To Conquer a Scot (A Time Traveler’s Highland Love) Read online

  His back tensed beneath her hands, the muscles flexing with every thrust. A mirror above them would be perfect right at this moment. He would look so hot reflected in that way, demanding delicious things from her body.

  His lips took hers in a searing kiss, and she lost all thought. All she was left with was an overwhelming feeling of rightness. Shivers rocked her body, her core thrumming with the promise of a fantastic orgasm that was building within her with every stroke.

  Abby sighed as his thrusts increased, his hands clasping her ass and pulling her higher against him. He was so deep, pushing against that special spot inside that so few men had ever reached. Her fingers scored down his back, holding him to her with a desperation that scared her.

  “Don’t stop what you’re doing.” Her body trembled with the first shocks of her orgasm and she moaned. “Aedan, keep going.”

  He did, kissing her deeply, matching his tongue’s movements to that of his cock. And then there was no control, he took her with little regard, demanding that she, too, reach the completion he was so close to.

  And she did. She broke the kiss as her orgasm tore through her. For a moment, Abby couldn’t breathe, so powerful were the tremors that took her breath away.

  Aedan continued to take her, her body wrapped around him like a second skin, before he pulled out and emptied himself against her mons, the action making her jump, her body still so sensitive from their love-making.

  He came to lay beside her, pulling her against his chest, his hand idly stroking her back as their breathing slowly returned to normal. “Are ye alright, lass? I wasn’t too rough, I hope.”

  She smiled against his chest, kissing a little mole that sat in the middle of his breastbone. “Not at all. I feel quite sated.”

  ...

  He chuckled and jumped from the bed. She squealed as he picked her up and walked over to the bathtub, stepping in and sitting down with her on his lap. The water was tepid, but with the fire roaring in the grate it was far from cold.

  Aedan searched beside his legs, before he found the soap he was looking for. He lathered it between his hands and then began to wash Abigail. With the friction of the soap and water, her body felt like silk, all smooth lines and his to relish.

  His hand captured a breast, making sure to wash them well. Her head rested on his shoulder, her breathing more heavy with every minute that passed.

  “You’re so beautiful. I don’t think I’ve ever seen skin as unblemished as yours.”

  She turned to face him, resting her chin atop his chest. “You know, when you’re not going on about what constitutes the perfect wife and are instead enjoying yourself, you’re quite likeable.” She chuckled, and he basked in the honest sound of it. His feet tangled with hers, their bodies sliding against each other in unvoiced need. He bit back a groan as she pushed against his swollen manhood.

  “I’m glad ye think so, lass. And I must declare, when you’re not arguing every point I make, you’re less vile yourself.”

  She flicked water on his face, and he pulled her up to straddle him. Her eyes widened when he slid against her core, teasing them both for what was to come. She tipped up his face with a finger and caught his gaze. “What we’re doing here changes nothing. You know I can’t stay, don’t you?”

  “Aye, I do.”

  “And you’re all right with that? I mean, doesn’t it go against your principles to be with a woman and not marry her?”

  Sliding his hand up her back, he pulled her close. “You’re not like all women. And secondly, I’ve been with plenty of women before and not married them.” She studied him for a moment, her features not giving anything away. He didn’t want to delve into the reason he wanted to know every thought she possessed, her ideals and beliefs. Or why the thought of her leaving left him a little panicked.

  “I’m portraying a guest of yours, so this will have to remain a secret. No one can know what we’re doing together.”

  He grinned. “Are ye saying this is going to continue?” Hell, he hoped so. Just the thought of stolen moments with this lass set his blood to burn. The castle had a lot of different places built for such trysts. She’d never be safe from him.

  “I hope it does.” Her teeth bit her bottom lip, and he stifled a groan. He pushed against her, her hands threading at his nape. “I think I could get used to this type of pleasure quite quickly,” she said.

  Lifting her, he guided her upon him. She fit him perfectly, her body clamping around him like a vise. They both moaned as he took her mouth in a powerful kiss, their tongues mimicking their bodies. He helped her to ride him hard and deep, not allowing either of them the time to breathe.

