"i said no such thing. i said you're beautiful." since he merely caught her chin in a firmer grip, she was helpless when he put his lips on hers. at that first touch, her weak arms sought purchase on his shoulders. he pulled her up to her knees, letting her feel him flush against his body, which was far stronger than she'd teased him about.

"i can smell evan on you," she murmured, loving it. loving them both.

"aye. i didnae think the scrappy runt had that much strength left in him. we both fell asleep like drunkards afterward."

she smiled against his mouth, then lost herself in that kiss, weakening in all the right ways, until he eased her back to the covers, touched her well-kissed lips with a thumb. "you're the most beautiful woman i've ever seen, now and forever. and ye best not take my earlier words as an empty threat. get your strength back, muirn