First Kiss - Pendragon's Princess (Mystic Maidens of Britain Book 1)

First Kiss - Pendragon's Princess (Mystic Maidens of Britain Book 1)
Excerpt Copyright @ 2019 Kara Griffin

Rhyder sat at a long table overflowing with parchments and scrolls. Several jars of inks and quills sat in the center. He finished reading a parchment and set it upon the table before he glanced at her.

“If you’re busy, I can—”

“Nay, Katy, I’ve been waiting for you.”

She apprehensively stepped forward, and he placed his hands on her shoulders. “Where is the priest? Is it not proper for him to be here to bless the marriage bed?”

Rhyder raised one of his manly brows. “I don’t always do what’s proper.”

Katriona appreciated the sentiment. She didn’t either but now was not the time to tell him. At least that was one thing she need not worry about, being watched by others while doing her duty.

“I meant what I said…”

She raised her eyes and released her breath. “What did you say?”

“I vowed to make you happy.”

“That pleases me.” She didn’t know what else to say. He continued to hold her shoulders, and she kept her hands at her sides. Her senses forced her to close her eyes and focus on the swarm of emotions. Not only hers but his as well. Katriona hadn’t been as restless in a long time, but given what was expected of her, it was natural. His emotions confused her for she sensed the happiness of his mind, but the deep grief of his heart. Something dark and foreboding lurked in his soul.

“I am fortunate in my wife. You are beautiful, Katy.”

“As are you, Rhyder.” Those words did him no justice for he was handsome. His hair curled slightly and its color a rich sable. His face, manly with a sharp jaw and squared chin, beardless. Katriona hadn’t taken time to study him before now. She gazed at him overlong and took in his features. He stood taller than she, at least a foot higher. She felt delicate standing near him, womanly and utterly feminine. His body was muscular, but not burly and his limbs long and fit. It was then she noticed he wore no tunic and the dark symbol of a dragon etched on the left side of his chest above his heart. He wore a pair of worn brown breeches which hugged his narrowed hips.

Katriona had seen many men’s bared chests before for her father’s soldiers liked to practice arms clad only in their breeches when the weather warm. Mama often remarked at the indecency of their attire. Rhyder’s chest appeared strong and naked with very little hair. But what held her enthrall was the dragon image. She wanted to touch the etching and ask about it, but wouldn’t dare.

He lifted her chin and said, “You’re quiet. It’s best to feel and not get caught in your thoughts. I also meant what I said when I told you I didn’t want you to fear me.”

“I’m not afraid.” She stood rigid.

“You can release my arms then.” He kissed her forehead and released her shoulders. “You may leave. Goodnight.”

Katriona hadn’t realized she’d gripped his arms. She scowled at the realization and pulled away. Before she reached the door, she turned and considered her duty. Not one to back down, she returned to him. “I don’t understand why you’re sending me away.”

“You’re not ready. I will give you time to adjust.”

She gripped the tie of her robe and hoped courage came. “That is kind of you, but I insist on doing my duty. It is better to get it over with.” He chuckled and the sound lightened her. Katriona wasn’t a shrew, but she’d never had to be seductive. Ready or not, she would not shirk her duty. The thought of touching him calmed her.

“We can wait, Katy. I won’t force you.”

“You’re not forcing me. I am not afraid…it’s just…I’ve never been with a man and…this is new to me.” Katriona slid the fabric of her robe from her shoulders. She let the fabric flutter to the floor. Never in her life had she been so brazen or exposed. She stood naked before him and held her breath.

Rhyder’s chuckle died in his throat and his eyes fastened on hers. “You’re even more beautiful than I imagined. I will not rush this for I’m not of the same mind. I don’t want it to be over. Are you certain you’re ready?” He stepped closer to her but kept a few feet distance.

“Aye, I am. It’s your turn to undress. Is that not how this works?”

He flashed a grin. “It is. Very well, sweet lass.” Once his breeches were removed, they stood face to face. Neither was willing to make the first move.

Katriona’s voice shook when she asked, “Should we…kiss?”

