The Taste of Love

by Platt, Meara

  He noticed Loopy’s own eyes begin to glisten.

  “Lass, that’s what I hope ye see when ye look at me. Perhaps in time, ye’ll come to feel this way about me. I know I’m no prize.”

  “Thad,” she whispered with an ache to her voice. “I’m so sorry I was ever cruel to you. You are the best. I never meant for you to think otherwise. I’m the one with the Harpy tongue. How can you possibly care for me?”

  He ran a hand through his hair, uncertain how to answer. Perhaps the best way was to show her. “My regiment will be here for one more day. We have the dinner party tonight, so I doubt you and I will have much time to speak quietly. But I’d like ye to meet me by the pond after breakfast tomorrow. Bring The Book of Love with ye.”

  She tipped her head in confusion. “What are you going to show me that I haven’t already learned from this book?”

  He reached out and ran his thumb gently across her lower lip. “Och, lass,” he said in a ragged whisper, “I think it’s time ye learned about my heart.”

  *

  To Penelope’s relief, Thad returned to Sherbourne Manor without protest after washing down his scones. His men were well settled and receiving the best care. The Earl of Caithness, Malcolm, and Robbie were there to attend to any regimental issues, and the Sherbourne and Gosling staffs were busy attending to all other matters. “I’ve asked Dr. Carmichael to look in on you once he’s finished with the injured.”

  “It is no’–”

  “He’s going to tend to you for my peace of mind,” she insisted. Although he tried to hide it, she saw that he had a slight limp and he couldn’t seem to move his left arm without difficulty, which was not surprising since the impact had pushed it out of its socket just yesterday. She accompanied him into the house and upstairs. “We haven’t moved you out of my bedchamber. I’ll be cuddling with Periwinkle for another night.”

  “Lass, I’m sorry. It isn’t necessary. Our tents are set up. I can sleep in one of them by the stream. It is no hardship for me.”

  “You have a long ride ahead of you, Thad. Let Dr. Carmichael examine your wounds to be certain there isn’t something more to worry about. I need to know you’ll heal. After all, you were injured because of me. I’ll never forgive myself if I’ve done you permanent harm.”

  He frowned. “It wasn’t yer fault. I don’t ever want to hear ye casting blame on yerself. If ye must cast blame on someone…or something…then do it on that damn garden snake or skittish colt. Blessed saints! I would no’ ever forgive myself if you had come to harm.”

  They reached her bedchamber, and she would have marched in along with him had he not stopped in the doorway to block her. “This is as far as ye go, lass. Do ye need anything from in here?”

  You.

  Of course, suggesting such a thing was out of the question. “No, I’m fine for now. Greville will help you out of your clothes. I’ll have a tub brought up. Soak in the hot water for a while. I think it will help to relax your stiff muscles.”

  His gaze upon her softened. “I’ll do that, lass.”

  Oh, goodness. He had a way of looking at her that was at once tender and steamy. She cleared her throat. Fiery, too.

  The butterflies in her stomach were in their usual fluttering frenzy.

  “I’ll stop by later,” she said in a breathless whisper and hurried away to order his bath and seek out Greville. Thad would never be able to pull off his boots by himself, but he was stubborn enough to try and further damage his shoulder.

  After finishing those small errands, she intended to return to the regimental camp, but paused when she noticed Malcolm and Anne in each other’s arms in a corner of the parlor. What was it they saw in each other?

  When Malcolm drew away and returned to the camp, Penelope took the opportunity to approach Anne.

  “Good afternoon, Penelope. Is something amiss?” The girl glowed, there was no other way to explain the light in her eyes and happiness in her expression. “Other than my cautious brother being furious with my decision?”

  “Captain MacLauren,” Penelope said, referring to Thad, “thinks quite highly of his cousin. But I must admit to being as surprised as your brother. What made you accept a man you’ve known for less than a day?”

  They settled on the settee, Anne obviously eager to speak her mind. Thad had given his opinion earlier, but Penelope was curious and wanted it confirmed by Anne.

