Chapter Eight
At dinner, Kenzie sat stunned as Braxton told both her and Gwen of Ben’s departure that afternoon. She’d been sitting in her room, trepidation making the book she’d held in her hands shake when she’d heard Ben stride down the hall. It must have been the time that he was going. That he was leaving to return to Castle Ross had not been what she’d expected to hear. A small part of her had hoped he’d stride into her room and quench the thirst she had for him. After what had happened in the library, she thought he might take charge, burst into her room, and seduce her.
Apparently not.
It was an odd reaction to have since Kenzie had never liked overbearing men. Maybe it was because she’d inherited a Scottish estate and had taken over the running and care of it when she was of age. She’d been brought up to be independent and often did what needed to be done herself. She had never relied on any others for support. Of course, she had been happy if it was offered, but it had not been needed, necessarily.
So, to want Ben to take charge of her body, throw her onto her bed, play her like a fine instrument until she sang, wasn’t the norm.
“Why did you not try and stop him? Aedan and Abby will be here later today. And now there is no point in bringing them all this way.” A small frown line marred Gwen’s brow and it was a frustration and disappointment Kenzie understood.
“You wanted me to keep Black Ben, one of the most fearsome Scots this side of Edinburgh here against his will? I dinna have a death wish, wife.”
Gwen huffed out an annoyed breath. “I thought he was bringing his son here.”
“Yes, well I suppose he wished to return home to ensure that not only was his son well, but also that Castle Ross does not come into jeopardy by Clan Grant. You know they never approved of Aline marrying him, and they’re seeking out justified revenge, in their opinion if I know anything about them.”
Kenzie hadn’t thought it was as bad as all that, but perhaps she was allowing her twenty-first-century mind not to rationalize too much and not see just how hard and dangerous this time was for others.
“Do you think Clan Grant will strike at Ben?” Knowing that in only three months Ben would be killed, Kenzie couldn’t help but think that this was perhaps the start of the Black Ben mystery that historians had wondered about. Clan Grant held a grudge, so it could be that laird who had a price on Ben’s head.
“I have to follow him, Gwen. You know why.” Kenzie didn’t want to say any more as Braxton wasn’t aware of Ben’s fate, but perhaps it was only a matter of time, if his accusing glance at Gwen was any indication.
“I promised Kenzie not to say anything, but under the circumstances, I’m sure she will understand,” Gwen said, setting down her napkin.
Kenzie wasn’t too sure about that…
Gwen explained to Braxton what she had told her only weeks ago and watched with growing alarm as her ancestor’s visage took on a horrified look.
“I must notify Aedan of this. As soon as he arrives and you,” Braxton said, his attention snapping to her, “must explain everything that ye know of Black Ben’s death. We cannot allow what history has deemed his fate to happen. He deserves better than that.”
When Kenzie had first met Ben, she couldn’t think of a more fitting outcome for the man. But now, the Highlander may be a little rough around the edges, but he did genuinely care for her family, and his death was not justified. Men married women without love all the time. It was not a crime worthy of death. Clan Grant might never believe that the marriage was a happy one, but Kenzie would disagree. Ben had certainly found Aline attractive, and Kenzie was sure that he had made her as happy as he could. They may not have loved each other, but they did care for each other a great deal, and that is more than many could boast.
It was no one’s fault that Aline had passed away during childbirth. Unfortunately, that happened, even in her own time.
They sat in the grand hall, the large fire burning and throwing heat about the cathedral-type room. Some of the clan sat on trestle tables before them, eating and talking, all of them unaware of Kenzie’s troubles.
The doors to the front of the house burst open, and in strode a rider who looked saddle worn and tired. He gazed about the room and then started toward them, handing a missive to Braxton before Gwen handed him some coin, and he was gone as quick as he came. The clansmen present stopped eating and cast speculative glances their way.
“Who’s the missive from, my dear,” Gwen asked, taking a roll of bread and dipping it into the stew.
“Aedan. Abby isn’t well, and they’re unable to come.” He paused, folding the missive again. “’Tis probably for the best. I shall travel to Druiminn Castle and speak to them in person. You’ll come, too, Gwen. If what Kenzie knows of Ben’s future is true, having you at Druiminn will be safer, should I have to accompany Aedan to Castle Ross.”
“You think Aedan will travel to Ben’s home, knowing what we do?” It shouldn’t surprise Kenzie that he would, as it was exactly what she herself wanted to do. Ben was his oldest friend and ally. The man had married Aline so Aedan could marry Abby. If they did arrive with reinforcements, it might be enough to tweak Ben’s past and his death would never occur. Hope bloomed in her chest.
