Rescued by a Highlander(31)

But she wanted to matter to someone.

Alex sat to her right and as he brushed against her briefly, she pulled her arms close to her body, her skin burning at his touch. Her nerves rankled with so many men in attendance, causing her gaze to dart around the table. The scent of Alex and his soap wafted toward her, invading her senses. You are safe. He would not allow anyone to hurt you. Breathing deep, she focused on the man next to her, calming as his presence washed over her. She boldly peeked through her lashes at his profile as he spoke to his sister. How could one man compose her and shatter her all in the same day? What spell had he cast on her? An overpowering urge to brush a lock of hair back from his face coursed through her. She stifled a gasp at the thoughts running through her mind. Did she really want to touch him?

How could she have sat a horse in front of him? She had to have been in contact with him for most of the trip. Her mind filled with inconsistencies. She didn’t want any man to touch her, ever. But for some reason, whenever around Alex, she not only wanted to touch him, but hoped he would touch her. How could that be? She rubbed at the knot forming in her head. She enjoyed his touch, yet instinct forced her to pull away. Why? Why was this man different? Was it due to the horse ride? She recalled his warm arms enfolding her, his breath against her neck. He hadn’t hurt her, but comforted her instead. That had to be the only reason she craved him.

Yet he wanted to make her his prisoner. She couldn’t bear it. She wanted freedom, freedom from male dominance.

Alex noticed the moment he sat, Maddie pulled away from him. She could not be more obvious, although at least she couldn’t walk away from him at the table. Hugh was right. He had certainly made a mess of things in the stables today. He vowed to be better through the meal.

The lady was a vision of loveliness. The green gown, the long golden tresses and her blue eyes almost forced him to lose his wits. What he wouldn’t give to be able to taste her soft skin instead of all the food in the world. He was determined to try harder. Sweet words for a sweet creature, old Hugh had said. He scratched his head as he tried to recall the old man’s advice. Or was it soft words, soft creature? Blast it. How was he to remember such drivel? He had more important things to do than fuss over words. Couldn’t the lass understand his priorities?

Catching her gaze again, he decided to try his best. Her lavender scent reached him and he barely contained his groan. Before long, she would render him powerless.

Brenna motioned for the servants to bring the food when the men took their seats. Trenchers of stew, platters of brown crusty breads and baked apples tantalized their senses.

Robbie spoke first. “So, my lady, how do you like our home? We are all hoping you will stay with us. Or do you have other plans?”

Alex cut in quickly, “She is staying with us.” He abruptly turned and smiled at Maddie. Soft words, soft creature.

Jennie jumped from her seat and clapped her hands. “Aye, I am so happy, Maddie MacD. I want you to stay with us!”

Maddie cleared her throat quietly before addressing them. “You have all been so wonderful to me. But I am afraid I cannot impose on your kindness forever. Once I am sure Kenneth will not cause any more trouble, I will find a place for myself somewhere.” She gave a weak smile and stared at her food.

Alex waited to see if anyone else would respond to her statement. He would never allow her to leave. Didn’t everyone see she belonged here? He searched his family’s faces. She belonged with him. Couldn’t they see that? Silence greeted him, along with expectant gazes from his brothers and sisters.

Speak up, Brenna!

After a few minutes, he sighed and turned to Maddie. “My lady, you belong here. I will not hear of you going elsewhere.”

That should take care of everything. She will have no doubts about where she belongs. He definitely knew those were the right words. Hugh would surely agree with him his comments had been soft enough for her. Why, he had almost whispered his remarks. Maddie would accept his decree and agree to stay without argument, he was certain. He smiled with satisfaction, confident his reasoning was sound.

Four faces darted to Maddie. Alex’s brow furrowed as he stared at his family. What was bothering them now? They were incredibly rude and that irritated him. He watched as Maddie ate a few more bites. Her skin flushed with, what…excitement at knowing she had a home? That must be it, she is so happy now. He grinned at his success, stopping himself from wrapping his arm around her shoulder and pulling her in tight where she belonged.

“I am sorry, Laird Grant, but I will not stay where I am treated as a prisoner.”

Dead silence fell on the table. Alex’s jaw dropped open. Prisoner? Where did that come from? He stared at Maddie, then at the faces across the table. Jennie’s expression stopped him cold. He recognized it, tears were soon to follow.