Rhyder took her in his arms. His body was warm against hers and oddly pleasing. Katriona closed her eyes and waited for him to kiss her and tried to disregard the emotions he was emitting. After a moment, she opened her eyes and searched his face for rejection, certain he wanted nothing to do with her.

“I want you to enjoy being with me.” He pressed a light kiss on her lips, then another, and another.

Katriona pulled him close and settled her hands on his hips. She responded to the passionate way his mouth moved over hers. He groaned when she met his tongue. The kiss turned breathless, and she took a gasp of air before settling her mouth back on his. He wouldn’t let her back away and kept her pressed against him. Her breasts strained against his chest and ached to be touched. His mouth ravished hers with hard and soft kisses and each twirl of his tongue sent her further into chaos. She found kissing him enjoyable and recalled him asking if she felt it after the ceremony. The ‘it’ he mentioned was definitely desire.

But there was more than desire and the feelings swarming him earlier needed great reflection. When her hand joined his, the touch brought forth a rush of emotions—many of his sentiments which she had yet to understand or consider.

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First Kiss - Undeniable Heart (Legend of the King's Guard - Book 4)

First Kiss - Undeniable Heart (Legend of the King's Guard - Book 4)
Excerpt Copyright @ 2019 Kara Griffin

They were alone. Nerves got the better of her, but she had to say something before he too retreated inside and she missed the opportunity to make amends. She rushed forward and threw herself into his body. With her arms around his waist, she felt his body stiffen. He didn’t return the embrace. His hands fisted by his sides and he kept his gaze on the cave entrance.

Dallis sighed wearily, knowing his acceptance would be difficult. He grabbed her hand and pulled her along until he reached the nearby pines. The scent heavy from recent rains infiltrated her nose and she sneezed. Their location was private and the surrounding land hilly. She understood why they resided in the caves and had heard mention of their hiding from the king. Although, she was hesitant to ask too many questions what they’d done to warrant their banishment.

Dallis had to defuse the situation. He was angry. There’d be no forgiveness from him if he stayed ireful. She did the only thing she could think of to mollify the situation. She kissed him.

Her lips touched his and she pressed against his hard body, hoping to allay him. With all her heart, she hoped he’d respond. At the slightest movement of his lips, she moaned in joy. She pulled back and took a breath. The kiss was that of a modest nature and not at all sensual. Yet, the thought of kissing him brought forth a rush of delight and assuredly a brush of crimson to her cheeks.

He didn’t give her time to collect herself before he yanked her hard against him and took possession of her mouth. Dallis hadn’t expected such a show of passion, but when his tongue lashed at hers, the kiss became more than tumultuous. She tensed at his forthright manner and her insides fluttered madly. Fear forced her to draw away.

Brodin wasn’t being adoring or romantic. He used his aggressiveness to frighten her. She contritely admitted his plan worked. His brashness was somewhat punishment, she supposed.

“Why did you kiss me?”

Dallis stepped back. His voice hardened yet had a lyrical sound to it akin to a soft touch. He didn’t sound displeased which lightened her. “Whenever my mother upset my da, she would kiss him until he forgave her.”

His gaze pierced her. “I am not so easily won over as your da.”

“Why did you kiss me back?” Dallis couldn’t look at him when she asked. His silent glare caused a shiver to trembler her insides. “If you meant to frighten me … You don’t have to answer—”

“Because your kiss wasn’t praiseworthy. I wanted you to ken what a proper kiss—”

“Please, we shall just agree that the kiss was of no consequence.”

“The hell it wasn’t.”

She took a breath and decided not to argue with him. It was best to keep him amiable. “I wanted to explain … my reasons for …”

Brodin sighed and his chest tightened the thin fabric of his tunic. “You deceived me.”

“Aye and I’m sorry for it. I wish I didn’t have to …”

He fisted his hands at his side and his usually bright eyes darkened. “I almost killed the last lass who deceived me. Tell me why I shouldn’t kill you?”

As much as she tried to keep calm, a bristle of panic stiffened her back. Dallis took a step back to put a wee bit of space between them. And if she needed to run, it would be easier to turn and flee if he wasn’t standing so close. With his long legs, he’d likely catch up to her right quick. The thought of fleeing him was pitiful. She thought his question absurd. “Do you honestly expect me to answer that?”