“Aedan will go, and so, too, will my husband, but take care, Braxton. Kenzie knows very little in relation to Ben’s death. He just seems to disappear. So, whoever his enemy is, he’s cunning and most likely someone Ben knows but does not suspect. Mayhap ’tis someone none of ye would.”
Kenzie stood, the crunch of her chair across the flagstone floor echoed loud within the room. “I’m going, too, and I’ll pack tonight.” She held up her hand when Braxton stood and crossed his arms.
“Stop, Braxton. I’m going, and there is nothing you can do to stop me. As much as I love you both very much, I have to go. It was one of my main reasons for traveling back. And anyway,” she said, shrugging, “you and Aedan will soon be at Castle Ross. There is nothing for me to fear.”
Braxton looked less than convinced, but Gwen smiled, pulling her husband to sit back down. “I will have a horse prepared for departure first thing in the morning and send some armed men with ye. You’ll be safe, my dear, but be warned, ’tis a five-day horse ride to Castle Ross. Are ye sure you’re up to it? If you’re not used to such long distances on horseback, it can become quite uncomfortable.”
Kenzie waved her concerns away, absolutely positive that this was the right choice. Five days on horseback shouldn’t be so bad. As long as the horse didn’t get spooked and bolt, everything would be great. “I’ll be fine. I promise. Five-day horse ride will be fine. With all the renovations I’ve done in my life, I think it’s safe to say I’ve done worse.”
…
She had not done worse. In fact, the pain in her legs and her bottom could very well be the worst hurt she’d ever experienced in her life. The first day of travel had gone well, and though when she’d jumped down from her mare to eat it had taken a few steps and stretching to feel herself again, it hadn’t been so bad.
But by end of day two, her inner thighs had started to rub against the saddle, even though she’d worn trews under her dress. Not only that, her bottom was so numb that she wondered if it had fallen off.
And no matter how much she rubbed it, or walked about when they stopped, nothing helped. It also didn’t help that the few armed men that accompanied her seemed quite amused by her unfortunate circumstances. Kenzie was positive they’d taken the long way round to Castle Ross and were spending less time on breaks. No doubt taking pleasure from her pain.
Damn Highlanders.
By day five, the outer lands of Castle Ross could not come soon enough. They rested the horses beside a slow flowing river, and Kenzie took the opportunity to wash her face and freshen up as much as she could. The thought of a warm soaking bath made her get the men going sooner than they probably wanted, but Kenzie had had enough. If she ever sat on another horse it would be too soon. If only she had her car, she would’ve been at Castle Ross within a few hours.
Her first glimpse of Castle Ross was nothing like she expected. It sat on a picturesque outcrop of land beside a loch. One single road led toward the castle, and the greenest land circled the building like a protective screen from the waters below. Kenzie pulled her horse to a stop, taking in the castle’s magnificence. In her own time, she’d only seen the ruins of this great home. To see it in its full glory—chimneys with smoke puffing out, windows twinkling in the afternoon sun, people milling about outside, going about their jobs—was amazing.
As they came closer, the structure became more imposing. She had always tried to imagine the castle as it once was, but with only a few walls remaining, and even those broken and crumbling with age, it was hard to tell just how large the home had once been.
Seeing it now was awe-inspiring. Castle Ross was, in one word, stunning.
“They’ve seen us,” one of her guards shouted.
Kenzie tore her gaze from the many turrets and windows of the castle, to the men who had come out from the entrance gate and were blocking their way.
They rode up to them, and seeing that her guards dismounted, Kenzie did the same, trying to stem the niggling bite of fear that trembled in her stomach that they might be seen as a threat. All would be well once they understood she was a friend of Laird Ross.
“What’s ye business with the Laird Ross this day?”
An imposing guard, with shoulders the size of a heavyweight boxer, stepped in front of the other men, crossing his arms over his chest. Kenzie couldn’t stop looking at the size of his muscles until one of her own men cleared his throat.
“I’m a relative of Gwendolyn Macleod and friend to Laird Ross. I’ve traveled here to speak with your laird.”
“Ye’re English.” The question was more like a statement that left a bitter taste in the man’s mouth.
Kenzie raised her chin, not about to let this man treat her with disrespect. “And Scottish, not that it is any concern of yours. Now, if you please, would you inform your laird of my arrival and let him choose if where I grew up affects our friendship.”
