Page 57 of Awakened By Time

“Where are we going?”

“To Dougall’s. I can clean yer wound for ye and get ye some clean clothes.” For a man who was injured, she thought he certainly seemed happy.

“So, what did you think?”

“What do ye mean?”

“What did you think about the practice?”

“Hamish is much bigger than ye.”

“Hamish is much bigger than everyone.”

She laughed at this and then sobering said. “Ye fought well.”

“Thanks. When I get back home, I’ll have so much to share with my students.”

“Yer a teacher?”

“Well, sort of. I own and run the studio, but I also teach people how to fight. Men, women, children.”

“Could ye teach me to fight?” she asked.

“Sure. If you want to learn.”

“I do.” Brenna thought this would be a good way to spend time with Zeke. “When can we start?”

“Not today,” he said, pointing at his leg, which was dripping blood.

They reached the house and Brenna opened the door, helping him inside and heading straight for the kitchen where she had him sit. She got some clean linen and put some water on to boil. In the meantime, she wet one of the cloths and began wiping the mud from his face and neck. She was so intent on her duties, that she failed to note the way he was looking at her, but when she finally did, it took her breath away.

“I think the water may be warm enough now,” she said, backing away from him and almost falling over a chair in her path.

Zeke reached for her, saving her before she completely lost her balance. “Careful,” he said.

“Aye.”

“Lucky for me I wore a kilt today.” He lifted it, exposing the cut on his thigh. “I think it looks worse than it actually is.”

Brenna was frozen in place, staring at his thigh, which led to other things she wasn’t sure she should see.

“Here, give me the cloth. I can wash it off.” He held out his hand.

“Nay. I will do it.” She placed the water on the floor by the chair and dipped the cloth in, wringing out the excess water. “’Tis just warm enough,” she said.

She knelt at his knee, gazing up into his handsome face.

Zeke ran his hand along her cheek as he returned her gaze. “There’s something about you, Brenna MacRae.”

“Something?”

“Something just right for me.”

If she didn’t think she’d look the fool, Brenna would have shrieked with glee at his words. Instead she smiled shyly and attempted to wash his wound. Her hands were shaking uncontrollably, but she managed to get all the mud wiped away. She examined the cut and was relieved to find that it was only slightly more than skin deep. It would heal well, but would need to be bandaged for a day or two. She took the water and linens away. “I’ll find something to bandage you with,” she said.

“I’ll be right here,” Zeke teased. “I’m not going anywhere.”

Brenna had the feeling that something was going to happen here today. She had no idea what, but the butterflies in her belly told her it would be a good thing. Returning to the kitchen, Zeke didn’t take his eyes off of her once as she opened a chest by the table, finding exactly what she’d hoped would be there. She ripped the cloth into the size she needed and then knelt at Zeke’s side once more. He hiked the kilt up further and tucked it between his legs, which Brenna was thankful for. She began wrapping the wound and each time her hand grazed his skin, she felt him twitch slightly. She continued on, now purposely touching him with each pass of the bandage. A low growl came from his throat and she glanced up to see an intent look of desire in his eyes. She finished tying off the bandage and stood. He took her hands and drew her in between his legs. Gazing down at him, Brenna could feel herself losing control. She wanted him to kiss her again, but she was impatient. Placing her hands on either side of his face, she brushed her lips gently over his. He responded by placing his hands on her waist and fully exploring her lips, as he had the first time he kissed her. She closed her eyes and let herself go. No longer worrying about her inexperience. Zeke would guide her. She was sure of it.

* * *

He wantedto be careful with Brenna, knowing she wasn’t experienced with men, but her kisses were oh, so sweet and he’d enjoyed the soft touch of her hands as she tended to him. The wound had definitely been worth it.

Zeke pulled her down onto his lap, careful to avoid his injured thigh. He was enjoying the the feel of her in his arms and wanted more. But could he go there? Was it right? In the eyes of everyone here in sixteenth century Scotland they were married. Would it be wrong to share more with her than just these delicious kisses? He’d leave it up to Brenna, but he could tell by the small satisfied sounds of delight coming from her that she just might want exactly what he did. He’d know soon enough.