Page 63 of My Highland Love

Her heart sped up.

Marcus's eyes darkened.

There was something warm and enchanting in his humor and, against her better sense, Elise wound an arm around his neck and pulled him to her. Their lips met. Marcus gave a gentle but firm thrust of his tongue against her mouth. She jerked, sure every man present knew of the intimacy, but Marcus held her another moment before breaking the embrace.

He nuzzled her neck. “You make me feel as though I err going into the fields today.”

Elise pulled back and gazed up at him.

He smiled. “Surely my time would be better spent with ye in your bedchamber?”

She drew a sharp breath.

“Nae, sweet.” She tried to break away, but he held her fast. “You don't kiss a man thusly and expect him no' to want more.”

Elise dropped her gaze to his chest. Warmth flooded her midsection at sight of the tan chest visible through his open shirt. She had sped past embarrassment into idiocy. Michael MacGregor and the Sunday Times be damned, she should have stayed in bed.

“It was just a simple kiss,” she said.

His masculine laugh rippled through the air. “I would say then that gives me much to look forward to.”

She jerked her head up.

Marcus released her. “I had better go.” He gave her a roguish wink. “Or I won't be going at all.”

“Wait,” she said. “I have a request.”

“A request?” He turned to test the cinch on his mount's saddle.

“Michael hasn't arrived at Brahan Seer as Erin said he would. Lammas begins tonight, and he promised to be here yesterday. I would like to make a quick visit to see if he is well.”

Marcus turned his gaze on her.

“I know there is a lot to do,” she added hurriedly. “But I would only go there and back.”

“Lass—”

“You can send someone with me. I don't mind.”

“'Tis best—”

“You cannot deny me. It isn't right—”

Marcus grabbed her and she yelped as he clamped a hand over her mouth.

“Hush,” he said. Eyeing her suspiciously, he loosened his hold, then removed his hand from her mouth altogether. “I will send Erin to fetch his father.”

“And if Michael isn't feeling well?”

“I will send someone along with Erin. If Michael is unwell, the man can fetch someone to tend him. Erin will accompany me this morning. I'll send him to his father's this afternoon. They will be back in time for the festivities.”

Her heart sank. “I wanted to see for myself that he is well.”

“If he feels too poorly to make the trip, he'll need a more experienced doctor.”

She scowled. “You think yourself clever, Marcus MacGregor.” His mouth twitched and she gave him a dry look. “All right.” Before realizing her own intent, she gave him a quick kiss on the jaw.

Surprise flashed in his eyes.