Something like delight—or mayhap anticipation—sparkled in her eyes.
“You would give me a practice blade?”
“I would give ye backyerblade. Was it yer father’s as well?”
Rowena nodded, and I could sense her excitement.
“He taught me to fight as well as any man.”
“Anyhumanman,” I taunted.
She bristled.
“When I beat you, I will not have you claim ‘twas because you were weak. Take the bed.”
My arm tightened around her, loving our verbal sparring as much as I knew I’d welcome the challenge of another battle with her.
“WhenIbeatye, wee wildcat, I’ll no’ have ye claim ‘twas because ye were tired from sleeping on the floor.”
She nodded firmly.
“We will share. I will make you something healthy and filling tonight, and you will sleep well, and tomorrow I will determine if you are well enough for a battle. I will not have you claim my victory was illegitimate.”
I found my gaze resting on her lips.
“I look forward to it.”
“We have a deal?”
My next words surprised me.
“Should we seal it with a kiss?”
Rowena suddenly stiffened. “I am not—that was not—you…”
I shook my head, wondering if Iwasfeverish, and forced a smile.
“I promised ye lass: no’ until ye beg.”
The reminder was as much for me as ‘twas for her, and her response was all myKteerneeded to be reminded. Sputtering, she thrust herself to her feet and stumbled away from me.
“I will not beg, Vrogul.”
I nearly groaned, watching those lips curl around my name so soon after vowing to be strong.
“Aye lass. Keep telling yerself that.”
She shook her head, took a deep breath, then reached down to snag the bucket of water.
“Youwillcome to the cottage early, eat a full dinner, and sleep well. Do you understand?”
This wee warrior of mine was used to command, and I couldn’t help but think of my sister and the way she bossed us all around. My lips curled into a smile.
“Aye, milady.”
She nodded firmly, then spun about.
“I will see you at home.”
I watched the sway of her gown about her hips as she marched past my men and realized I couldn’t wait until this afternoon.
Because she’d referred to my cottage ashome.
