But tonight, the memories were too loud. Anger simmered in his veins. For once, he wished to escape reality.
“One,” he allowed. “Just one.”
Myles’s lips curled into a smile that looked far too knowing. He clapped William on the shoulder. “That’s the spirit, me Laird. Come on.”
They crossed the room together. A few heads rose at their movement, then lowered just as quickly. William felt every glance, knowing words traveled fast in places like these.
They sat at the bar, and the barmaid approached instantly. She was a young woman with dark hair that was pulled back in a bun. Her eyes were tired but still held a spark. Wiping her hands on her apron, she smiled politely.
“What will it be?” she asked.
“Two ales,” Myles replied easily, leaning an elbow on the counter. “And ye have the kindest smile I’ve seen all evening.”
The barmaid blushed. “Is that so?”
“Aye,” Myles said, grinning. “I ken a bonny lass when I see one.”
She rolled her eyes, but her cheeks reddened even further as she turned to fetch the drinks. Myles watched her go, pleased with himself.
William accepted the mug when it was placed before him. His fingers wrapped around the handle, but instead of taking a sip, he stared into his drink, lost in thought.
Of course, Myles noticed. Yet he didn’t say anything at first. He simply took a swig of his own drink, before nudging William lightly with his shoulder.
“Ye arenae even lookin’ at the room,” he remarked. “That’s nae like ye.”
William lifted his mug and drank. “Just thinking.”
“Dangerous habit,” Myles said dryly.
He studied William. Humor was rarely found in his gaze, but it was worse tonight.
“Ye’ve been quiet all night. Since the village.”
William set down his mug. “There is nothing to say.”
“There’s always something to say,” Myles countered. Then, more carefully, “Especially when a man’s thoughts are so loud.”
William did not answer.
Myles waited a beat, clearly racking his brain for something to lighten the atmosphere. He spoke again, his voice lighter, his eyes glinting.
“Ye havenae even looked at the lassies in here.”
William glanced around the room, more out of obligation than interest. Indeed, women were scattered all over, laughing, drinking, and dancing. But none of them mattered.
“I’m nae in the mood,” he said flatly.
Myles hummed. “Funny. Usually that’s when ye’re most dangerous.” He took another sip of his drink. “Is there a reason ye’re avoiding them? Perhaps a… certain lass?”
William exhaled harshly. “Watch yer tongue.”
Myles raised both hands in mock surrender. “Easy. I’m only asking.” He leaned closer, ignoring William’s warning. If anything, he seemed close to bursting with questions. “Is it because of Lady Dunrath?”
William clenched his jaw. “Daenae speak her name.”
Myles looked even more surprised now, but only for a moment. Then his mouth quirked into a smug smile. “There it is.”
William shot him a cold glare. He straightened his back and downed his drink. “Ye ken nothing.”