  She pulled at his hair, her fingers scoring his skull, and he loved it. She leaned over him in the tub, riding him, taking his mouth as she pleased. He lost himself in her golden brown eyes; eyes that pulled him into her soul and beckoned him to stay there forever. Heat rushed to his groin and pleasure exploded between them as she rode him to orgasm, taking her pleasure without reserve.

  He panted, his breaths coming in quick succession and still he hadn’t had enough of her. The word “trouble” floated through his mind, and he smiled.

  If Abigail Cross was trouble, then he was going to get himself into a lot of it.

  Chapter Twelve

  Abby didn’t think watching men throw a tree trunk could be so alluring, and yet, seeing Aedan’s muscles flex, the strain on his body, reminded her of the night before. Of him above her, enjoying her as much as she’d savored him.

  She sighed and received a curious look from Gwen. She smiled, not wanting to tell anyone of their affair. Wanting to keep the dirty, delicious little secret all to herself. She may be stuck in medieval Scotland, but she was definitely having a little fun while here. And last night had been very amusing, lots of times.

  In the small hours of the morning, they’d agreed their affair was just a little entertainment, a way in which two people who found themselves attracted to one another could relieve some stress, enjoy each other’s company. Have lots of hot sex.

  This type of relationship would at least make what little time she had left here easier to bear. With the implant in her arm, she was covered from getting pregnant, and although there weren’t any condoms available to use, Aedan had assured her he had no illness. It was a risk, and one she wouldn’t normally take, but with Aedan, all bets were off. She may go to hell for it, but she wanted him. Her attraction wasn’t going to be denied any longer, and all she could hope was that he was as healthy as he seemed.

  Gwen sidled up next to her and sat. “You’re happy today. Do tell me the Highlands have finally wrapped around ye soul and held ye captive.”

  Only the Highlander on the field, laughing and taking pleasure in the competition, was holding her captive. “I must admit I am having a good time. I may even thank you for it one day.”

  Gwen laughed. “And I’ll gladly say you’re welcome.”

  Another competitor took the wooden pole and started to jiggle it in his arms, trying to find a comfortable position to throw it from. When he did cast it out in front of him, it was a long way off the distance Aedan had reached.

  “Your brother seems to be winning this event.” Abby looked at the men to follow the last competitor. All were brawny, muscular types, but they lacked Aedan’s height, his large broad shoulders, and strong thighs. Or maybe she was biased now… Either way, Aedan would surely win.

  “Yes, and so he’ll have to steal a kiss from a willing lady.”

  Abby frowned, having forgotten what the prize was. Excitement thrummed in her veins that Aedan might touch her again. That she’d get to feel those soft, sinfully addictive lips once more. Last night seemed so many hours ago. “What if the lady doesn’t wish to kiss the winner?”

  “She’ll either give him her hand or cheek and it’ll be over.” Gwen grinned. “We’ll have to wait and see.”

  The remainder of the competitors finished their throws. Black Ben came to sit with them as
Aedan was announced the winner.

  “Now we’ll see who Aedan has taken a liking to,” Ben said, smiling at Abby, which made her wonder if he knew of their hook-up.

  Abby nodded, feeling a little queasy that the time had come for him to choose. And what if it wasn’t her? “Who do you think he’ll pick?” She couldn’t help but ask, and even though she knew she shouldn’t care, she did. Aedan kissing anyone but her left an awful simmering anger in the pit of her gut. She pushed away the thought that she was jealous. She was definitely not that. They had agreed their liaison was to be of a short duration due to her going home. No emotions. Just sex.

  “I’m not sure. I’ve seen ye two whispering in dark corners a lot, maybe it’ll be you.” Gwen grinned and looked back toward the field. Abby didn’t think it would be her, even though a little part of her hoped it was. Clansmen slapped his shoulder, others yelling and lifting goblets of mead in celebration that the day’s events were over.

