Leona hesitated, glancing around. She spotted Murdock across the square, deep in conversation with Angus and several other elders. He hadn’t noticed her predicament.
And truly, what harm could one dance do? It was expected. She was supposed to be charming his people, making them accept her.
“Of course,” she said, taking the young man’s proffered hand.
His name was Colin, she learned, and he was sweet. Earnest in a way that reminded her of Rufus, though Colin was older.
She could imagine her brother growing up to be like this, kind and respectful. He talked about his work as an apprentice carpenter, about the chair he was making for his mother, about how honored he was to dance with the Laird’s betrothed.
Leona smiled and responded appropriately, letting him lead her through the steps. It was pleasant, easy, and comfortable in a way that demanded nothing from her.
But then she felt it. The weight of a gaze, heavy and intent, making the hair on the back of her neck stand up. Making awareness skitter down her spine like a physical touch.
She looked over Colin’s shoulder, searching, and foundhim.
Murdock stood at the edge of the dancing area, no longer in conversation with the elders. He was alone now, arms crossed over his broad chest, his expression unreadable in the gathering twilight.
But his eyes… his eyes were locked on her with an intensity that stole her breath.
He wasn’t smiling. His jaw was clenched tight enough that she could see the muscle jumping in his cheek even from a distance.And as she watched, unable to look away, his hands curled into fists.
He looked dangerous. Possessive. Like a predator watching someone else touch what belonged to him.
The realization sent heat flooding through her body.
“… me Lady?”
Colin’s voice drew her attention. She’d missed whatever he’d said, too caught up in Murdock’s stare.
“I’m sorry, what?”
“I asked if ye’re enjoying the festival.” Colin smiled, oblivious to the tension crackling across the square. “Ye seemed distracted.”
“I am,” she admitted, her eyes drawn back to Murdock like a moth to a flame. “Just… taking it all in.”
The music swirled around them, and Colin led her through another turn. When she looked again, Murdock had moved. He was closer now, just at the edge of the dancing area, his dark eyes tracking every movement.
Every turn that brought her closer to Colin.
Every shift of the young man’s hand on her waist.
Every smile she gave, even if it was just politeness.
Leona stumbled slightly, her attention divided, and Colin caught her with a laugh.
“Sorry, me Lady! I’m nae the best dancer. Should have warned ye.”
“It’s nae yer fault,” she assured him, her pulse racing. Not from the dance, but from the way Murdock was looking at her. “I’m just tired from all the activities.”
“Of course! Would ye like me to escort ye somewhere to rest?”
Before Leona could respond, before she could even process the innocent offer, Murdock moved.
He didn’t walk toward them. Didn’t push through the crowd. He simply stood there, his eyes burning into her, and inclined his head toward the edge of the square.
It was subtle. Anyone watching would have missed it. But Leona felt the command in that small gesture as clearly as if he’d spoken aloud.
Come. Now.