The man’s gaze narrowed on her, but a flicker of respect entered his brown orbs and some of Kenzie’s trepidation dissipated.
“If you’ll follow me, I’ll take ye to our laird.”
When all of them started to follow, the guard stopped, pointing at her men. “Just the lady. Ye men stay here until our laird deems it safe.”
Kenzie turned to face her guards. “These are Gwendolyn MacLeod and Sir Braxton’s men. They are not a threat.”
“Even so, our laird will be the decider on that.”
She frowned, not wanting to leave the men who’d kept her safe for the past five days out in the cold. “I shall not be long. This is just precautionary, I’m sure. As soon as I see the laird, I’ll have you brought inside.”
“Right ye are, miss,” her guard said, nodding slightly, but clasping the helm of his sword in silent warning to any who might wish to do her harm. Kenzie smiled, thankful that men she’d only known a few days could be so loyal as to give up their lives for her. Not that it was necessary here, as the Laird of Ross would soon welcome them. But this time was fraught with danger, and one who owned such large, profitable holdings could not be complacent.
They started toward the castle and the arched doorway. The guards stepped to the side and allowed her to enter the castle proper. Goose bumps rose on her skin at the temperature change, somehow inside the castle walls it was colder, and she pulled her shawl closer about her shoulders.
The entrance opened into a large anteroom with no real function, from what Kenzie could tell, before going through a door adjacent to the front one the room gave way to the great hall. Wooden tables ran the length of the room—one of which housed two padded seats that was undoubtedly where the laird and his wife would break their fast—and on both sides of the space, two large fires burned with ferocity.
Kenzie stood transfixed, taking in all that was before her. In her time, all of this was rubble, nothing but layers of stone that had long fallen into total disrepair. The fireplace still stood, but other than that, that was it.
“You may wait near the fire,” the guard said, pointing toward it as if she couldn’t see it right in front of her.
Kenzie nodded, not really worried where she waited, so long as she got to stay in this room and memorize everything so when she returned to her time, she could ensure Castle Ross was restored to its exact former glory.
She strolled over to the table where the laird would eat at meal times and ran her hand over the top of the dark wooden chair engraved with scrolls and different patterns. An embroidered cushion that sported a hunting scene was its only luxury. The embroidery was very well done, and Kenzie wondered if Aline had stitched it for their comfort.
The sound of a banging door made her jump, and she recognized the footsteps without turning about. “Good evening, Ben,” she said, feeling the presence of him as he came to stand behind her.
His hands came down on her shoulders and he turned her to face him. Kenzie had to look up to meet his eyes, and a shiver of expectation ran through her as his gaze was warm and welcoming.
“What are ye doing here, lass? I didn’t expect to see ye again.”
He let his hands drop to his sides, and she missed the contact as soon as it was gone. How was it possible that in less than a week she had missed the rogue? From the moment he’d returned to his estate, Kenzie had known she would follow him if only to try and save him from his own fate. To say goodbye.
“My parents’ marriage wasn’t a happy one and I didn’t want to return to my time regretting any of my choices here. My mother regrets most of her choices in life, probably all but me, and I don’t want to live like that. I had to see you again.”
A slight, wicked smile lifted his lips, and Kenzie’s legs jiggled like jelly. “And what would seeing me again achieve, lass?” He stepped closer still, and without thought, she reached out, clasping his hip, the tartan kilt rough against her palms.
“It would mean I would achieve saying goodbye to you. You disappeared without coming to see me, so we may wish each other well.”
“I dinna think ye would care if we wished each other well. We dinna part on the best terms the last time I saw ye. If I recall we were in disagreement about the kiss.”
“I hardly think it was a disagreement.”
He stepped closer, giving her a lazy smile.
Should she let him tease her into kissing him? Right now, Kenzie wanted nothing more than to show him he was not the only one who could taunt and tease. But by doing so opened up a whole can of worms where emotions could start to come into play and feelings that could result in pain.
“I should imagine you’ve kissed many women.” History certainly stated Black Ben had a woman in every port and inland town, prior to his marriage, at least. Kenzie hated reading about such things, knowing so many women had enjoyed the man before her, but maybe with any luck it was all false. It was something certainly to hope for.
“I have, but no one that mattered since Aline passed away.”
“Gwen said she found you the night before you arrived at her home in a tavern, and your business there was obvious, if you know what I mean.”
“Nay, what do ye mean, lass,” he asked, meekly.
