorry. I didn't feel in a sociable mood. I sat with Erskine while he slept."

"He seems stable."

"Aye. I'm praying he improves quickly." She appeared distracted for a moment, then her expression lightened. "I want to thank you for the pup."

"You decided to keep him?"

She gave a faint smile. "Aye. I named him Greum."

Torrin grinned. "'Tis a fitting name. Where is the wee rascal?"

"In my chamber, asleep before the fireplace."

"Spoiling him already?"

"Aye."

"I'm glad you want him."

She dropped her gaze briefly. "I was simply… uncertain before. I suppose I'm afraid of risks in some ways. Not physical risks but…" She shrugged.

"I ken what you mean. 'Tis not easy to let go and put your heart out there. There is always a risk that we'll be hurt in one way or another, no matter what we do. But you're a strong and brave woman, Jessie. I admire you more than I can say."

"I thank you. And I admire you also," she whispered, her blue eyes taking on a seductive quality. "You're very generous and thoughtful to give me such a gift. I'll never be able to repay you."

"Och. I think you will." He grinned. "'Twill only take a bit more convincing."

When she frowned and tried to draw away from him, he took hold of her wrist to keep her there. "I'm teasing. I would accept a thank you kiss, though."

"Rogue," she muttered, giving him a mischievous smile.

"I'll not argue with that." He slowly leaned down and kissed her lips… soft, delectable and tasting of sweet, spiced wine. When she opened her mouth, the kiss quickly turned fiery. Saints! He wanted to consume her.

He drew her the short distance to the door of his guest chamber and inside. Pushing the door closed, he leaned against the wood, pulled her body tight to his and deepened the kiss. When her tongue flicked his, lust seared him.

"Jessie," he growled. Shoving his sporran aside, he pulled her hips tight against his own, hoping she felt how badly he wanted her.

Moaning, she buried her hands in his hair and reached up for more of his forceful kisses.

"I need you," he said.

"Aye." Jessie could not believe how fiercely she craved Torrin at this moment. It seemed each time they were together, her desire for him grew to unbelievable depths. She tugged at his clothing, tried with unsteady hands to unfasten his belt.

"Let me," he said, unbuckling the belt. In a trice, his shirt lay on the floor with his plaid. The fire in the hearth revealed the delicious ridges and planes of his muscular body.

"Now, your turn." With a seductive smile, he had her undressed just as quickly.