Page 26 of My Highland Fling
“He tricked her.”
“Yes.”
“What did you tell the manager?”
“I suggested he talk to her and give her a second chance.She lives with her grandmother, and her job loss would cause the family hardship.”
Gabrielle nodded.“I’m happy with that.At least appearing in the press meant Prince Gregor canceled our engagement.I’m sorry the reporters dragged you into the spotlight, though.”
“Your disappearance worried me more.It made me feel used when you took off without saying goodbye.”
Guilt slashed across her expressive face, and she reached for his hand.“Sorry, I promise not to repeat my flit.”
“I’d appreciate that.So the tasting plate.Are you interested?”
“Yes.I’ll help you critique the dessert.”
Ramsay strode into the pub to place an order.
Gabrielle’s phone rang, and she picked it up to study the screen.“Tilly, how is Edinburgh?”
“It’d be better if your mother didn’t keep calling to demand we return to the palace.”
“Did you tell her where I am?”
“No, dear.I don’t react well to shouting and threats.I hung up but thought I should warn you before I turn off my phone.”
“Did she say what she wanted?”
“No, she wanted to speak to you.”
“No doubt to issue orders,” Gabrielle muttered.“I don’t want to go home.I’m having fun with Ramsay and his friends.We had fish and chips for dinner, and now we’re sharing a dessert tasting plate.”
Tilly issued a soft laugh.“You go, dear.Just watch your back.I’ll call you tomorrow if I learn anything relevant.”
“Thanks, Tilly.I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
Tilly gave a delighted laugh.“You’ve given me a purpose, child.I wanted to make certain you lived instead of acting like a passive robot.Your mother shouldn’t censor your spirit.”
Ramsay returned, raising his brows in askance.He carried a long plate covered with tiny pieces of chocolate brownie, a dainty citrus tart, and what looked like a crème brûlée.
“Tilly, I’ll talk to you tomorrow.”Gabrielle hung up and smiled at Ramsay.“Tilly says Mother wishes to speak to me.No way I want to listen to her haranguing, but I’ll call her tomorrow.”
Ramsay plucked the phone from her hand and placed it on the table.“We have more important things to focus on, like dessert.”
A laugh escaped her, the chortle full of merriment and happiness.“Somehow, I think your mind is on something else.”
“You’re by my side, so I don’t mind the delay.”He leaned closer and kissed her cheek.Her heart beat faster, and arousal frisked every one of her nerve endings.
“Hold that thought.”
Chapter 13
Sweet Togetherness
RamsaywatchedGabrielleeata bite of citrus tart.Her lips closed around the spoon he held, and she drew the morsel into her mouth.Her eyes fluttered shut, and she hummed.Every muscle in his body tightened, and he couldn’t look away.With her long golden hair and her pink cheeks, she was adorable.His mate.
If only he could claim her and take her home with him.
