Page 64 of Wicked Highland Heroes

“A man who drinks too much has a habit of developing that fault.”

Grace smiled. “I am sure you would shoot him if he tried it.”

Eve was doubly surprised that Grace thought she would protect her. “I cannot do that if you are hundreds of miles away in Scotland.”

“Did you consider that he might want to show me off?” Grace asked.

“If he was wise that is exactly what he would do,” Eve said.

Grace’s brows dove downward. “Are you making fun of me?”

“Not at all. You are a beautiful woman. Any man would be proud to have you.”

Grace studied her for a moment. “Are you angry that I’m more beautiful than you?”

Eve smiled. “You always were direct, Grace.”

“It is a bad habit, I know. Mamma says I must curb that fault until I am married.”

“Mamma is not always right.”

“She is not always wrong, either. So, are you?”

“Am I what?” Eve finished her shortbread.

“Angry I am more beautiful.”

“Of course not.”

“I would be.”

“You say that because you are very beautiful and cannot imagine being anything less.”

Grace seemed to consider. “I suppose that is true. Is that wrong?”

Eve shook her head. “No.”

“Are you in love with him?” Grace asked.

“Am I—good Lord—” She broke off and glanced at the clerk who hadn’t reacted to her outburst, but was counting the packages piled high on the counter. Eve looked at Grace and lowered her voice. “No. Why would you ask such a thing?”

“You should be rushing us to the altar. That would save you from marrying him. Instead, you seem to be against our marriage.”

“I am against you getting trapped in a marriage that will leave you miserable.”

“You are confusing me with you,” Grace said. “I am not looking for a love match.”

“You deserve love, Grace.”

“Deserve love?” She shuddered. “That is far too much trouble.”

“Love is not trouble.” Well, maybe it was a bit, she privately admitted.

“You are funny,” Grace said. “You’re much more practical than I, yet you believe in love. I, on the other hand, have no use for love. I plan to enjoy myself.”

“How much time can you actually spend parting your husband from his money?” Eve asked. “Will spending money and going to parties be your life?”

“Partly.” A small smile curled a corner of her mouth.