  Anne placed a hand over her heart. “I’m not certain I can explain this feeling. Yes, we’ve only just met, and there’s no denying there’s a physical aspect to his appeal,” she said with a blush. “He’s big and muscled, and his scent is divine. And who can resist that deep, rumbling brogue? Besides being handsome as sin, he’s kind and protective. Most important, I trust him. Even though we’ve only known each other a very short time, I feel as though I’ve known him forever. I suppose that makes no sense.”

  “Coming to this conclusion within a matter of hours doesn’t, but when does one’s heart ever follow a sensible course?” She debated whether to confide in Anne about The Book of Love, and ultimately decided against it. First, Anne seemed instinctively to understand about the five senses, having described the look, scent, and sound of Malcolm as reasons for her attraction. Of course, there was no doubt she’d also enjoyed his touch and the taste of his kiss. “Anne, do you have no qualms about leaving your family?”

  “I’ve been trained to take over the role of lady of the manor since birth. I expect you have been as well.” Her effervescent smile dimmed a little. “But yes, leaving my loved ones is the only thing to dampen my joy. Malcolm has already told me that my mother may live with us if that is my wish. He has great respect for the elders. How can I not love such a man?”

  Penelope sighed, realizing she was the dense one. “Does it not trouble you that you’ll be living in the Highlands?” Indeed, Caithness was considered far north even for a Highlander.

  “Far from the London whirl?” She shook her head and smiled. “I’ve never appreciated the assemblies, balls, and other elegant entertainments offered in town. My brother enjoys this fast life, but I never have. Living in the Highlands will be no sacrifice for me.”

  “I see. Do you mind if we speak of your brother?”

  “What is it you wish to know about Thomas? He’s been very good to me and my mother.”

  Penelope nodded. “He reminds me of my own brother. Nathaniel has always been a family man, quite protective of those he loves. He’s serious about his duties and obligations. My impression is your brother is the same.”

  Anne shook her head and laughed. “Oh, Thomas is not usually so serious. Of course, he’s attentive to his duties and quite honorable. But he’s been on his best behavior around you. He’s hardly the saint he’d like you to believe. At university, he earned the name of Wicked Wycke, although I don’t believe he was ever truly wicked.”

  Penelope was surprised, for Thomas Halford hadn’t come across as anything other than kind and sincere.

  “He’s a good man,” Anne assured her. “But he’s suddenly got it into his head that he must marry before the Season is out.”

  “Why?”

  “Who’s to say? Perhaps my mother’s pleas finally wore him down. Perhaps he simply felt it was time to move forward.”

  What Anne did not say was most important. She did not say that he’d met the woman of his dreams. Wycke’s heart was not the motivation for his decision. Penelope ought to have been devastated, or at the least, overset. She was neither, simply relieved. “Thank you, Anne. I appreciate our little talk.”

  “Me, too.” She cast Penelope a gracious smile, but caught her hand before she had the chance to move away. “Penelope, you have been most kind to me and my family. So please do not take offense at what I am about to say.”

  “Go on. I’m listening.” She suddenly wondered whether she’d underestimated Wycke’s sister. That she was shy and quiet did not mean she was dull-witted. Poppy was similarly reserved, but she was the smartest of all
of them.

  “You know the way I look at Malcolm. Indeed, it’s shocked quite everyone, except for Malcolm and me.”

  Penelope nodded.

  “This is the way I hope my brother will feel about the woman he’ll marry. Completely besotted and heart soaring whenever she is near. As important, it is the way I wish his betrothed to feel about him. However, I don’t sense anything like this in either my brother or you. All I see between the pair of you is level-headed reason. Respect and friendship, yes. Shouldn’t there be something more?” She took a deep breath and continued. “I have the utmost regard for you, Penelope. I wish you and Thomas were a match, but I don’t see how you are.”

  “It is something I’ve given serious thought to, as well.” After assuring Anne she had not taken offense, Penelope left her to go in search of Dr. Carmichael. She wanted to make certain he hadn’t forgotten to stop by her bedchamber to examine Thad before returning to his infirmary.

