Page 55 of The Defiant Curse

Graham tried not to laugh. It wasn’t like he’d planned on any of this kicking back up again, but he was smart enough to know one thing.

That part of the castle, the one closest to the crypt, was feeling chilly—and not because of the weather.

Been there.

Done that.

Elizabeth didn’t react, and they weren’t sure if that was intentional or she didn’t put two and two together with what he’d just said about ‘to die for’.

“Well, feed me. I’m not saying no to dessert,” she admitted. “Trust and believe that.”

Michael laughed.

“I mean, it’s dessert. I’m in. Apparently, I get that from her, too,” he admitted. “I do love a sweet treat.”

She patted him on the leg and then yawned. She was three days past exhausted, and would kill for a soft, warm bed to cuddle up in and hide.

Glancing at her watch, she had to do the math since she’d not changed it for the time. It was heading toward eight, and she needed some downtime.

“Is there any way a girl could see her room?” she asked. “I’m running on fumes. I didn’t sleep the last three days, and I only catnapped on the flight here.”

Both men nodded.

It was probably for the best that she went to bed. She’d not be bothered by any antics if they kicked up again. All they could hope was the castle stayed quiet.

Would it?

They had no idea.

The place had a mind of its own.

Unfortunately.

“I’ll show you,” Michael offered. “I think you’ll enjoy the bed in there.”

That worked for her.

Since she appeared to be done eating, Graham put the remaining cookies in the cookie jar on the counter. It was a cheerful cow with a crazy grin.

“In case you get hungry or need more sugar,” he said, showing her where they would be. “Help yourself. I’ll make sure more appear tomorrow.”

Oh, well, that sounded like the best part of her stay here, other than seeing her sons.

Who didn’t like a magical refilling cookie jar?

Who didn’t like a cookie?

Many times, she’d sneak out of bed, waking Ethan, and she’d find him following her to the kitchen for a midnight snack. Wyler made a mean cookie.

Then, that sorrow hit like a punch to the chest.

Man.

She missed him.

“Thank you,” she said, trying not to get emotional, since her leaving had been her choice.

At her words, he smiled.