Highlander's Heart (Clan Matheson #2)

“They’re set to wed before the end of the week.” Tor blew out a long breath, fists clenching and unclenching at his sides. “No one takes Layla from me, not now, not ever.”


“I won’t allow you to lose her either. Whatever you need me to do, I’ll do.” Tavish made the promise with complete ease, their brotherly bond so very tight.

“All I wish to do is protect her from what is about to happen, because breaking the allied relationship between the clans isn’t what I’m after, only breaking her betrothal is.” Tor slid one hand into his pants pocket and dug out the red ribbon he’d taken from her, his gaze softening as he wound it around one finger. “I also won’t take her away from her loved ones here. She needs her father.”

“As Julia needs her parents. We travel back and forth as needed. Cherub would do the same for you and Layla.” Tavish touched his sword to Tor’s sheathed one. “Train with me. You’re strung with tension and need to release it.”

Tor pocketed her ribbon, slid his blade free of his side scabbard and in a series of smooth moves, warmed up. “Once I’ve cleared my head, I intend to tackle my challenging mate, then I’ll deal with Donnan. I won’t have her anywhere near him while he and his clansmen visit.”

“A sound idea.”

“I’ll need your aid in watching over her.” Tor slammed his blade into Tavish’s, his biceps flexing and his tunic pulled taut across his broad shoulders. She curled her fingers into the sill, her need to touch him, to hold him, to never let him go rolling swiftly through her. He battled hard, sweat dampening his skin and as he met each and every one of Tavish’s fast and deadly strikes, the hem of his billowy white tunic lifted and gave a stunning glimpse of his tapered waist and trim hips. She wished to see more of him, could barely contain the need.

With one thought alone, she tore his shirt from him and the scraps of linen swept across the stony yard in the breeze and fluttered against the curtain wall. Tor halted, shock coursing across his face. Oh goodness. She clasped a hand to her mouth. Had she really done that?

Tor glanced toward her window, caught sight of her, his golden shifter gaze locking tight with hers and every delicious inch of his chest now hers for the viewing. Cherub had said if she but opened her heart to him, she’d never regret it and already she struggled to keep Tor at arm’s reach, her need to touch him a constant burn in her blood. Her mouth watered as she ogled his firm abs and tanned pecs. That teasing trail of dark hair that disappeared below the waistband of his leather pants, made her chest tighten with need.

“It looks like your time is already up.” Tavish slapped Tor’s shoulder. “I believe you’re needed elsewhere.”

“Aye, and with all haste.” Tor sheathed his sword and jogged toward the front door.

Heat flushed her cheeks and mortified, she dropped her face into her hands. Well, she’d certainly promised Cherub she’d consider her advice and it seemed she had. She was mated to a shifter and that mate would be here very soon.

“Layla?” A knock rattled the door. “I need to come in.”

“Nay.”

“Wrong answer.” Tor strode in and shut the door behind him, his chest heaving from his fast run. He slid the bolt home, his gaze roaming over her then he crooked one finger. “Come here, my challenging mate.”

“I’m sorry. I didnae mean to rip your tunic from you.”

“Never say sorry for undressing me, although I’d rather you do so in private, but for now, I’ll take whatever you’re willing to offer.” He crooked his finger again. “Come closer…if you dare.”

“I heard your conversation below in the yard with Tavish. Cherub and I too have spoken.” She rolled her shoulders and straightened her back. She could do this. ’Twas time to show her mate exactly what he meant to her.

“About…” A world of encouragement graced that one word.

“Cherub said you’re my match in every way, and if I but open my heart to you, I’ll never regret it. She said you’d be lost without me, never at peace unless I allowed the bond. You are my destiny, just as I am yours, and if I take but one step toward you, you’ll be there to hold me.” She pushed one foot forward, then the next.

“She’s damn right.” He waited, his gaze not straying from hers.

“So either I accept that the fates have brought us both together, or I toss all that could be aside and lose my heart’s true desire.” She halted in front of him and he gripped her waist, his hands so big and warm and sending a thrill jolting through her. “I cannae deny I want you. Being near you excites me, soothes me, and that desire consumes my very soul.”

“Keep talking. This conversation is currently headed in the right direction.” He dipped his head, touched his forehead to hers. “You are my mate, the only woman I’ll ever desire, my match in every way. I’ll speak to Donnan, at the first possible opportunity. Ensure he knows there will be no marriage between the two of you.”