  Aedan walked toward where they sat, an array of clan members looking on with interest. He looked over the crowd and her stomach fluttered. But instead of coming to her, he bowed before Aline. The young woman stood, staring up at him with awe, and Abby went from hope to devastation in an instant. Watching what was about to take place was like a slow motion horror film. She was a deer before headlights, mesmerized by the sight of something that could kill her…figuratively speaking.

  He leaned down and kissed her quickly on the cheek, but true to her character, Aline wasn’t content with such mediocre affection. She jumped into his embrace, hands wrapping about his neck, and took the kiss to a whole new level.

  The clansmen shouted out, making bawdy remarks and Abby stood, having seen enough. “It’s been a long day, Gwen. I’m going to head up to my room before dinner.” Out of her peripheral vision she could see the kiss had ended and Aedan was walking Aline toward her father.

  “Are ye alright? You’re not feeling ill, I hope.”

  “No.” She shook her head. “I’m fine. Just tired, I think. I’ll see you in the hall later.”

  Abby threaded her way through the crowd and made her way up to the castle as quickly as she could. She blamed the lump in her throat on a forthcoming cold. It certainly wasn’t from seeing the man who’d left her bed only hours before, kissing another woman.

  Well, he wouldn’t be sharing her bed again, that’s for sure.

  ...

  “So, is ye plan working then, lass?”

  Ben watched with amusement as Gwen turned toward him and smiled smugly. “I do believe Abigail Cross is as jealous and green as the grass. Did ye see the devastation on her face the moment Aedan kissed Aline? My plan is working out perfectly.”

  Ben chuckled, shaking his head. “So the lass has agreed to stay?”

  Gwen squirmed on her seat, a slight blush on her face. “No, I haven’t had that assurance from her as yet, but I shall. Why, she’s half in love with my brother already.”

  Ben watched Abigail storm back toward the castle, a proud tilt to her chin. “If Aedan keeps kissing other lasses like that, I doubt you’ll see any wedding other than Aline’s take place. She’s a minx.”

  Gwen sighed. “Aline is definitely a problem. She needs a husband but has, for whatever reason, fixated on Aedan. If only she had someone else to occupy her time.”

  A cold chill swept up Ben’s spine. The heat of Gwen’s gaze burned up the side of his neck, and he refused to meet her gaze. “Perhaps,” is all he managed as a reply.

  She clasped his arm. “Look at me, Ben.”

  He fought the pull of her beautiful features as long as he could, before, like when they were kids, he was unable to deny her anything. “No.”

  She smiled, laughing up at him. “Please, dearest. You’re perfect for the position. Just think of all the fun ye could have.”

  “No.” He clenched his jaw, refusing to do her bidding. Seduce a maiden. By God, he was a man, but not an idiot. “I won’t do it.”

  “Just kiss her, then. Ravish her to the point that she’ll forget about my brother.”

  “My ravishing didn’t make you forget Braxton.” The moment the words were torn from his mouth he wished them back. She paled and pulled back. Damn it. “Forgive me, Gwen. I dinna mean…” his words trailed off when nothing witty or defusing came to mind.

  “We would not suit, Ben, whereas Braxton and I have an understanding.”

  He nodded, clenching his jaw at the thought of Gwen marrying a man so worthy of her it made his temper fire. If only Braxton was corrupt in some way, abusive, anything that would give reason to kiss her again and steal her away from him. But he was not. He was as good as men got.

  “Just kiss her, ye say?” Her eyes lit up with joy, and he knew he’d never be able to deny her anything. “Nothing else?”

  “Nay, nothing. Just show her what it is that beckons her to others. Show her that Aedan isn’t all there is to sample and enjoy.”

  Ben cursed, but nodded. “Aye, I will. Mayhap my kisses will affect her more than you. She could be my grand match.”

  Gwen laughed, kissing his cheek quickly, leaving a trail of heat that shot to his chest. “I wish you all the best. Thank you, my friend. I’m forever in your debt.”

  He stood, needing some distance from her. “No, you’re not. I’ll do this out of friendship.” And love…

  ...