  Wycke called to her as she left the house through the music room doors and started across the garden along the back path to Gosling Hall. Normally, she would have gone out the front door and crossed the meadow separating the two stately houses, but taking this route toward the back gate was the quickest way to the stream where the soldiers were camped.

  “Is there something I can do for you, my lord? I wish to make certain the doctor doesn’t leave before looking in on Captain MacLauren.”

  He gave a wry laugh. “My sister is about to elope to the Highlands with a complete stranger and,” he cast her a look up and down, “the woman I hope to marry seems about to do the same.”

  He appeared more confused than hurt or unhappy.

  She sighed. “Lord Wycke, I–”

  “Please call me Thomas. May I call you Penelope? It may seem foolish to you since I sense you are about to turn me down for Captain MacLauren.”

  “Not at all foolish. I hope we shall become good friends.” She blushed lightly. “We would be family if your sister marries Malcolm MacLauren and I…” Her voice trailed off. She couldn’t quite bring herself to admit she would marry Thad.

  She had no doubt of her affection for the big Scot, of course. Hadn’t she always loved him? Only now, it had matured into something deep and abiding. These feeling threatened to swallow her whole. He’d claimed her heart. He’d claimed all of her, body and soul. What she did not yet trust was Thad’s feelings for her.

  Yes, he loved her.

  But was it in the same soul-searing way she loved him? He did seem to want physical contact with her. But he’d never properly courted her, merely blurted to his kinsmen that she was the one for him when his back was up against the wall. So, was he now convincing himself he’d made the right decision? Willing himself to feel more than he did?

  “Penelope, I wish you every happiness. But I hope you will decide to find that happiness with me.” She was surprised and jolted out of her thoughts when Thomas took her into his arms and gave her a hug. “My family and I will leave tomorrow. I know the regiment leaves the day after that, but I’m eager to separate Anne from Malcolm before something dire happens. I must douse that fire before it burns out of control. However, I wish to thank you sincerely for your hospitality.”

  “They are a combustible pair, aren’t they?” Penelope laughed. “Anne’s greatest wish is that you find the girl who sets your heart afire like that.”

  “Perhaps if I were young and foolish, I might act impulsively. But in my position, how can I risk it? Besides, these intense fires quickly die out. No, I’d much rather keep my eyes open and head clear. I know quality when I see it and you are that. Give me a chance to prove that you and I are a good fit.” He gave her another quick embrace before returning to the house.

  Penelope continued to Gosling Hall, her mind in even more of a whirl. Lord Wycke’s comments made sense. Even The Book of Love spoke of the different stages of love. A mature love was one that would last. Once the burning desire died out, something deeper and more meaningful had to replace it or else the husband and wife were left with nothing but ashes.

  Still, didn’t the couple have to start out with some interest to bind them together? If she refused Wycke’s suit, would his heart break?

  She doubted it.

  As she crossed the garden, she glanced back and looked up toward her bedchamber window, merely wondering what Thad was doing now. Her heart gave a little hitch. He was standing by the window, wearing no shirt as he looked down on her.

  Her heart hitched again.

  She tried to avert her gaze, but couldn’t.

  Where was his shirt? Could that big, Scottish oaf not find one to wear? And why was he staring at her with his arms crossed and frowning? With his bad arm, didn’t that hurt?

  Oh, dear!

  Had he mistaken the reason for Wycke’s embrace?

  How much had he seen?

  And was it too much to ask for him to put on clothes if he was going to stand there and scowl at her?

  More important, did he not trust her?

  How could he claim to love her if he had no faith in her?

  Chapter Twelve

  “This is not at all proper,” Dr. Carmichael muttered when Penelope insisted on accompanying him to her bedchamber now occupied by Thad who, she hoped, had put on clothes by now.

  Not that she would have minded seeing more of him, but not in the doctor’s presence.

