Fraser 02 - Highland Quest Read Online Free PDF Page A

him. Why hadn’t moved more swiftly?
    “You did your best. From what I was told, they never stood a chance. You are lucky to be alive.” She lifted his head and brought the tea to his lips again. “Take a drink.”
    As the warm liquid splashed across his tongue, he grasped the cup with both hands, holding it steady while he drained the contents.
    “Enough for now.” She placed the cup on a small wooden table beside the pallet and lowered his head. “You need to get some sleep. I’ll close the shutters and see that you are not disturbed.”
    “I’ve been asleep for three days.”
    “And you need more.” She prepared to leave, but he grasped her wrist, holding her in place. “Dinna go. Let me look at you. I’d forgotten just how breathtaking you are.”
    Fallon shifted in her chair and smiled. “I’ll not be falling for your sweet talk, Bryce Fraser. You need your rest if you want to regain your strength.” She stood, quickly moving out of his reach. “Sleep now. I’ll make some broth. Mayhap after a nap, you will feel up to eating something.” She turned and walked toward the hearth.
    “Wait. If the English or the MacDougalls find me, you and your uncle will be punished for offering aid to a fugitive. I won’t have that on my head as well. Where are my clothes?” He swung his legs off the side of the pallet and tried to sit, but a wave of dizziness overwhelmed him. He gasped, the pain hitting him like a horse kick to his chest.
    “Foolish man. You’re not going anywhere.” She eased him back down and covered him with a pelt. “My uncle knows who you are and he told me you are welcome to stay until your wounds have healed. I’ve spent the last three days tending you, and you’ll not be getting off that pallet until I say so.”
    “But, Fallon, you don’t understand. I’m a fugitive and am—”
    “I understand you are a thrawn , head-strong man. You are as weak as a newly born colt and would not make it to the door without collapsing. Since I dinna fancy hauling you back to bed, I’d suggest you stay put and do as you are told.” She planted her hands on her hips and tapped her toe on the floor.
    He could not help smiling at her candor and the air of authority with which she spoke. Her spirit and temerity were two of the things he found appealing. He’d seen it in the way she challenged him the day they met, and he could see it now. The fire in her eyes, her furrowed brow, and expression of determination on her face were all indications she’d not back down.
    He’d been intrigued by Fallon from the moment she walked into Cailin’s chamber at the Scott stronghold and took charge of her care. A man would have to be blind or a eunuch not to notice her attractive features and slender figure. But there was more to Fallon than met the eye. She possessed an inner radiance and spirit that far exceeded her external beauty. Were he looking for a wife, which he wasn't, Fallon would be his choice.
    “If you move about too soon, you’ll reopen those wounds. You need to rest. Do I make myself clear?”
    “Aye, perfectly clear.” He bit his lower lip to hide a smirk. “Could you do one thing for me?” He coughed, his voice becoming raspy and quiet.
    “What is it you need?” Fallon took a step in his direction.
    “Come closer, I’m suddenly feeling very—” He sucked in a sharp breath and squeezed his eyes shut.
    Fallon hurried to his side and leaned over him. “Has the pain gotten worse? What can I do to help?” Concern returned to her voice as she examined the dressing, then ran her hand over his brow.
    “I . . . I need . . .” His voice trailed off to barely a whisper. He grasped her shoulders and jerked her toward him. “A kiss.” He pressed his lips to hers, despite the hands she’d planted on his chest in an effort to break free.
    She tasted sweet, like the ripe red berries she’d had to break her fast, and even better than he remembered. It had been several months since he’d