Kenzie almost scoffed. There wasn’t a meek bone in his body. “The rumors that followed you to Gwen and Braxton’s home suggested you’d been whoring your way around Scotland since Aline’s death.”
“Aye, I may have been, but ye cannot believe everything ye hear. And I’m here now, with you.”
“Hmm,” Kenzie said, sitting herself down on a chair close to the fire. “I have some of Braxton’s men outside the walls. Will you let them in? I’m sure they’re hungry and in need of a good night’s sleep.”
“When the guards came and told me of your arrival, I sent them word to allow the men to enter. Cook will have some fare taken out to them since we’ve already eaten this evening.”
Her stomach chose that exact time to rumble. “Would it be any trouble if I could also have something to eat? I’ve not eaten since lunch.”
Ben yelled out to a man who stood silently at the end of the room. “Have some of tonight’s dinner brought up for our guest, and have a room prepared. She’ll be staying for a time.”
She met his gaze and her toes curled and her body thrummed from the look. They were alone here now. Gwen and Braxton were miles away and not around to interrupt…
“You have a beautiful castle. I’ve visited it, you know, in my time.”
“Ye have?” Ben’s seemed genuinely delighted by the notion. “And ’tis it as grand as it is right now? Are my descendants still ruling the area?”
Thankfully, the food arrived for it allowed Kenzie to prepare her answer. She placed an apple and a pear on her plate along with some flat bread and pheasant. What could she say to Ben that wouldn’t give away what was to happen to him in a few months? Had she been in his position, she would want to know the truth, no matter how painful. “Castle Ross, unfortunately, is not as grand, and your family is no longer in charge of it. But it has a new owner now, who is determined to make it as magnificent as it once was. I have no doubt she will succeed.”
He sat forward, the line between his brow as deep as a ravine. “My family no longer have Castle Ross?” He gestured with his hands. “How can that be? Why?”
“A lot of castles and great estates were lost to the great families who owned them after the first World War that took place in 1918 to 1922. They placed taxes on estates that were never there before, and after such a bloody war, where a lot of families lost their heirs and the workers who helped keep the estates running were killed in action, a lot of the homes were sold or demolished.” It wasn’t what had happened to Ben’s family or Castle Ross, but it was the truth for so many others, and Kenzie wasn’t ready to tell Ben that he lost his home in his own time due to an unknown entity that she had yet to figure out. This way was better and hopefully, would ease the hurt he no doubt was feeling about the revelation. “I’m sorry, Ben. I know it’s not what anyone would wish to hear.”
“What is this World War you talk of?”
How could she explain this to him and make sense? “It’s a large-scale war involving many powerful countries around the world. This war spanned multiple locations with wide-spread battles.” He looked bewildered.
He slumped on to a nearby chair, running his hand across his stubbled jaw. “This is upsetting.”
“History is cruel, and this is not something that you were ever to know. Had I not arrived and told you, it would not be a concern of yours.”
“Aye,” he said throwing her that devilishly gorgeous lazy smile that made her ache. “I see ye point.”
Kenzie ate some pheasant, using her fingers to pick up the bird since she couldn’t find a knife. She watched Ben while she chewed. He was lost in thought and staring at the fire. She didn’t like seeing him look so sad, but she could understand why he was quiet, so she let him be while she finished her food.
“Tell me of one of your fondest memories growing up here. I’m sure this castle has lots of history and tales that its walls could tell.”
He met her gaze, nodding. “’Tis true, it has many stories. One of my fondest was hiding from Nurse. Upstairs near the nursery there is a hidden room between the two rooms. Not many of the staff know of it, and whenever I wished to skip my reading or writing lessons, I’d hide in there. I could hear them running about, calling out my name, and eventually, I’d come out and sit back at my desk as if I’d been there the whole time.”
Kenzie laughed. She could just imagine the young laird being a little shit when he was younger. “It seems your ability to be naughty hasn’t changed.”
He threw her a look of pure wickedness and her stomach clenched.
“Where’s the fun in being good?”
Not willing to open that can of worms, Kenzie placed her empty plate down. “I hope you don’t mind me coming to stay. As I said, I’ve always wanted to see Castle Ross, and since I’m here now, I thought it a good idea to visit.”
“I dinna mind in the least. I look forward to having ye stay here with me.”
“Gwen mentioned that Clan Grant were here. Are they still?”
