Strictly Taboo(116)

“You make me laugh daughter. There is not a boring day with you around.” The man’s eyes twinkled in Mai’s presence and he didn’t look so frail any longer. “Am I to assume Mai, that you have escaped the hands of Lord Grey Harper yet again?”

“Tis so. These men are unsure of their names.” Mai chuckled. “They are about to tell their tale over a cup of hot soup.”

“The kettle is boiling over the fire. Let’s see what you dragged home now.”

Mai pulled out a bench for Angus and Rufus to sit on which they used immediately. Angus took a sip of wine Mai’s father provided and cleared his throat before telling his story. He was hesitant but he trusted Mai.

“My name is laird Angus Blake. I am the son of Lord Donald Blake of Fife and this skinny man is my faithful servant Rufus. I fled my father’s estate after the death of my beloved Mother Lady Blair. When she died my father’s kind heart passed with her. I believe it is some type of insanity.” Angus looked to see Mai and her Father stunned at his reveal. “There is more. I’m not looking for my lost sister because they are all at the home estate. I’m the only son of Donald and Blair so it is up to me to produce and heir. My quest is to find a wife that will rule the kingdom with me as taught by my Mother.”

There was no response. Mai didn’t throw herself at Angus’ feet begging to be his bride. Her Father didn’t beg him to rescue them from their state of poverty. In the rear of his mind, he desired them to plead desperately for his help but there were only puzzled looks. Mai looked bored as she twirled her black hair with her finger.

“Lady Blair was your mother.”

“Yes Mai. Did you know my mother?”

“Oh no.” She got away from the fire because it was getting too warm. With a pull of the sash that encircled her neck, her cloak fell to the ground. “I only know Lady Blair as the woman who broke the heart of Lord Grey Harper. He would sour at the thought of my spending time with you.” Mai smiled.

“I know it pleases you to cause ire with Lord Harper but it isn’t wise to antagonize the man.”

Mai looked angry as she pulled at the laces on her dress, which displayed her décolletage. “I know you’re right father.” Mai looked to Angus. “You do not have to worry Angus. I will not use you to anger Lord Harper. Perhaps I will think of a woman to be an appropriate match so you’ll not go back to the estate empty handed.”

Angus was ready to interrupt and state what he thought to be obvious; Mai would be a splendid wife, Lady and mother to his heir. Either Mai was playing coy or she wasn’t as smart as he thought. It was likely the former. Mai’s father Cox MacKnabb was beginning to nod off.

“Tonight you will be a great deal more comfortable than you would have been in the cave.” Mai padded around the room in her stocking feet as she had taken her boots off. Even her feet were perfect. “I have some blankets that we use for the dobbin. They are clean and you can make yourself a place in front of the fire. Father remains in his chair at night and I occupy the only bedroom. I would advise you Angus, to keep your fancy sword by your side. Lord Harper keeps an eye on our cottage. If he finds out you are here he will attack; and we don’t want that.”

Angus tugged at her sleeve before she went into her room. She jumped. “Oh, I didn’t see you there.”

“Thank you Mai. I lied to you and still you invited me into your cottage and fed me. I will repay the kindness someday.” His gaze fell to her breasts that were pouring out of her dress. Mai parted Angus’ lips with her elegant fingers and gave him a smoldering kiss.

“You can repay my kindness by being a guest in my bed tonight. Tomorrow you must leave with your servant. I will face my life with Lord Harper knowing that I had one night of passion with a man that matters.”

Angus was about to speak but she covered his mouth with her luscious lips and led him into her room.

****

Angus woke up as the sun rose over Black Carin Hill in the distance. He reached over with his muscular arm and felt Mai. It had not been a dream and although he had been with women before, none had come close to Mai. His Mother told him to seek a wife that would complete his world. As Angus tangled his fingers in her thick black hair, he knew he had found that woman. Mai was not awake yet so he stayed quiet so as not to disturb her. Her naked body and silky skin were laid out before him. He felt as though she was heaven sent as he watched her chest rise and fall with each breath. Wind caused the shutter to shake which made Mai stir.

“If I open my eyes will I see you or have I been dreaming?” Mai purred.