Page 81 of My Highland Love

“I said we would marry.”

“I never agreed.” She looked away.

“You swore not to become my mistress under any circumstances.”

Elise looked sharply at him. “Yes, but—”

“Unless we marry, that is exactly what has happened.”

She jumped to her feet, backing away several paces. “Not so.”

Marcus raised a brow.

Her eyes darkened. “You know perfectly well what I meant when I said that.”

“Aye, just as I have said.”

“No,” she retorted. “I would not be your mistress when you were to marry.”

He lounged back against the cushions. “Interesting interpretation.”

“It is not an interpretation!”

“Surely, you can understand my confusion.”

“You are trying to trick me,” she snapped.

“Nae, love. I only point out the facts. When you thought I was to marry, you left. You now know the truth yet are still here. Do you plan on running away again?”

Elise jerked her chin up with such a defiant gesture he had to stifle a laugh, despite knowing fear was the driving factor in her reaction. She blew out a loud, frustrated breath.

He stretched out a hand. “Come.”

Elise responded with a quick shake of her head.

Marcus repressed a smile. He remembered the last time he'd offered her his hand. Though reluctant, she had accepted it then. Would she do the same now?

“Come,” he repeated.

She again shook her head, but he noted the tiny puckering of her brows. She doubted.

“You fear me?” he asked.

Her brow puckered tighter. “You think you are clever, don't you?”

“Not so clever,” he replied. “Come.”

“I have no intention of being tricked.”

“Aye,” he replied.

“I-I have to go.” She turned.

Marcus dropped his hand to his side. “Where will you go?”

She halted. Relief flooded through him. She wanted him. He stood and crossed to her.

“Come.” He grasped her hand and drew her to the couch.