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He lifted one in return. “Need a spot of liquid courage, do we?”
“Is it that obvious?”
“You hid your nerves very well, but your mother’s letter rattled you.”
Royal poured her an extra splash. After retrieving his own glass, he then propped his broad shoulders against the mantelpiece and commenced studying her with a thoughtful frown.
Ainsley had to admit he appeared rather intimidating as he loomed over her with his brooding demeanor, tall and impossibly brawny. But even if he did look like a Highland brigand, he could never frighten her. She knew his heart, and it held more generosity and love than a woman like her had any right to expect.
She gave him what she hoped was a serene smile before taking a fortifying sip of whisky.
Royal continued to study her, obviously waiting her out. But when it came to keeping secrets, she was equally adept.
Finally, he let out a small sigh. “I don’t wish to pry, love—”
“Oh, of course you do. You’re a terrible busybody. All the Kendricks are.”
He flashed a quick grin. “True, but we always have everyone’s best interests at heart, including yours. Especially yours.”
“I do know that, and I’m grateful.”
“But?”
“But . . . nothing. My mother caught me up on our family’s affairs, and that’s all.”
“That’s all?” he echoed, more than slightly incredulous.
She simply shrugged.
“Even Angus could tell you were distressed,” he said, “and he’s about as sensitive as a stag in rut.”
Ainsley practically choked on her drink. “Thank you for putting that appalling image in my brain.”
“Made to underline my point.”
He took the glass from her hand and plunked it down on the table. Then he grasped her chin and tilted it up. Ainsley thought about bristling, but then reminded herself that she was here to seduce, not to argue. And his gaze was so warm and understanding, his smile so tender, that any ire faded away. It was hard to bristle when a man loved you so much and constantly put your needs ahead of his own.
Since he was also as sharp as the point of a javelin, she’d best parcel out at least a bit of the truth or he might get too suspicious.
“Very well,” she admitted. “Iwasupset.”
He briefly cupped her cheek before dragging over a padded ottoman from beside the hearth. Placing it in front of her, he settled onto it, wincing a bit as he stretched out his leg.
“Won’t you tell me about it?” he quietly asked.
She nodded. “Her letter was quite cold. I’m not used to that from her. Mamma always doted on me.”
“Both your parents did, as I recall.”
“They did,” she said, feeling a bit wistful. “I was the baby of the family and the only girl. So, it makes sense, I suppose.”
“Not to mention you are beautiful, funny, and sweet.”
She widened her eyes at him. “Royal Lancelot Kendrick, you should not tell such plumpers. I wasneversweet.”
He leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to her mouth. He lingered for a few moments, letting his tongue slip a fraction between her lips. As soon as she started to respond, he pulled back, his gaze smoky with desire.
“One can be tart and sweet at the same time,” he said.
