Page 170 of Moon Craving

again how she was held responsible for the heinous actions of a dead woman. "When is

the next trade gathering?" she asked the seneschal in what she hoped was not an

obvious bid to change the subject.

"In the early fall."

"Will we attend?"

"The Sinclair always sends a delegation."

"He does not go?" Abigail asked, disappointed. "I would have liked to go."

Guaire looked past her to Talorc and then had to bite back a smile. "I believe your

husband would like your attention."

She turned to Talorc, determined not to answer if he made another comment about

the infamous Tamara or the betrayal of the English. From the fierceness of the frown on

his face, that was exactly what he was thinking about.

She stifled a sigh. "Yes?"

"Would you like to attend the gathering?" he asked, each word bitten off.

Shock had her eyes widening, but she was no fool, no matter what Sybil said.

"Very much so."

"Then we will attend."

"Will I see Emily there?" Excitement coursed through her.

Talorc's countenance, which had just begun to lighten, went dark again. "I do not

know."

"She is my sister and I love her."

"I know how much."

"Please, Talorc . . ." She pleaded to him with her eyes not to get into her sins in

front of his soldiers.

"I will make sure the Balmoral is made aware of our intention to attend."

Pleased at her husband's kindness, tears of frustration still clogged her throat as

she forced out a simple "Thank you."

"No need to thank me. It is my duty to provide for your happiness."

Rather than feeling defeat at his reasoning behind his kindness, Abigail was glad.

"Few husbands would see it so. You are a good man, Talorc."