Page 235 of Wicked Highland Heroes

He noted the absence of sympathy.

“St Claire,” she said when he didn’t reply.

He groaned.

Her brow furrowed in uncertainty. “Surely, you are no’ hurt from that short fall.”

He’d fallen at least fifteen feet and was lucky he hadn’t landed on his neck.

“I dinna’ see any blood,” one woman said.

He groaned again and closed his eyes.

An instant later, slim fingers gently probed his head. “St. Claire,” Rhoslyn said.

This time concern filled her voice, desperate concern, if he wasn’t mistaken.

Talbot snapped open his eyes, seized her shoulders and dragged her to him for a sound kiss. Rhoslyn yanked back, mouth agape.

“St. Claire.” She tried to twist free, but he pulled her close and kissed her once more, slowly, this time.

“Aye, he is no’ harmed,” one woman said.

Talbot rolled on top of Rhoslyn, still kissing her.

“I would say he is healthy as a horse,” another said.

Rhoslyn finally managed to wedge her hands between them and he allowed her to push him away.

“Have ye lost your mind?” she demanded. “The ground is wet and cold. Get off me.”

He looked up at the women. “Do I not deserve a reward for risking my life?”

“I would say ye are risking your life lying on top of Lady Rhoslyn in public,” a woman said.

She had a point. Talbot looked down at his wife. Her dark eyes roiled with fury.

“Were you not the least bit worried I had injured myself?” he asked.

She gave a disgusted snort. “Ye should have let me climb the tree.”

His amusement vanished. “I can easily survive a fall. You and our child cannot.”

* * *

Rhoslyn’s eyes widen.

He knows.

“Child?” Edina said.

“Lady Rhoslyn,” Molly cried, and they all began to talk at once.

St. Claire shoved to his feet and extended a hand toward her. Her heart pounded. He knew. But how? She wanted to slap his hand away. He lifted a brow. Rhoslyn narrowed her eyes. He shrugged and grasped her hand, pulling her to her feet. The women immediately encircled her, their chatter a muddle of congratulations, advice, and general joy.

“Why did ye no’ tell us?” Molly asked.

“The babe has been inside her a mere month,” Edina said. “She was probably waiting to be certain.” She looked at St. Claire. “But a husband knows.”