Page 221 of Wicked Highland Heroes

“Did ye finish your business with Angus?” she asked. “How many cattle did ye purchase?”

“He will deliver one hundred head over the next year. He has the best cattle in all the Crieff market.”

“I hope he didna’ demand a high price in revenge for ye beating him at tree chopping.”

“Did I beat him? It seems we were evenly matched.”

She snorted. “Clearly, your end of the log struck the ground first.”

“I am flattered you noticed,” he said, and embarrassment washed over her.

“Of course I noticed. I have eyes.”

“Aye, you do. Lovely eyes.”

Rhoslyn flushed. “Was there something ye wanted, St. Claire? As you must see, I am busy.”

He nodded at the household rolls. “Have you always kept the accounts?”

“Since I was seventeen.”

Surprise flickered in his gaze. “Where did you learn the skill?”

“Alec taught me.” She laughed. “Or I should say he gave into my pestering to teach me.” Sadness settled over her with the memory. “Mistress Muira ran his household so well that I was no’ needed. I cared for Andreana, but she had a nursemaid, which left me too idle for my liking.”

“Most noble ladies spend their days with a needle, or directing the servants, no matter how apt they are spending their husband’s fortunes. Do such things hold no interest for you?”

She wrinkled her nose. “Mistress Muira would no’ allow anyone to direct her. I was wise enough to know better than to make trouble in my husband’s house. As for sewing, I am ashamed to admit even the good sisters at Saint Mary’s could no’ improve my skill.”

“What of spending your husband’s money?” he asked.

Rhoslyn shrugged. “How much can a woman spend?”

“Some can spend a great deal.”

“Is that what you came to speak with me about, spending my money?”

A corner of his mouth twitched.

“I imagine you consider it your money,” she said.

“If it was necessary to pay my men to protect Castle Glenbarr, would you object?” he asked.

“Nay, so long as it wasna’ you who started the trouble that warranted the protection. Is there something ye wish to confess? An old enemy who may come calling?”

“I doubt any of them will venture into the Scottish highlands to avenge themselves on me.”

One already had. His brother.

His expression sobered, and she realized he was thinking the same thing. “There is a matter we need to discuss.”

Apprehension sent a chill through her.

“Would you sit with me near the fire?” he asked.

She rose and crossed to the bench. They sat down and she looked expectantly at him.

“You are looking well,” he said, though she knew he meant ‘you seem to have recovered from my brother’s violation.’