The Highlander's Choice Read Free Page A

in bed. She would be lucky if she didn’t catch a chill after this debacle.
    They emerged from the wooded area surrounding the castle, and her spirits rose when the stable came into view. Sybil leaned forward, anxious now to be away from Liam and his enveloping warmth.
    “Easy, lass. We’re almost there, and ye don’t want to slip again.” His deep voice rolled over her, making her even more anxious to leave his presence. She didn’t like the way he made her feel, and had no intention of examining why that was. They reached the stable, and she sighed with relief as he swung his leg over and dropped to the ground.
    Without a word, he encircled her waist and pulled her off the horse. She rested her palms on his shoulders as he lifted her down, his muscles rippling under her hands as he moved his arms. Her mouth dried up, and her heart did a double beat as her eyes connected with his. His eyes grew wide, and he appeared as startled as she.
    Good heavens, the last thing I want is to feel an attraction to a whiskey swilling, brawling, lustful Scot.

Chapter Two
    The next morning Sybil entered the great hall for breakfast where one of the maids had directed her. The room was quite large, with an immense fireplace against one wall. Colorful and well maintained tapestries hung on the walls, blocking out the fierce Scotland winds. A small fire burned brightly, warming the area directly in front of it, where Lord Somerville, Duncan, and Liam sat breaking their fast. All three rose as she approached the long table.
    “A surprise, my lady. I thought the ladies would all be abed this morning.” Duncan pulled out a chair for her.
    “I enjoy morning very much. Once the sun is up, I am unable to stay asleep.” She took the platters passed to her from the men and filled her plate with eggs, sausage, some type of bread that resembled a scone, and cheese. She passed on the items she didn’t recognize.
    “I’m happy to see ye haven’t had to take to yer bed with the ague,” Liam said.
    “Not at all. I can assure you I have a strong constitution, sir.” She picked up her fork and regarded him. “What do I call you? My laird? My lord?”
    He sat back and grinned at her. “Liam will do nicely.” He eyed her plate. “Surely ye want some black pudding and porridge. And perhaps some haggis?” Liam’s eyes danced with mirth. Did the man do nothing but tease?
    “Thank you, but I have never tried haggis or black pudding, and porridge is not one of my favorite dishes.”
    “Ach, you must try it at least,” Liam said, cutting a piece of the pudding and plopping it rudely onto her plate. The challenge in his eyes had her stiffening her shoulders. Whatever game the man was playing did not amuse her. Somehow she felt he was testing her mettle and was waiting for her to snap at him again, which he seemed to be expecting.
    Conjuring up her sweetest smile, she cut a small piece of the pudding and put it into her mouth. The strong taste was not unpleasant. She tried another bite and found she actually liked it. “Very good.”
    Liam looked nonplussed at her, which made her grin. The man really was baiting her, and she’d disappointed him. This visit might be quite fun, after all. There was nothing she enjoyed more than sparring with a worthy opponent, and she believed Laird MacBride was indeed a laudable adversary. Even though he was a Scot.
    The exchange made her ache once again for her twin. They’d had so many giggles over the years that perhaps matching swords with Liam could distract her.
    “Once Lady Margaret and Lady Somerville are up and about, I thought we might take a ride into the village and visit the stores. I know ladies like to shop,” Duncan said.
    “And mayhaps we can take luncheon at the Maydenhead Inn.” Liam added as he settled his napkin alongside his plate.
    Sybil choked on the sausage she was eating, causing Liam to tap her between her shoulders. Maidenhead Inn? Leave it to the barbaric Scots to name an inn