by
Joan Overfield
|
"The only way to keep you safe is to make you my wife in truth as well as in name." Hugh's blunt declaration made Caroline's breath catch in her throat. "You mean by making love to me," she said. "Aye." He leaned forward to gently kiss the base of her throat. "But only if it is what you want as well. I'll abide by whatever you say."  Caroline tried desperately to understand the powerful emotions tearing at her. "If the answer is no?" she asked, drawing a shuddering breath. "Then I will do all that is in my power to keep you safe. You are my wife, and I pledge to do what I must to protect you." She digested that in silence before finding the courage to speak again. "And if the answer is yes?" His hard mouth curved in a smile that promised both danger and delight. "Then I will make love to you," he said simply. "Which is it to be, Caroline? Is it yes, or is it no?" |