  Later that night, Abby paced her room, counting down the minutes until she headed downstairs. Her stomach rumbled, reminding her, yet again, she was starving. She hadn’t eaten much at lunch, and then seeing Aedan kiss someone else had turned her off food altogether, but now…now she was pissed.

  How dare he?

  A knock sounded on her door, and she opened it to find Gwen standing there. “Are ye ready?”

  “Yes.” They walked down to the great hall in relative silence, and Abby wondered where Aedan’s new favorite lass, Aline, would be seated, probably on his lap, knowing the forward little chit. Although, after what she’d done with him the night before, she hardly had the right to call Aline forward.

  If anything, Abby had been the one who’d crossed the line. She should never have slept with him. He was a product of his time and she should’ve remembered that, before getting involved. A man who took pleasure when and where he could, before moving on without a backward glance.

  She stopped mid-step and Gwen halted a little way ahead, looking back at her with concern. “Are ye alright, Abigail?”

  Abby nodded, but she wasn’t all right. She was jealous. Not bunny-boiling-mad-jealous like Glen Close in Fatal Attraction, but still jealous of anyone who dared get close enough to Aedan and kiss him.

  The emotion wasn’t welcome. For crying out loud, she was a modern, twenty-first century woman. A future museum curator, a smart, educated woman and damn it, she couldn’t allow herself to develop feelings for this man. Perhaps, if she’d been more liberated with her sexual exploits and had indulged in a few one-night stands, this complicated situation with the laird might be more simple.

  But the truth of the matter was she’d always been in relationships with the men she slept with. As modern as she was, sex wasn’t just sex for her. It meant something. Even if that something was minimal. But in Aedan’s case, it didn’t seem like his emotions were engaged at all.

  Shit!

  Rallying herself, they continued on into the bustling hall, some clansmen already well on their way to being blind drunk. Normally, the sight would make her laugh. After all, she wasn’t a prude, it was good to let your hair down every now and then, but tonight wasn’t one of those nights.

  Tonight, she was annoyed with Aedan and herself. Everything people did aggravated her more than it should. She didn’t want to be rude, and she knew her face sported an unwelcoming glower, no matter how much she wanted to snap out of the temper the kiss between Aline and Aedan had caused. She liked the blasted laird more than was safe.

  Aedan sat at the dais, Black Ben seated to his right, both of them eating and
laughing at something Aline had said, who was, predictably, seated to Aedan’s left.

  He had to choose a wife, so why not Aline? It was never going to be Abigail, no matter how much she feared she wanted him. If only she’d been born in a different time, then perhaps, she could be his wife.

  The ache in her chest told the truth, that seeing Aedan with another hurt like hell. At that moment, she regretted sleeping with him, allowing herself to get close enough to care.

  Damn it.

  “You’re sitting here with me tonight,” Gwen said, motioning to a table on the hall floor. Abby sat and thanked a young serving girl who ladled out some broth, another pouring her wine. As much as the food smelled delicious, the wine sweet and refreshing, it all turned to sawdust in her mouth. She didn’t like that her and Aedan’s time together was a secret and had to remain so. Abby wanted to stand and shout from the rooftops that he was hers and no one else’s.

  A ridiculous, fanciful idea that she dismissed.

  She clasped the table to stop herself from doing anything stupid. Aedan had been truthful from the beginning about what he wanted, what his clan needed. And so, too, had she been honest, stating that no matter what they did it wouldn’t change anything. Never had he included her in the long-term and vice versa.

  She ate with haste, hoping to finish dinner quickly. Abby conversed as much as she could with a clansman from Clan Ross. He was an older gentleman, and had many a tale about his laird, Black Ben. Abby listened, finding the conversation a good distraction from what was taking place up on the dais, where laugher rang out with nearly every breath they seemed to take.

  When the older gentleman rose and walked out the castle doors, Abby took the opportunity to leave. There was no way in hell she could put herself through this torture any longer.

  She stood and made the mistake of looking toward Aedan. Dark hooded eyes watched her, a cup of ale loosely held in one hand while Aline and Black Ben spoke to each other around him. His gaze was intense, heavy with desire, and she frowned.

  What is he doing to me?