“Nay, they were gone by the time I arrived home, but my steward mentioned that Evan Grant, the future laird, was only too willing to yell and order around my clansmen while he was here. Not that they obeyed, mind. My men would know better than to betray me in such a way, but I wonder at what Evan meant by such actions. ’Tis certainly an act of betrayal. I would never presume to do such a thing in his keep.”
Aline’s family seemed to be troublesome and the more Kenzie heard of them the more she was inclined to believe it was them who would attack and kill Ben. He may not believe anyone was out to get him, but they were. History said so, and the Grants were showing many signs of antagonism toward Ben. She would have to convince him to be wary of them.
Ben sipped his ale and his gaze caught hers over the top of the mug. He placed the cup down and leaned forward in his chair. “Let us talk of other things. I dinna want to waste my breath on the Grants.”
“What would you like to discuss instead?” Kenzie asked, warily.
“I would like to discuss this feeling that I have toward ye that I get each and every time you’re near.”
Kenzie would like to do more than talk about the ‘feeling’ but would it be too forward if she made the first move? This period in history said no to acting in such a way, but she doubted Ben would care overly much. She got up and went to stand before the fire.
“I won’t play coy and say that I don’t know what you’re talking about, because I do.” Boy, did she ever. She’d been drawn to the man ever since she was a young girl and she’d seen the painting of him. She’d always wondered what he’d been like, who he’d loved, and what had happened to him. “Maybe we could try that kiss again?” she said, hoping he’d agree.
Shock registered on his face before the hunger that made her own blood sing took hold. He stood and came toward her. Unable to wait a minute longer, Kenzie reached up and pulled him down for a kiss.
Their lips met, and her heart was in serious trouble. For all the roughness about Ben, his lips were as soft as butter. His hands clasped her face, and he deepened the kiss, the invasion of his tongue not wet and sloppy, like other men she’d kissed, but sweet and seductive. Kissing was always enjoyable, but this kaleidoscope of emotions, the rioting feelings that he evoked in her, left her grasping for purchase and unlike anything she’d ever felt before.
Kenzie threw herself into the kiss, no longer satisfied with doing what was safe, or what was expected. Tonight, she would allow herself to be swept up by a man who challenged, infuriated, and fascinated her all at once.
She lifted herself up on her toes, wrapping her arms about his neck. Ben did the same, but in a more languorous way, sliding his hands down her throat and arms and then her hips, pulling her hard against him. Within Ben’s arms, everything was different. It was as if her senses were on overdrive and out of control.
His hands flexed against her hips as he ground against her. She gasped, feeling the bulging excitement behind his kilt. He was big. She hoped she’d not bitten off more than she could chew.
“Do ye want me to stop, lass?” He pulled back a fraction, his lust-laden gaze burning with unsated need. “I shall leave ye, should ye wish it. But if we continue this way, I’m not sure I’ll ever let ye leave my arms again.”
Oh my… This man said all the right words. It was if she was living a real-life romance novel, where the heroine found her soulmate in a different century. Not that they were soulmates—they fought and disagreed on too many things, but still… His deep Scottish brogue was seriously sexy. “I don’t want you to stop.”
He growled and hoisted her into his arms, kissing her with a fervor that left her breathless. His determined strides ate up the distance from the great hall to the stone staircase. Was he taking her to his room? Oh, yes, please.
Kenzie didn’t break the kiss, not ever wanting to stop kissing this man. There was something about him that drew her even before she’d known him in person. It was an oddity she’d never understood. Perhaps they’d been destined to meet all along and be just as they were now, clasped together and about to have some hot and heavy sex.
Making his room, he kicked the door shut, and Kenzie giggled. It was so barbarian of him. He placed her on her feet, and she started to undo the laces at the front of her dress. He watched her in silence. Each time her gown gaped a little more, his gaze turned darker.
With a swoosh, her gown pooled at her feet, and she stood before him in nothing but her shift. Thankfully, beneath her feet was a bearskin rug and a roaring fire behind her that threw out plenty of warmth. “Are you going to take off your kilt, Ben” she asked, running her hand down his back and over his perfectly formed ass.
“Why don’t ye do it for me.”
Kenzie grinned and untied the sporran about his waist, before unpinning his kilt. It, too, fell heavy upon the floor and left him standing in nothing but his birthday suit. Kenzie expelled a satisfied sigh at the sight of Ben naked. Now he was hers to do with as she pleased. Not a shred of embarrassment marked his visage, and she marveled at his confidence. “You’re more of an expert at this type of thing. What did you want to do next, my liege?”
