“What is it?” Fear nipped at her heart when they exchanged a look she could not decipher. “Is everythin’ all right?”
“Joanna used to sing to him when he was a babe.” Caden chewed on his cheek.
“I didnae think he would remember…” Finlay trailed off, staring at the boy.
Ava looked down at Nathan, who was peering up at her shyly. “I could try to sing to make ye happy, but me voice is pretty bad,” she laughed.
Nathan nodded, a plea in his eyes.
She could not say no to his perfect little face. A quick glance at the brothers, who looked like they had been punched in the gut, spurred her into action.
She opened her mouth and let out a squeaky sound to break the tension. Nathan stared at her, shocked, and then burst into giggles. Finlay let loose a snort, and then everyone was laughing.
For the first time, Ava heard Caden’s laugh. It was melodic and deep, and she wanted to hear it every day for the rest of her life. His smile was genuine and warm; it was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen.
Nathan’s giggles eventually turned into loud yawns. He nuzzled into Ava’s arms and smiled sleepily. Standing to carry him up to his room, Ava bid the brothers goodnight.
“Actually, I’d like to put him to bed if ye daenae mind,” Finlay piped up. He stood up and took Nathan from her arms. “I want to sing to him like his maither used to.”
The boy looked so cozy in his uncle’s arms, but Ava could not help smiling at the crazy clothes each wore.
“Good night, dearie.” She kissed Nathan’s head and stepped back. “Good luck peelin’ those itty bitty clothes off, Finlay.” She chuckled at the sight of hulking Finlay in clothes that were too small and tiny Nathan in a blanket that was far too large. She would have to demand they have crazy days more often if that was the sight she was rewarded with. Clearly her intention had nothing to do with hearing Caden’s laughter for the first time.
Finlay rolled his eyes and cradled his nephew’s head. Ava had known him long enough to know that he was glad for the levity. He could not stand too much emotion for very long, as he called it.
Caden still sat in his chair, staring at her, drumming his fingers on the armrest as she turned toward him.
Worried about being alone with her husband after her story about him, Ava decided to leave. She was not ready to face the consequences of her actions.
“Good night, me Laird.” She dipped her head and made her way toward the stairs.
“Nae so fast, wife,” Caden drawled.
CHAPTER 18
Ava walked up the stairs,ignoring him. She was not ready to face him. She wanted to hide in her room.
His footsteps sounded on the stairs behind her.
“Ye dare ignore yer Laird when he’s talkin’ to ye?” He sounded like a wolf circling his prey.
Her heart rate quickened.
At the top of the stairs, she turned to head to her bedchambers when his large hand wrapped around her wrist.
She froze, feeling the air whoosh out of her lungs.
“Wife, look at me.” His touch was firm but not unkind.
Ava turned toward him, her eyes downcast. For the first time, she noticed that he was barefoot.
This is the first time I’m seeing me husband’s feet. Right before I die. God help me.
“Ava,” he prompted, his tone soft and dangerous at the same time.
She lifted her eyes to his and saw curiosity warring with anger.
“What the hell were ye thinking, telling that story?” His lips pressed together into a thin line.
