“My lady, you have to admit, it was easy for those men to kidnap you through the passageways.”
Gwen was right, but she was unable to let go of her anger so easy.
“There’s more to it than that. He’s making all the decisions here. This is my home, not his yet, and I intend to remind him of that.” Aileana had no real argument there. Once the betrothal agreement was in place, he could do as he pleased. She sounded a little like a spoiled child, but it didn’t matter. Decisions affecting events occurring in this castle were hers and that was not about to change. He could do as he please in his own home.
She hadn’t given the betrothal ceremonies a single thought once she’d gotten home. Sheena and Gwen had rushed her into the castle and up to her room so quickly, she did not notice the guests had made preparations to leave—direction she had given the previous evening.
Aileana had not informed him of her role in the past. That was a mistake. She was disappointed, but not surprised he wouldn’t realize the importance of appearances in front of everyone. By making the announcement himself he’d established a commanding precedent. She could not allow that.
Gwen fussed around her and was just finishing her hair when Sheena re-entered. Aileana looked in the mirror and took note of the maid’s work. Gwen had chosen a cream gown with gold embroidery on all the edges. The square neck was meant to accentuate her figure and the extended sleeves were graceful. Her hair cascaded down her back. Her outward appearance was in stark contrast to the turmoil bubbling inside her.
“Aileana, he has no idea you’re so upset. Please give him a chance to explain himself.”
Sheena’s words fueled her confidence. She nodded to each woman in turn, squared her shoulders and left the room.
The distance to the solar gave her more time to compose herself. She was ready for battle when she entered the room and found him seated on a chair near the window reading an account scroll. His casual appearance added to her anger. Insufferable man. He could do what he chose. He had already made himself at home here, but this was her home too and she was not about to let him forget it.
“My lord, can you tear yourself away from your reading and allow me a few moments of your time?” Her tone was harsh and his surprised expression told her he had no idea what was coming next.
He placed the scroll on the desk and walked toward her. She watched him take in her appearance from the top of her head trailing down over her features to rest just above her neckline. A lazy, sensual smile rested on his lips.
“My time is all yours, my lady. Did you rest well?”
His hand reached towards her hair, but she pushed it away. She couldn’t believe he’d missed the anger in her eyes. Did he think she’d come to enjoy his company? The arrogance.
“I am displeased, my lord, with your presumptions earlier today. I’m here to inform you we are not yet wed, and until such time, decisions concerning events at this castle and matters of security shall be conducted in consultation with me.”
James blinked. His grin disappeared and his gaze narrowed, sending flutters across her belly.
“I would not wish to interrupt your pleasure, Lady Aileana. I intended to speak with you about the guests, but you see, I was tired from last night’s adventure and as it was, I fell asleep before the opportunity presented itself.”
She could not think of a retort before he continued.
“On the second issue concerning security, I placed a man in your stairwell and I will continue to do so until the time comes when your husband is in your bed to prevent you from leaving it.”
She gasped. He was too bold. James stood mere inches from her, forcing her to look straight up into his face. Her heart pummeled.
“My lord, do not make any further presumptions on my part. ’Tis not my wish to have you in my bed at all. And given the choice I’ll take the man on the stairs.”
She seethed. She glared at him and he glared right back.
“But your lover can come and go into your room as he pleases, is that it? Tell me, is that how you met? By secret passageway?”
“I beg your pardon?”
“Do not play innocent with me Lady Aileana.” James turned his head, but kept his eyes focus on her. “You need to understand though, while you are still betrothed to me, you will not conduct yourself in such a manner again. Once our troth is broken you may do as you please. It’s no wonder your uncle was so anxious to be rid of you.”
Her mouth fell open. She searched his narrowed eyes. Oh dear God he believed what he said. Gawain? Her lover? After a terrifying night spent pondering her fate, she would have never suspected this further abuse.