Page 45 of Highland Guard
“No. We should not act on this attraction, but that does not mean we cannot spend our last night together, side by side, to keep warm and nothing more.”
“But you are betrothed. We should not be lying so close.”
“Tis not set in stone and for now I am free. Dinnae deprive me of the pleasure of holding you in my arms just this once.”
Naomi looked into his eyes and saw a banked fire there. So, she relaxed once more.
“Aye, we can do this to stay warm and nothing more.”
“Aye.”
They were soon holding each other tightly on the pallet. It was a snug fit, but they stayed cozy by sharing blankets and body warmth.
While they were face to face and talking in hushed whispers, Naomi said, “For what it’s worth, I think any woman would be blessed to have you as their husband.” Naomi turned her head slightly onto his chest and closed her eyes.
Kieran froze at the greatest compliment anyone had ever paid him. Then he leaned across and gently kissed Naomi on the lips. “I want you to ken that it has been my greatest honor to guard you and steal your first kiss. I’ll never forget our time together. Now go to sleep, wench.”
“Night, MacKenzie,” Naomi replied with a soft smile on her face. She felt warm and tingly all over as she touched her lips, still feeling the heat of Kieran's upon hers. Soon, they both settled and fell asleep.
***
Chapter 12
Macbeths Castle, Dunsinane Scotland
Standing in the hallwayoutside her chamber in Macbeth’s castle, Naomi felt sad and uncertain. Dermid had been relieved of his duty once they reached the castle so Kieran, who had a small room among the courtiers, made it a priority to escort Naomi to her room.
“Wench, this is where I must leave you. I have an audience with the king before noon. If he rules against me, I’ll have no choice but to wed and return to MacKenzie land. I may never see you again, but I will arrange for your safe passage home,” he said.
Naomi inhaled sharply. She realized this might be the last time she laid eyes on Kieran. On her tiptoes, Naomi brushed a soft kiss on his lips. “I’m grateful for your protection. I will take back everything I said earlier. You make a fine guard, Kieran MacKenzie, and whatever happens, I wish you a long and happy life.”
Kieran simply nodded, gave her a sad smile, and then left before he did something he would regret, like hoist her over his shoulder and run away.
***
IT HAD BEEN AN HOUR, and Kieran was now bathed and dressed to see Macbeth. He still wondered how he was given a room usually reserved for the finest courtiers when a knock at the door interrupted his thoughts. When he opened it, he was surprised to see Dalziel Robertson standing on the threshold.
