Page 37 of A Fierce Archer

Despite the awkwardness of sharing her bed with Ewan, very soon after, Catriona could barely keep her eyes open.

The sound of Ewan’s soft breathing, and the rise and fall of his chest were the perfect lullaby. His chest was broad and strong, his muscular arm heavy and yet comforting on her shoulder. In a way, she didn’t wish the night to end. Would she be so bold as to ask that he sleep there with her nightly?

It was horrible to do it, because she wasn’t sure that it was possible to promise him anything. With the bedding between them, she didn’t feel any kind of threat. However much she wanted his skin against hers, Catriona wasn’t sure what her reaction would be.

The memory of every moment at Mackenzie Keep remained vivid. Simple things would bring back a stark reminder and it was as if she were there once again. Being held down, hit, bitten and taken by a bunch of savage animals.

She let out a deep sigh, forcing the memory away. It was easy to feel protected when lying next to Ewan’s larger body. He exuded strength and security.

Catriona woke with a start and took a sharp intake of breath until remembering that she’d asked Ewan to sleep in her room.

He remained on his back. He faced away from her and was fast asleep. His soft snores made her smile. For some reason, during the night she’d pulled a blanket off and put it over him.

Perhaps he wasn’t the only one who felt protective of the other. Outside was still dark but, in the distance, a rooster crowed alerting dawn would break soon.

For a few moments, she soaked in the moment. Once she woke Ewan, he’d have to leave, and she wasn’t sure they’d have a moment alone for the entire day.

Outside the security of the room were new things. Different people, who’d she’d yet to meet and had to, otherwise it would be rude. Then there were the surroundings to explore. Esme had promised to take her to the adjoining house where she and Ruari lived with a smaller staff and only a handful of guards.

Once she left Ross Keep, she’d not see Ewan because he’d remain there.

There had to be something she could do. If she agreed to allow their courtship, it meant she’d have to be open to a physical relationship. No matter what Ewan said, a marriage could not last without the physical aspect of it.

It was time that she spoke to Esme. Hopefully, together, they could come up with a plan.

Esme kissed Ewan’s jaw. “It is almost dawn.”

When he murmured something undecipherable, she kissed his cheek. “Wake up, Ewan.”

His eyes popped open and he looked around confused. At seeing her, it was obvious he recalled the night before. “I’d hoped to wake up before ye did,” he complained.

Instead of getting up, he wrapped his arms around her and yawned loudly. “Did ye sleep well?”

“I did,” Catriona replied and yawned in return. “I hope ye were not too uncomfortable.”

He pressed a kiss to her temple. “From how soundly I slept, I would say it was a good night’s rest.” Stretching, he looked at her. “It’s best I go.”

“Thank ye,” Catriona said, not wanting him to go. “Ye are kind.”

Ewan rolled over her and held his body up with his elbows and knees so not to place any weight on her. The serious expression on his face hovered just above hers. “My staying here has nothing to do with kindness. I want to be close to ye because I wish ye to be my wife one day.”

“I owe ye a reply. I promise to as soon as I can,” Catriona replied.

When his mouth covered hers, automatically, her eyes fluttered closed and she grabbed his shoulders.

Just as she tried to pull him closer, he broke the kiss and gave her a crooked grin. He got up and stood over the bed. “Go back to sleep. Mayhap dream of ravishing me.”

Catriona remained still, looking straight up. What would have happened if he would have collapsed over her? She’d actually wanted more, needed more.

She couldn’t wait for Esme to come and fetch her for first meal. There was so much to talk about.

***

“Ye did what?” Esme’s wide eyes met hers. The curve of her lips made Catriona feel like less of a wanton. “He is quite strong-willed. I do not know of many men who would sleep with a woman and not demand she give herself to him.”

Catriona frowned. “I know. Should I feel badly?”

“Of course not,” Esme replied emphatically. “However, do not think it can happen often without him losing control. Men are very physical creatures.”