Page 111 of The Highlander's Princess Bride
Braden rolled his eyes. “I know you think I’m an old stick-in-the mud, but I truly would rather be with my family.”
“I think you’re splendid,” Victoria said, giving him a hug. “But I also think you work too hard.”
Since coming to Glasgow, she’d been on a campaign to get the lad to ease up on his studies. But Braden was determined to gain admittance to medical school as soon as possible. He was the most disciplined, serious person Nick had ever known.
“Someone in this household has to earn his keep,” Royal said. “God knows the rest of us spend our days lazing about.”
“Speak for yourself,” Kade said, poking him in the arm. “I work very hard, as does Miss Knight.”
“True,” Royal said, ruffling his little brother’s hair.
Nick didn’t miss the bitter twist to his brother’s smile. Royal still hadn’t a clue what to do with his life.
“How about another wee dram in the drawing room?” Angus said.
“Yes, please,” said Kade. “I want to hear all about the party.”
Nick frowned. “It’s getting late, and you must be tired.”
When Kade started to protest, Victoria smoothly intervened. “I think we can make an exception. After all, it’s New Year’s.”
“So there.” Kade stuck his tongue out at Nick.
They all laughed and the family followed Angus into the drawing room. Nick held Victoria back. “Are you sure the boy’s not wearing himself out? He’s looking a little peaked to me.”
“He’s looking no such thing,” she said firmly. “The doctor said just yesterday how pleased he is with Kade’s progress. Stop worrying so much. I’m sure it’s not good for you.”
“Do you fear for my health, Madam Governess? If I fall ill and take to my bed, you’ll have to join me there. To personally attend to all my needs, of course.”
“Sir, I cannot imagine what you’re talking about.”
“Lass, you knowexactlywhat I’m talking about,” he murmured, leaning in close. She smelled delicious, like peppermints and sweet tea.
Her lips twitched. “You are incorrigible,” she said before marching past him.
Nick followed, not bothering to hide his grin.
Kade, sitting on the sofa by the fireplace, waved as they came in. “Miss Knight, come sit by me.”
As she went to join him, Nick propped his shoulder against the edge of the mantel and accepted another dram from Angus.
“So, ye all had a grand time prancing about with the nobs, did ye?” Angus asked.
“We did,” Victoria said. “It was a lovely party, and not everyone was a nob. For one thing, I was there.”
“Aye, but ye are rather snooty,” Angus said with a wink. “Even if ye are a governess.”
Victoria simply rolled her eyes.
None of the others but Nick knew she was the natural daughter of the Prince Regent, since she’d sworn him to silence on that point. To his family, Victoriawasonly a governess, and yet they clearly respected her, including his grandfather, who would be more likely to hold her royal blood against her rather than see it as advantageous. And Nick’s brothers would probably think it a great joke, something to tease her about.
“She’s not snooty at all, Grandda,” Kade said in stout defense. “And I’ll bet Miss Knight was the prettiest lady there. Right, Nick?”
Nick smiled at her. “Without a doubt.”
She scoffed. “There were far prettier girls. I know, because I watched them trail about after the twins. Graeme and Grant cut very dashing figures in their clan dress.”
“As do you, Nick,” Braden said. “I don’t remember the last time I saw you kitted out in the full regalia of the Black Watch.”