Ben lifted her up as if she weighed nothing at all, and she wrapped her legs about his hips, gasping as his member nestled against her sex. She’d never been this close to a man that she wanted so much before. His hardness and pricking of hair against her tickled and teased.
Yearning for more, she undulated against his cock and heard his muffled curse against her ear. She wanted to ride him, lose control, and be anything but a lady in his arms.
“Ye’re so sweet, lass.” His hand moved up her leg to clasp her bottom, squeezing her flesh and rubbing it in turn. “I want ye so much.”
She clasped his unshaven jaw, making him meet her gaze. “I want you, too. More than I’ve ever wanted anyone in my life, but there’s something you should know.”
He frowned, taking in her features. “What is it?”
“I don’t want you to think I’m sleeping with you to gain a husband because I’m not. No offense, but I’m not staying, so I’m hoping you’ll look at this interaction as a bit of fun—an enjoyable way to pass the time while I’m still here.”
He chuckled, picking her up again and walking toward the bed. “Are ye trying to tell me in the nicest way possible that ye’re not looking to have me as ye husband? That ye just want me to tup ye so well that your time passes pleasantly?”
He laid her on the bed, and a shiver of excitement ran through her. “That’s exactly what I’m saying.” Kenzie reached down and stroked his cock, unable to fathom she was about to sleep with a Highland warrior. Ben leaned over her, a tower of muscle and dark beauty, and somewhere deep inside, Kenzie knew her life would never be the same again.
…
Ben watched a full-body flush disperse across perfect, unblemished skin, and he wanted to kiss every inch that the rose bloom marked. Kenzie was so beautiful and smart that she literally left him in awe.
That her viperish, no-nonsense tongue didn’t put up with any of his shit was also quite a turn-on.
She shuffled back on his animal-skin-covered bed, and he followed her, running his hand along one flawless foot all the way to her hip, where he reached around and kneaded one perfectly sized ass globe.
“Will it vex ye to know that since ye attended me that first night, I’ve wanted to tup ye? Have ye just as you are right now. Naked and mine to do with as I please.”
Her breasts were a perfect handful, and he ran a finger over the peaks, watching as the skin on her nipples pulled tight and darkened in color. Kenzie’s breathing became ragged, which was only fair, as Ben’s own body was on fire and not the least in control.
This woman did odd things to him, made him yearn for things that he’d never thought to have again. He reminded himself this was a little fun. A bit of tupping between two adults who wanted no other responsibilities with it. Never again would he place another woman in jeopardy by making her pregnant. No matter what the healer said, Ben couldn’t help but wonder if giving birth was the sole reason behind Aline’s untimely death. Not a tumor…
Tonight, he would take this lass, but he wouldn’t spill his seed within her. Never again would he be so reckless.
She reached up and linked her fingers behind his neck, the trust in her eyes making his body ache with need. “If we’re being honest with each other I, too, need to tell you that on that first night, before you opened your mouth and ruined all my fantasies, I wanted you, too. You were so untouchable and rugged, I thought my heart would burst free from my chest, you made it beat so hard.”
Pleasure rocked through Ben at her words. She had wanted him? The truth of her statement made him desire her even more. Writhing and screaming his name against his ear, feeling her body convulse around his cock when she came.
Damn, he needed her like he needed air.
“I’m glad to hear it, lass,” he said, taking her lips, showing her without words how much he wanted her. Needed her even. She kissed him back, taking his mouth with vigor. Her hips pushed up against his hard sex, teasing him as much as herself with the friction.
“I want you Ben. Now.”
He growled and sitting up, kneeled between her legs. Again, the delightful blush rose on her skin, but she would color a lot more before this night was over. He grinned at the thought.
He pulled her legs up and ran a finger down the inner side of her thigh, all the way to the apex of her legs where she glistened with arousal. It took all of his control not to take her as quick and fast as he wanted. But no, not tonight. Somehow, in some way, he’d earned her trust enough that she was willing to give herself to him. He wanted to be the man, like no other, in giving her pleasure.
He would not mess it up or rush what he wanted Kenzie to remember forever. Take a little piece of his soul to the future with her and measure all her lovers against his standard.
Slowly, he ran his finger across her patch of curls, sliding it between her folds, enjoying the view of Kenzie biting her lip and squirming beneath his touch.
He delved further and found her entrance hot and tight, too tight to be able to take him straight away. Ben pushed into her heat, watching her as he teased her wider, deeper with each stroke.
“What are you doing to me?” She sighed, reaching for him.
