Page 69 of Never Kiss a Scot

“Well, the lass is the one who did it all. She’s quite talented at many things.”

Joanna’s mother bustled inside with a hint of impatience. “Where’s my child?” When she caught sight of her daughter, she held out her arms. Joanna approached her mother demurely, the way a fine lady of any house would.

“Joanna,” Regina said uncertainly. “I hope you’ve forgiven me for not listening to you, my dear. I had no idea how unhappy you were at home. I’m so sorry.”

Joanna embraced her in a tight hug. “It’s all right, Mama. I’m ever so happy now.Deliriouslyhappy.” She shot Brock a smile, and he returned it.

“So things are going well?” Ashton asked Brock.

“Very well. She is the best part of my life. I hope you will see how happy she is while you’re here.”

“I already see that,” Ashton said. “The way she looked at you just now…it’s how I feel when I see Rosalind.” He looked toward Brock’s sister, who was praising Joanna on the improvements to the castle.

“When you love someone, they become everything to you,” Brock said.

Ashton nodded. “On this we can agree.Everythingand more.”

Brock stood proudly in the entryway of his home, the sun beaming in through their new high windows. Joanna had redesigned the old medieval structure and had given it a more modern look. The effect was incredible—more light, more space, moreeverything.

But the truth was, none of that mattered to him. He would’ve given it all up and more, just to have one more moment to know and love her.

His mother was right. Love left no room for hate. And Joanna filled him with love unending.