“Aye.” He folded his arms over his stomach in wait. “Give me one sound reason why I shouldn’t.”

She ruminated for at least a minute. The silence betwixt them discomforting her to the point that sweat formed on her forehead. “If you wish to slay me, then do so. I couldn’t stop you and have not the strength to defend myself.


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First Kiss - Fearless Heart (Legend of the King's Guard - Book 3)

First Kiss - Fearless Heart (Legend of the King's Guard - Book 3)
Excerpt copyright @ 2019 Kara Griffin

He returned the sensual kiss with all his being, pressing her body against the cottage thatch. Her soft curves melded to him and her tongue timidly coaxed his touch. There was something oddly desirous in her kiss, and more than that, his response which undoubtedly confused him. Her fingers meshed in his hair and she pushed back the hood of his cloak. He weakened at the knees and set his hands on her hips. Heath continued to caress her mouth and the sound of a soft moan reverberated his tongue. A yearning to have her snuck upon him.

He quickly pulled away. Heath gazed into her eyes. She peered at him with desire mingled with fear. He didn’t like it one wee bit, her desire nor her fear. Lillia turned and glanced around the cottage and returned her gaze to him.

“They’re gone.”

“Who is gone?” He kept her from leaving and took hold of her wrist. Many questions hit him at once: who were the two men following her, why she pulled him around the cottage, and most import, why she kissed him?

“No one.” She smiled and touched his face, the light caress allaying him. “’Twas naught but a few suitors I was trying to avoid. It’s been many a year, Heath. I assume you’re here for the autumn festival?”

“Something akin. And lass, I can tell when you speak a falsehood. Those men were following you. They were intent to reach you. Are you in danger?”

She shook her head, her bonny blonde waves shaking. “Nay, not at all. Do not make it out to be more than it is. You’re as handsome as I remember. Although your hair is much darker and longer, and my, but you are verily taller than I remembered.” Her fingers pressed his arm and there was something stirring in her touch.

“I was little more than a lad when I last saw you.” He searched her face for honesty, but since she insisted she was safe, he relaxed. “You’ve turned into a beautiful woman, Lillia. Aye, no longer the willful lass?”

Lillia laughed a sound as light and sweet as a Dunnock sparrow on a spring morning. “I haven’t been willful since I was wee. Where have you been? I heard your father sent you away but I didn’t believe what was rumored …”

He raised a brow. “You should believe what was told. I am in service to the king. So … tell me what had ye running and why you demanded I kiss you?” Heath almost groaned aloud when he noticed the glisten of her lips. He wanted to kiss her again, truth be told, for much longer and with much more passion. But Lillia was like a sister to him. They’d spent most of their childhood teasing and chasing one another. He shouldn’t consider her in any sort of romantic notion. Then why did his heart tense when he saw her? And why did it clash madly when she’d kissed him?

“I told you, Heath, two suitors set on gaining a kiss from me, but I thwarted them.”

“Aye, you thwarted them all right. Do your brothers ken you’re out here alone? Do ye make a habit of hailing off without protection? There are many strangers here. I’m surprised your father didn’t bid ye to stay in the keep.” The more he thought about her lack of care, the more ireful he became. “You should return home before something—”

“My da forbade me from leaving the keep. But I worked hard preparing for the festival and wanted to enjoy it. I shall return home soon, but before I go … I …” She set her arms around him and hugged him close. “I’ve missed you, Heath. Will you not walk with me a bit before I return?”

“I shouldn’t, but I will.”  He should leave, but everything within him told him to stay. At least for a short while. He walked next to Lillia and continued to watch her. She was lovely. Her sunshine hair flowed freely. Her brown eyes sparkled with flecks of light and as golden as a new batch of honey. Not only was she beautiful, but she still had the winsome spirit he remembered. Lord how he’d missed her.

They rounded a copse of trees and Heath knew where she was leading him–where they’d spent many a warm summer’s day–by the stream where they swam and caroused. Against his wishes, he kept his distance with a respectable foot betwixt them. Getting close to her would only cause his heart to war with his mind. His heart clamored and his mind rebelled.