He met her gaze and was glad to see the lust that echoed his own reflected in her emerald eyes. “Has it been awhile since ye slept with a man, lass? I dinna want to hurt ye.” She nodded, moaning when he stroked the pleasure point, before sliding again into her welcoming heat.
“I’m so ready. Truly ready right now, Ben.” She licked her lips, and seeing her delightful pink tongue made his cock tighten. The need running through his veins was too much, and Ben took himself into his own hand, stroking his cock, while fucking her with his fingers.
It was too good. Too right. Kenzie reached up and helped him. He had to have her. Now. He settled over her, and excitement and trepidation met his gaze.
“All will be well, lass. I’m sure ye won’t have any trouble accommodating me once I finish teasing ye. I want to give ye pleasure and nothing more.”
“Hmm. Sounds perfect.” Kenzie wrapped her legs about his hips, her mons pressing against his cock. He slid against her, teasing them more. He was near to losing himself like a lad who’d just found out what his cock could do.
“I’m sorry, lass,” he said and sheathed himself fully within her. She swore, and he fought not to smile at the expletive she uttered. How different she was from anyone he’d ever known before—not afraid to bare her soul to him and enjoy what he offered.
Ben cautioned himself to take care. He didn’t need to feel any more than he already did for the lass. Anything further would only leave him bereft when she left.
He slowed his strokes, giving her time to adjust to his size, which unfortunately for Kenzie, was quite a large cock to take for any woman. She slowly relaxed in his hold, grinned when her feet slid up to sit atop his ass.
She sighed; her gaze, full of wonder, met his. “We seem to fit well.” She grinned, biting her bottom lip.
At her subdued chuckle, Ben pushed into her further, wanting Kenzie to come around him, shatter and break against his cock. An overwhelming sensation that the woman beneath him threatened his life, but in a good way, consumed him. He didn’t want to prepare her for anyone else, have her measure all her lovers after him against his ability.
Damn it, Ben didn’t even want to imagine her leaving and getting on with her life with someone else. Allowing other men to make love to her, touch and kiss her as he wished to do. Over and over again if she’d allow it.
Which, if the scraping of her nails on his shoulders were any indication, she did.
Forever…echoed in his mind, and he sliced it away. Whatever this was between him and Kenzie, whatever it was that drew them like a moth to flame was only fleeting. A flash in time for them to enjoy each other’s company. Forever was not a word he would associate with the lass and their future.
He took her more forcefully, and she moaned, her hands splaying against his back. Sweat trickled down his brow, as he pushed in further. His balls tightened, his body desperate for the pleasure he would take from her when they came.
She called out his name, and he was desperate to make her say it again; their joining became almost frantic. Not a whisper of space separated them, and he clasped her, fucked her hard and fast, knowing that with each stroke, the closer they both climbed to that peak that would topple them over into an abyss of satisfaction.
“Oh, Ben,” she gasped, the breath of her words making the hairs on his neck spike. “Don’t you dare stop. It feels so good.”
“I’m not going to stop, lass. Not until ye shatter into a million pieces.”
Their gazes locked, and her mouth opened as if to say something else, before she threw her head back, his name the only word she released into the room. He rode her until all her pleasure was spent and he’d drawn out as much of her orgasm as he could.
Ben pushed, once, twice but didn’t dare take his pleasure any further, and he pulled out to stroke his cock and spill his seed over her heaving stomach. There was something innately dirty, but exciting, at marking a woman in such a way. He took a nearby rag and wiped her stomach clean before Kenzie rolled over to lay in his arms when he flopped beside her.
“That was the best,” she said, flinging her arm over his waist and closing her eyes. “I enjoyed that immensely.”
Ben frowned, not wanting to imagine her in the throes of pleasure with anyone but himself. He ran a hand over her back, pulling her close. “Not all men give their women such enjoyment. Why, the next imbecile ye sleep with may be a dud, and not even know which hole to put his cock into.”
She chuckled against his chest and placed a light kiss over his heart. “With such a good teacher as I’ve had tonight, I’m sure I can bestow my learning onto them, enough to make even you proud.”
Ben grunted a noncommittal reply. He wanted to murder the bastard who would even think to touch his Kenzie. Was she trying to drive him mad with such thoughts of others in her bed? Something told him she was. “Do not test me, lass. Ye may not like what happens when ye do.” Or she’d like it too much and want more of the same. Which was quite fine with him.
“Really?” she said, looking up and meeting his gaze. “And what would your punishment be?”
