Page 87 of Moon Craving

could seek his own completion, and if he allowed himself, probably come with a couple of

well-delivered strokes, but he wanted more.

He swiveled his hips on each downward thrust, and she gasped with obvious

pleasure. He held himself with rigid control, building her pleasure again until he felt her

body once again tightening around him. He allowed himself release as she screamed his

name and came a second time.

Abigail woke with a residual soreness between her legs. No doubt it would be

much worse if Talorc had not taken such care with her. He had made the consummation

of their marriage incredibly special, but he had not stopped his ministrations there.

He had carried her to the bathing pool and washed her body with gentle hands

while she dozed in his arms. She had been so exhausted. She did not know how long they

soaked in the hot springs, but she could remember snuggling into his arms in sleep at

some point.

She had woken alone though. Just as she had each morning of her marriage thus

far. Her clothing was folded neatly on the edge of the furs. There was food to break her

fast with there as well. She took her time eating, then combing her hair and finally doing

her own pleats on her plaid when Talorc did not show up to help her.

When she came out of the cave it was to find Niall, not her husband, waiting for

her.

She tamped down her disappointment and the embarrassment she hadn't been

smart enough to feel the night before to ask, "Where is your laird?"

"He is your laird, too, lady."

"He is my husband."

Niall smiled, causing the only other soldier nearby to wince. Abigail ignored him

and returned the big warrior's expression.

Niall crossed his arms, making the muscles of his biceps bulge. "Talorc hunts."

"I thought we would ride to the keep today?"

"He said we are to spend at least one more night here."

"But . . . why?"

"He is laird. He need not explain why." Which simply said Niall did not know.