She slipped on a patch of wet leaves and ended up in his arms. Heath held her longer than was necessary to rectify her. Lillia felt right in his arms as if she belonged there. And yet he berated himself for thinking such thoughts. With a newfound view of her, he resisted lowering his mouth to hers.

“You’re still gawkish. Aye, you always were.” He couldn’t hold back the grin that came, for she’d always made him merry.

Her bonny eyes crinkled with mirth. “I am not clumsy, at least not anymore.”

“You always walked into things and caused mishaps around you.” He grinned at the remembrance. “You need to be more alert.”

“I’m always alert.” She released him and pressed her hands over her garments.

“Aye? Then ye are aware there was a man following us?”

“There was? Where?” She turned and peered at the surrounding trees. “I see no one.”

“I believe we lost him when I veered you around the large crag. You ken, the one we used to jump from when we were children.”

“Do you know who he is?” Her eyes widened, and he was positive now she feared the follower.

“Nay.” Heath wondered if someone followed him and not her. Perhaps someone recognized him and was intent to apprehend him. But then why would she be fearful? He took a moment to survey their surroundings and listened intently for sounds, but no one was near enough, not even a small animal. “Worry not, Lillia, I’m alert enough for the both of us.”

“You, Heath Fraser, are being boastful, and always were.”

Assured he’d lost the follower, Heath eased. “Mayhap I boast a wee bit. Let us sit and take rest. Tell me of your life.” He’d rather continue kissing her, but needed something to occupy him so he wouldn’t do as he was wont.

“I wish not to speak of it. Do you recall when you first kissed me the night all the fireflies surrounded the stream?”

Heath remembered that night as if it were yesterday. It was their first and only kiss until this day. The magical night rivaled this one. He sat and leaned against a tree, gazing out to the flowing waters. His hand set against the bump of his dagger fastened to his leg. If danger neared, he’d be ready to face it.

“It was the night of the summer solstice celebration.”

He trained his ears again to notice any unusual sounds around them, and hearing none, motioned for her to sit next to him. “I don’t recall this night you speak of. I do remember you always followed me and your brothers.”

Lillia sat next to him and stretched out her legs. She took the hem of her skirt in hand and tossed it to ensure her legs modestly covered. “That’s because you never took me with you and I had to sneak around. This night reminds me of it for it was dusk and the night air warm. You kissed me when my brothers climbed the willows and chased out the fireflies. It was magical with all their wee lights around us. I shall never forget it.”

It was indeed a night to remember but Heath wouldn’t own to such triviality. It was best he refute her, because he didn’t want to cause her harm or hurt. Lillia Hunter wasn’t a lass he should consort with no matter how much his heart protested. He had too much respect for her father and brothers to woo her without their permission.

“Have you married?” His question both surprised him and caused her to gasp. “I only ask in case your husband is searching for you. Mayhap he was the man who followed us.”

“He wasn’t. What I mean to say is that I am not married. My da intends to betroth me and I shall soon leave. I won’t see you again.” Her tone suggested he’d wounded her which was not his intent.

“Likely not because I only planned to stay this day.”

“Why did you come?” She picked a piece of grass that found its way onto his tartan.

He shifted the material to cover his thigh and grinned. “I am searching for my missing squire and heard he came to … enjoy the festivities.”

“I fear there isn’t much fanfare for it appears the king hasn’t come.”

“How do you ken the king hasn’t come?” Heath was pleased to hear that because Gilroy was safe enough for now.

She folded her hands and kept her eyes faceted on him. “The gate’s men would have sounded the bells. They practiced days in advance to get the melody right. The bells didn’t toll and haven’t all day. He hasn’t come. My father will be disappointed for he’d spent a fortune in purchase of enough food and such for the king’s entourage.”

“It’s probably better he hasn’t come.” Heath felt eased talking with Lillia. It was as if they’ve never been separated. “Are you joyful of your betrothal?”

She moved closer and her long leg flanked his. He gritted his teeth against taking her in his arms and kissing the breath from her.

“I am not certain if joyful is an appropriate word. But I should obey my father and wed the man, shouldn’t I? I always thought … that is, I gave my heart to—”

Lest he be the one to give her ideas, he said, “We should all obey our das.”