  “It is my bedchamber. You and my brother’s valet, Greville, will be present to vouch that nothing untoward happens. Please do not attempt to stop me, Doctor. I need to see the damage to his shoulder for myself because Captain MacLauren will lie to me and tell me he’s fine when I know he isn’t.”

  “I could simply report my findings to you after I’ve examined him.”

  “It won’t do.” She tipped her head up and cast him an indignant look. “You know he needs to be scolded into taking care of himself. I can do this better than anyone. Why do you think he calls me a Harpy? We must stop him from doing something foolish, which he’ll certainly do unless he’s made to rest. How else will he properly heal?”

  The doctor ran a hand roughly across the nape of his neck. “I still don’t think it’s wise.”

  What a bother. She’d forgotten Angus Carmichael was a stubborn Scot himself. Were they all hardheaded louts? “I’ve been duly warned and scolded. I’m still going in.”

  She was also the sister of the present earl and knew the doctor was not going to challenge her authority in her own home. He frowned at her when they reached her bedchamber door, his obvious displeasure a final attempt to have her see reason and not barge in on Thad.

  When he realized he couldn’t shake her determination, he sighed and knocked on the door. “Captain MacLauren, you have company. May we come in?”

  Greville opened the door, his eyes bulging when Penelope strode in behind the doctor. “Lady Penelope! His lordship is undressed.”

  Thad was seated on the bed, wearing nothing but a towel loosely tucked around his waist, his rock-hard muscles on display. “Bollocks, lass! Ye canno’ be in here.” He rose, no doubt intending to bodily push her out, and then realized he had nothing on under his towel, so he turned to look for something to put on.

  That’s when she saw the extent of the damage to his back and shoulder. “Thad!”

  He realized where she’d been looking and groaned. “Dinna make too much of it.”

  Her hands fisted. “You deserve a good smack about the head, you big ox.”

  “What did I do now?”

  “Your entire back is black and blue. Your skin is torn where Monarch’s hooves fell on you.” She shot him an accusatory glower. “You should have remained in bed all day to heal. What possessed you to ride out? There were others able to collect your regiment and bring them to Sherbourne Manor. You’re fortunate you didn’t fall off your horse. How could you be so reckless? Knowing your injuries?”

  She wanted to cry, for he had to be in agonizing pain. “Oh, Thad. Sit down and let the doctor
tend to your wounds.” She turned to Dr. Carmichael. “What can I do to help?”

  “Leave,” he and Thad said at once.

  She ignored them. “Besides that.”

  She turned to Thad again. In truth, she couldn’t stop looking at him. He was big and beautifully muscled, so magnificently sculpted against his warm skin. She made the mistake of touching him. Instantly, her heart began to flutter and her legs turned to butter.

  She wanted to kiss her way up and down his body.

  Taste him.

  She shook out of the enticing notion, but did not remove her gaze from him. His shoulders were broad and his stomach was finely honed and lean. Everything about him exuded power and strength. His legs were long and nicely shaped from what she could see of them, for the towel covered them to his knees.

  But the rest of him from the waist up was open to her view, and she was soaking all of him in.

  Blessed Mother.

  Who suddenly turned up the heat in here?

  It felt like a thousand fires blazing.

  But there wasn’t so much as a twig lit in the hearth.

  She tore her gaze from his body and studied his face. His hair was wet from his recent bath and brushed off his brow. No doubt, he’d run his fingers casually through that thick mane of his to put some order to it.

  His skin was a sun-kissed golden and he smelled like sandalwood soap.

  Lord, lord, lord. Did a finer looking man exist?

  “Och, lass. Will ye no’ go away?” Thad scowled at her when she sat beside him on the bed.

  “No, I will not. I wish to hear what Dr. Carmichael tells you.” She turned to the doctor who appeared decidedly uncomfortable, as did Greville. Perhaps she should not have plunked herself down on the counterpane beside Thad, seeing as he was clutching the ends of his towel to make certain it did not slip off him. “I will not have you lie to me and tell me all is fine when I can see that it isn’t.”