Page 72 of Her Reluctant Highlander Husband

Dorien lifted a brow. “That was your opportunity to suggest I tarry so you would have more time to convince Dorie to stay.”

“I can’t ask her to stay.” Bryce sniffed and shook his head. “I’ve given my blessing for you to take her to England, and I’ve agreed to an annulment after she’s certain she’s not increasing. I’ll not go back on my word.”

“Truly?” The other man looked genuinely surprised. “I didn’t think you would give her up so easily.”

Had his offer been something as drastic as a father’s test? If so, it hadn’t worked the way he’d planned. He hadn’t forced Bryce to acknowledge feelings he’d ignored, but rather it had made clear that Bryce had gotten too close and needed to back off.

“I was taken aback by your offer initially. But after I had some time to think it over, I think it’s for the best.” That may have been an overstatement. In truth, Bryce’s stomach was tied in knots to know he’d never see her again.

“I see.” The man frowned. “I have to admit, I didn’t think you’d agree.”

“You thought me a selfish bastard?” Bryce couldn’t blame him.

“I thought perhaps you would realize you want her.”

Ah. So it had been a test. Or at least an enlightening.

“I know you’re probably used to having people do what you want them to do. I’m sorry I wasn’t easier to manipulate into doing your bidding.”

The other man chuckled. “It’s not what I expected, but I’m not disappointed. If you truly don’t want her, it’s better that we go. She deserves a full life.”

Bryce didn’t tell the viscount how much he did want her to stay. Especially since his reasons were selfish and of the carnal variety. He enjoyed having Dorie in his bed. She was lovely, and even after they’d taken their pleasure, he liked holding her and laughing with her. He’d missed the closeness of a lover. But he couldn’t love her the way she needed and deserved to be loved. So he would let her go.

“This is the best thing for both of us,” he said firmly, more to convince himself than her father.

“Very well. We’ll leave for England tomorrow. Once we’re certain she’s not carrying your child, I’ll have the annulment papers drawn up and sent to you for your signature.”

“Thank you for giving her what I can’t,” Bryce managed to say, though his chest grew tight.

Dorien shook his head. “In truth, I fear I may be making a mess of things. It’s obvious she loves you. It may be too late for her heart to heal from that. We both know too well what that’s like.”

“I’ve given her no reason to love me,” Bryce said.

“You know it doesn’t work that way.”

Indeed, he knew.

…

Bryce wasn’t coming.

Dorie stood in the bailey outside her father’s fancy carriage looking for her husband, but he wasn’t there to see her off.

He hadn’t come to their bed the night before, either, and she’d wanted to touch him one last time. Wanted to feel his warmth and sleep next to him.

Strange how she’d come to take those things for granted. Had she known the last time was truly the last, she would have savored every moment and burned them into her memory.

Kenna stepped closer and drew her into a tight embrace. “I’m so glad things worked out with your father. I just wish he wouldn’t be taking you away from us. I’ll miss you.”

“I’ll miss you all as well. I’ll write often,” Dorie promised.

Mari hugged her next. “Remember what I told you.”

“If anyone makes fun of my accent I’m supposed to thump them in the nose?”

“Good girl.” Mari gave a nod and backed away. For such a dainty thing, she sure was a bloodthirsty wench. And Dorie would miss her so much.

“We’re ready,” her father announced, and waited to help her into the carriage.