Heath was gladdened he wasn’t a woman. The fairer sex had much more restrictions placed on them than men. Women moreover subjugated and had to follow a man’s dictate their entire lives, first their fathers and then their husbands. If he ever married, not that he planned to, he’d never force his wife to follow his directives.

Lillia turned and with her face an inch from his, she smiled. “I am disheartened you don’t remember our first kiss. Let me remind you.” She set her hands on his shoulders, tugged him forward, and her lips pressed against his.

Heath groaned in delight at the softness settled against his mouth. Everything told him to push her away, to invoke gallantry. Everything but his heart. He clasped her in his embrace and pulled her toward him until he felt the swell of her bosom pressing his chest. Their kiss continued in a mindless mix of sensual desire and extreme lust. Heath had never wanted a woman as much as he wanted her. His hand caressed her back and his breath harsh. If he wasn’t careful, he’d delve his hand beneath her skirts to see if she longed to have him there.

He surely wanted to join his body with hers and he was certain he’d die a little if he didn’t.

Lillia pressed her hands over his abdomen and kept up the torture until she reached his chest. His muscles flinched at the sensitive touches and before his desire got the better of him, he dislodged his mouth.

Taking a moment to compose himself, his breath slowed. She affected him far more than he should allow and yet … “I’m sorry, lass, I don’t remember our first kiss being so … intense.”

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First Kiss - Unbreakable Heart (Legend of the King's Guard - Book 2)

First Kiss - Unbreakable Heart (Legend of the King's Guard - Book 2)
Excerpt copyright @ 2019 Kara Griffin

“You’re betrothed to me.” He sat on the closest chair and settled her on his lap. She must’ve been rattled for she didn’t protest and remained still.

“No, I’m betrothed to another.”

“Liam, explain why you deem her to be betrothed to you.” Graeme’s impatience wore.

He gave a sharp glance at Graeme. As much as he liked the bewilderment in her eyes, he decided to appease his comrade and leaned his head closer to hers. “Tell him the name of your betrothed. You do know it, do you not?”

Her eyes shot to her hands. She fiddled with her fingers and twisted them until she folded them and placed them on her lap. “Of course I do. His name is … I only know him as Kincaid. He’s the Earl of Lennox’s nephew. The betrothal was made years ago, but he hasn’t come.”

Liam didn’t like sound of dejection in her tone. “I’ve been unable to.”

“You … You are … You’re Kincaid?”

“Aye. Liam Kincaid, the Earl of Lennox’s nephew,” he said, grinning at her confusion.

Graeme laughed his arse off.

“I don’t know what to do. Why have you avoided the betrothal? I don’t understand.”

“I was unfortunately delayed. My comrades and I are in service to the king. I’ve been protecting King Robert and will continue to do so.” He scowled at Graeme to get him to cease his laughter, but his comrade didn’t cooperate or help his situation.

“And now you want to honor the betrothal?”

“Hell yes. If I’d known, lass, how bonny you are, I’d have made my way to you sooner.” He smiled knowing what he spoke was the truth. “We will wed on the morrow.” Liam stated the last in a firm and assertive tone, because she appeared akin to a frightened doe, ready to scamper off and hide.

“It doesn’t matter. I must have your promise to teach me to use the sword.”

Liam felt her body tense. “As my wife, you will leave it to me to enact your revenge. I will kill this foe of yours. You only need to name him.”

She stared at him long and hard, and if he wasn’t mistaken, her eyes turned greener. Now that he got a closer look at her, he found her to be even more appealing. The pertness of her nose, coupled with the sparse freckles made her enchanting. Not only was she bonny, but she was petite and a gentle lass.

“I will kill my own foe. I only need your help in learning to use the weapon.”

Mayhap not such a gentle lass. He took hold of her chin and turned her face so she’d look at him. “It was not an offer, lass, but a command. Tell me who you seek and he will exist no longer.” There was no way he’d allow her near a weapon. He was firm in his resolve until a moment later when she gave him a condition of her own.