Wild thoughts about taking her again, not just in this bed, but wherever they found themselves alone, bombarded his mind. Kenzie had been affectionate and active in his bed; to the core of his very soul, he believed that she would enjoy whatever he proposed. “Would ye like to find out?”
The glide of her hand drifted down his abdomen and settled against his already hardening cock. She slid a finger down its length, and he clenched his jaw, wanting her to wrap her fingers about his girth and stroke.
“I would,” she said, doing what he wanted. Could this lass read his mind?
Ben rolled her onto her back, kissing her deeply, before showing her exactly what happened to twenty-first-century-women-who-teased-Highland-lords.
…
Kenzie woke up with a start, the sun’s bright rays slicing into the room through the windows that housed multiple panes of square glass. She sat up, feeling Ben’s gaze on her without even looking at him. Not that she wasn’t aware of his lovely, pleasing, sprawled body beside her, because she was. Terribly aware.
“What are ye doing, lass? I hope ye don’t regret ye decision of last eve.” He rolled on to his back and stretched, reminding her of a well-satisfied cat. She lost herself in the sight of him, the memory of what he’d done to her, more than once the night before, making her blush.
“I had a nightmare.” One that she couldn’t tell Ben about for it was about him and the fate that beheld him. Of faceless men who seized the castle, killing everyone with no regard and chasing down Ben, slicing him from behind, where he fell face down, his eyes sightless toward where she stood watching it all. She shivered and threw back the blankets to get out of bed.
Ben reached over, pulling her back toward him. His arm may as well have been a steel vice for her effort to remove it. He kissed her shoulder, and the delectable nerves that only he brought forth fluttered in her belly. “You’re safe, Kenzie. I’m not sure what ye dream was about, but I’ll protect ye with my own life if it comes to that. Ye have nothing to fear here when you’re with me.”
“I know I am. It was just a dream, I’ll forget it soon enough.” Liar… She snuggled up against his chest. If only she could stay situated such, life would be perfect. With the animal skins surrounding them and the hard planes of muscle that held her close, Kenzie fought not to feel more than she ought toward the Highlander. She was here to find out and possibly stop who threatened his life. To learn all she could about Castle Ross’s layout for the restoration that awaited her in her time. And to perhaps have a lot of hot sex in-between. Nothing more.
Yeah right. I am delusional if I think that is all I am here for.
Sleeping together was a mistake, there was no doubt about that, but emotions and feelings couldn’t be allowed to grow. No deep, gut-wrenching ones that broke your heart when something bad happened. They could be friends only. Friends with benefits.
“Why did ye travel here? Really?” His tone was serious, and she wondered if he suspected her of anything.
Kenzie had two choices, tell him the truth or half-truth. She opted for the latter. “To be with you before I return home. I want to get to know more about you, your son, and your home. Your life here at Castle Ross. If you’ll allow me to stay that is.”
He mulled over her words before he met her gaze. “I’m glad ye came, and I’m only too willing to let ye warm my bed for the weeks that you’ll be here.”
“You don’t mind me coming uninvited? Halfway here, I wasn’t sure if it was the best plan. And with your child still being a baby, I didn’t want to be a burden.”
“You’ve already improved my sleeping arrangements.” He kissed her quickly before rolling off the bed and walking over to the fire, standing before it as naked as the day he was born. Man, his butt is nice. “And I want ye to meet Alasdair. I’ve not been home long myself, and I’m amazed at how grown he is.”
Kenzie followed him to the fire and wrapped her arms about his waist from behind. “You sounded sad when you said that. Are ye worried about having spent so much time away from Alasdair when he was only a few weeks old?” It was a reasonable assumption. Not that Kenzie would ever have done such a thing, but she wasn’t Ben. He’d just lost his wife during what should’ve been one of the happiest times of his life. It was no wonder he ran away and sought to forget all his problems. People handled situations differently, and she needed to remember that.”
“He has forgotten me, but I intend to remedy that. I’ll soon have him knowing exactly who his father is and who loves him most in the world.”
Kenzie squeezed him a little harder. “I know you will and he’s a baby. He’ll soon know you again.” She looked up at him. “Will you let me meet him?”
Ben turned and wrapped his arms about her, his dark, unruly hair making him seem more rugged and untamed than ever before. But it didn’t matter how dangerous he looked, under his armor the man had a heart of gold. One that worried his boy had forgotten him and no longer needed his father, just the servants who’d taken care of him.
“Of course, ye can, lass. I’ll introduce ye after we break our fast.”