Chapter 99: Restoration, Part 2

Charlisse collapsed to her knees, and dropped her head into her hands. She slid fingers over her arm where Merrick had touched, then over her shoulder where his warmth had sent every nerve quivering. His scent was upon her: musk, salt, and leather. Why wouldn't he leave her be? Why didn't he go to his Spanish lady?

Fury rose within her, extinguishing her heated nerves and smothering her sorrow. She shot to her feet, took a deep breath, and swiped the tears from her face, berating herself for appearing so weak in front of him.

Donning her shirt, she retrieved her weapons and latched the door. Next time, she would be better prepared.

A loud knock sounded. "Go away!"

"'Tis me wit' yer tea, milady." Sloane's scratchy voice echoed through the thick oak.

"Alone?"

"Aye, milady, just me an' the rats."

She unlatched the door, and he carried in a tray of steaming tea and warm biscuits, a lightness to his step and a smile on his face she envied.