“I do thank you, Kincaid, but nay. This foe will die by my hand. I have a condition as well. I will wed you, but only because my father willed it so, and because you will teach me to use the sword. Otherwise, I shan’t speak the words.”

Graeme laughed and fell back in his chair. “She’s got a wee bit of gumption. What say you, Liam? Are ye getting married or not?”

She was going to be difficult. Aye, the sweet lass had a wee bit of fire in her. Liam grinned and nodded. He had no choice but to accept her condition.

“I agree to your ridiculous requirement. We shall seal the pact with a kiss.” Before she could protest, he set his mouth against hers. Kissing Makenna was pleasurable, so much so that Liam got caught up in the sensuality of it. He held her face, cradled in his rough palms. Soft lips pressed against his mouth. He deepened the kiss unbeknownst where it would lead. When her lips responded, a possessive aura came to him. His tongue grazed hers, lightly coaxing hers to mingle with his.

The kiss was more than he’d expected and desire struck him. He wanted her, wanted to make her forget her despair, and wanted her beneath him. Never had his heart raced as it was doing now.

Liam drew back and smiled because she appeared as dazed as he. He hadn’t told an untruth when he agreed to her condition. She wanted to learn the sword, and he’d train her. He didn’t say it would be easy on her. His deception formed and he chuckled. One way or another, he would sway her to give up such a farfetched notion.

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First Kiss - Conquered Heart (Legend of the King's Guard - Book 1)

First Kiss - CONQUERED HEART (Legend of the King's Guard - Book 1)
Excerpt copyright @ 2019 Kara Griffin

Kerrigan was fascinated. “Why must you flee? Oh, I understand, you cannot be found. If someone recognized you, you would be pursued. Is that right?”

“Aye, that is correct.”

“I’m curious of what you run from.” She placed her hand against his neck, and caressed the heat of his skin, and the slickness of the cover-up.

Graeme pulled her against him. He tilted her face back. “If I told you, lass, I’d have to kill you.”

She smiled even though his words should have frightened her. “As curious as I am, I believe I can forget this conversation ever happened.”

He grinned and kept his eyes fixed on hers. She leaned upward and set a gentle kiss on his lips, but didn’t want a gentle kiss and hoped he would take her hint. She wanted all of him, without restrictions, without consequences. With him close, she wouldn’t lose the opportunity to kiss him as she wanted. She pulled him closer and held his face to better position herself. Using her mouth, she swarmed him with a hot-blooded kiss, one which surely let him know of her desire.

When he pulled back, he frowned. “I’m the one in danger here because I cannot resist the desire to kiss you for the rest of the night. My honor disallows me to do so. But I hope that kiss was unforgettable.”

“Everything about you is unforgettable.”

Graeme rose and helped her to stand. “We should get rest. Morn will be here soon and the others will rise.”

Kerrigan hid her disappointment and followed him inside. She noticed his comrades washed and set their bedrolls and settled to sleep. Graeme set about washing. He said nothing more. With a dampened cloth, she wiped her face and hands, and sighed at the thought she washed away their kiss. This night, she wouldn’t get any sleep, not with all her worries, and because of the kiss they shared.

She often slept like the dead. No one rousted her early, at least before the sun rose. It was a habit she’d had since she was wee. She opened an eye and spied the chamber and heard the noise of the occupants. Annag banged a pot she set upon the fire. Finley sharpened the spear he used for fishing. The French woman nursed the bairn and hummed softly. Gruff tones of Graeme and his men sounded from across the large chamber.

It was then she noticed the fire pit in the center of the room. Stones encircled it and smoke drifted to the high peak of the cave’s roof. There was a small amount of light where a hole allowed the smoke to filter through. From her vantage point the cave felt as vast as the great halls of Edinburgh and Stirling.

She didn’t want to awaken and closed her eyes. Kerrigan was content to listen to the surrounding sounds. The noise drifted and quieted. Someone touched her shoulder.

“Lass, are you awake?”

She recognized Graeme’s voice. “Hmm. I’m trying to wake.”

“It’s time to open your eyes.” Graeme chuckled and shook her shoulder. “Are you that tired? The day is half gone.”

“Nay,” she said grumpily and sat up. “I’m awake. What is it?”

