“Iain, it’s fine. I want to help.”
Iain glared at her from across the kitchen. Cait shot Sutherland an apologetic look. “It’s like that, is it?” he asked Iain with a grin as he rocked back on his heels.
Iain glowered at him.
“Bring them in,” Cait said. This was exactly why she wanted to avoid a relationship with Iain Campbell. People were beginning to speculate, and soon everyone would know that she and Iain were together. And Iain was once again trying to tell her what to do. She knew his reaction was because he cared for her, but his oppression was stifling, and she was angry.
“Ye need to stop,” she said to Iain when Sutherland left. “These people need me.”
“This isn’t safe,” he said.
“They’re being hunted. They’re cold, hungry, and scared. They’re being run from their country. I’d like to think they’ll remember Scotland with at least some warmth when they reach Canada.”
Iain seemed ready to argue, then stopped. “I know you’re doing good, but I can’t help not liking it.”
“Ye promised that ye wouldn’t try to change me,” she said. “And the first thing ye don’t like, ye’re telling me what to do. I can’t have a relationship like that, Iain.”
He ran a hand down his face. “I don’t like it, but you’re right.” He dropped his hands and sighed. “Well, my plans for the night are ruined. But I’m staying here.”
“Iain—”
“No arguments. I don’t like that you’re the only woman in a houseful of men.”
“Very well.” She wasn’t going to argue anymore. If it made him feel better to stay the night, then so be it. Besides, she missed him when they were apart.
—
“I don’t want to leave you.” Iain rolled to his side and kissed her.
Cait snuggled into his side. “Then don’t.”
“I have to. We’re clearing the north field of the debris from the fire today.”
“Then ye must do that.”
“I don’t like leaving you alone.”
“I’m hardly alone. I have four people sleeping in my cellar.”
“That doesn’t make me feel better. Marry me, Cait.”
She drew back in surprise. “Pardon?”
“Marry me. We hate being apart, and I love you.”
She sat up. “What did ye say?” she whispered.
“I said I love you and I want to marry you and I want to stop spending time apart.”
“Iain…” She was breathless with shock. Not expecting this, not ready for this. She needed time to get used to the two of them together, and this was a giant leap forward. “I don’t know what to say.”
“Say nothing right now. But please think about it.”
“We’re no’ suited.” She was saying things as she was thinking them, but her thoughts were coming too fast.
“I disagree.”
“How can ye say that? Ye have so many prospects. Ye can make a good match and create a dynasty between England and Scotland.”