“I must go.”

Kerrigan rubbed her eyes and noticed all vacated the main chamber. The prior days exhausted her. She’d gotten little sleep the night before, amongst her worries and what with the bairn’s cries, and listening for the men’s return. Early in the morn she rousted with the men’s training. They weren’t quiet and the clang of their swords and their shouts intrigued her enough to get her out of bed. It was worse than lying in the same chamber as a snoring man. And the remembrance of their kiss kept her from falling back to sleep.

“Be off with you then,” she grumbled. She bunched the covers she slept on and rose. When she reached the table, she turned and bumped into Graeme who stood directly behind her. “I thought you were leaving?”

“Aye, I am, but I wanted to tell you I have someone searching for news of Andrew Moray. We should learn something soon.”

“I am pleased. Thank you, Graeme. Where are you off to?” She rubbed the sleep from her eyes and tried to clear her mind from the drowsy fog.

“I travel today and won’t be back for a few days, mayhap three. Will you be well?” He moved closer.

Kerrigan didn’t understand her reaction to him. She’d never been attracted to a man before and found none of them appealing. But Graeme charmed her. His face exuded strength with his lightly whiskered jaw, his neck thicker than most men, and his shoulders wide, and set with pride. His hands and forearms thick and strong. He could crush her with his bare hands. But Graeme carried himself with honor and reverence.

She daren’t gaze lower to his midsection, certain she’d blush as crimson as the flowers that grew by the village gate. He made her anxious. Yet she wanted to smile because he was near. It made no sense to her, the strange and aloof response.

“Kerrigan?”

“Oh aye, I shall be fine. I will go to the village later to locate the mother of the bairn.”

He took her arm and held her. “You shouldn’t go to the village. It might be dangerous. I bid you to stay here. When I return, I’ll take you.”

“The English haven’t come, and whilst I have time, I should look. The mother might flee with all the others. Nay, I must go. I promise not to linger.”

“You will do as you are wont, so I won’t stop you. If you need help or need us, send word to Friar Hemm. He can reach me.”

“I shall be well. Worry not.”

He dawdled and didn’t have a care to leave. Kerrigan pretended to gather foodstuff to eat. She took a quick bite of a sliced apple. He continued to hold her arm, but she didn’t pull away. Content to be near him, she waited for him to say something.

“What news about the war? Has anyone heard from Laird Bruce?”

Graeme released her and stepped back. “Aye, he’s returned from exile and was crowned. Robert the Bruce is now king of Scotland. He’s taking arms against his enemies.”

“I’m uncertain if that’s good news, is it?” She finished the apple slice and took another.

“It may be good. He aims to war against the MacDoughalls this summer because they allied with the Comyn clan.”

Kerrigan jumped into his arms and hugged him tightly. She grew excited at the news and didn’t realize how forward she’d been. Her cheeks heated when she felt her breasts firmly against his chest, and slowly she released him. “I apologize, it’s just this news… I have hoped, prayed, the MacDoughalls would pay.”

“What of the MacDoughall’s? What do you know of them? I thought you were of Morays?”

She didn’t deem the information secret and it wouldn’t have bearing on her safety. “I was taken in by Laird Moray and made his ward after our home was attacked by the MacDoughalls. I’m of the Campbell clan. They killed my clansmen, likely my mother, and chased us from our lands in the battle of the Red Ford.”

Graeme firmed his lips. “Our king is determined they pay for siding with the Comyns. The Bruce will stop at nothing to defeat them.”

“If they are conquered, will I be able to return home?” Kerrigan only hoped it was so. How she longed to return to the place where she’d had happiness. So long she awaited joyous news.

“I’m sorry, lass, but it’s unlikely. The Campbells scattered to the north. The king aims to meet them and ask for their support. Once we find the wee lord, you’ll go with him to our king.”

“Why would I go with the wee lord?” Kerrigan bit her lower lip and considered what that meant. She wasn’t sure she wanted to meet the king. If she did so, she’d leave Graeme, her friends, and put herself in more danger. Not only that, but she’d have to accept the betrothal the Bruce would surely mention. She wouldn’t voice her concern about it to Graeme until she gave it more thought. Taking another apple slice, she popped it into her mouth.

“The Bruce will see to Moray’s safety and yours.”

“Perhaps. Still, I’m pleased to the MacDoughalls will pay. I hope the king thwarts them. They deserve nothing less.”

“Brodin won’t be pleased you’re from the Campbells. His clan, the Grants, are sworn enemies of your clan. At least the Campbells and the Grants allied with the Bruce. Robert will protect you.”

“I wasn’t aware of the hostility between our clans. I don’t want Brodin to be angry with me. Will you tell him so?”

“I shall. Worry not. Do you know what I’ve been thinking?”

Her heart raced and her breath quickened at the sultry tone of his voice. She hastily swallowed the apple before answering, “Nay.”

“About our kiss, lass. Aye, it was over too quick for my liking.” He lowered his mouth and touched his lips to hers.

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First Kiss - In Love With A Warrior (Gunn Guardsman - Book 4)

First Kiss - IN LOVE WITH A WARRIOR (Gunn Guardsman - Book 4)
Excerpt copyright @ 2019 Kara Griffin

His eyes shot open when he thought he heard a woman’s voice. He must’ve been mistaken and closed his eyes again. Damnation, now he was hearing her voice.

“James, I need to talk to you.”

He moaned and thought she haunted him, but he answered anyway. “Hmmm, lovely?” He felt her touch when she shook his shoulder. James grabbed her wrist and pulled her over him. “You came.”

“I must speak with you.”

James fondled the curve of her hip and moaned. “Nay, no talk, lovely. Will you kiss me? I’ll sleep contentedly if you do.” He gave her no choice when he forced her head closer and set his lips on hers. A moan escaped him as pleasure swarmed his already heated body. He forced her mouth open with his tongue and touched it to hers. By God, the kiss was everything he’d imagined. She squirmed against him and James kept her from moving away with his hands linked behind her back. She broke off the kiss and slapped his face hard.

James sobered briefly and laughed. He rubbed his face of the slight sting. “Aw, lass, why are you angry? Come, give me another kiss. That was practice.”

She slapped him again. “Are you drunk?”

He chuckled knowing if he hadn’t imbibed his face would be afire with the force of her ire. “Mayhap, a wee b-bit. Aye, mayhap a lot of b-bit.”

“I’d say the latter. I should leave.” She tried to pull away and narrowed her eyes when he refused to release her.

James kept a tight hold of her wrist, for if he was dreaming he wouldn’t allow it to end. Not this soon. “Nay, s-stay. It’s your f-fault, for being s-so lovely. Aye, you caused me anguish, for my heart never hurt s-so much. But God, I want you. Let me.” He tugged the bodice of her gown and exposed her breasts. “So beautiful, the p-prettiest bosom I’ve ever laid eyes on.” He leaned forward and kissed the flesh until his lips reached her nipple. His tongue laved at it, and he took it into his mouth and suckled.

She gasped and remained still.

He moaned as pleasure rode his thoughts. “Ah, Emlyn, what you d-do to me.”

James continued to ply his attention on her breasts and would’ve been happy to do so for the rest of the night. He returned his lips to her mouth and kissed her tenderly. Ever since she’d bested him on the field, he wanted her in his arms, wanted to taste her, and wanted her attention. His dream came true for she lay against him and returned his kisses willingly. There was desire in her kiss.

“Let me love you, lass.”

“James, we shouldn’t. I came here to discuss a proposal.”

“Aye, but we s-should. Give me this one night and I shall die a contented man.” He kept her in his arms, fearful if he let her go, she’d vanish again.

“You’re drunk and I only came here to ask you something.” Her voice was soft, feminine, and caused him to caress her.

“Ask m-me anything for I am at your s-service.”

“I want you to take me with you.”

His body hummed with excitement, having her next to him, pressed intimately against his body. “Aye? That’s what I’ve been asking you, lovely. Remove your gown.”

“I don’t know if I should.” She continued to keep her body rigid.

“You should. I promise you won’t regret it. You’ve bewitched me, lass, because this is what I’ve thought of since you pinned me to the ground.”

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