Page 108 of The Ranger
“When?”
“When our task is complete.”
“Task?”
He let his heart wander, and it reached out to hers. “Yes, little one. And when it is complete, we will have become so much more than friends.”
Her eyes went wide. “What do you mean?”
His inner heart reached for her, and the new sensation unnerved him a little. Yet, it was a natural thing, and he tried to gauge how much of it he should let loose.
She stared at him, eyes still wide, as his heart ever so gently caressed hers.
She sucked in a tiny breath, her head falling back slightly, then went very still. “I... what... oh, sorry...”
Markhel gave her a gentle smile, cocking his head. He liked watching her when his heart touched hers. There was power in the act, and he hoped she’d learn to do the same with him. But she had no control of her heart, and he was unsure how powerful her heart would be. She was only part Muiraran, and the question remained as to how much of her was.
“We should take our plates to the kitchen,” he suggested.
“All right,” she said, voice soft. A ripple of pleasure went up his spine, and he sucked in a tiny amount of air.
“What is it?” she asked.
He’d never experienced anything like that before. Hmmm, interesting...
“Markhel?”
He met her gaze, saw the mix of curiosity and concern in her eyes, and got to his feet. “I am fine. As are you. It is best we end our evening with that knowledge.”
She took the hand he offered and let him pull her to her feet. “Okay.”
He laughed. “You are delightful, Maida Comfort.”
Her cheeks went red, and she quickly retrieved their plates. “I’m glad you think so. My brother thinks I’m annoying.”
“He is a brother, and an older one at that. They think all younger siblings are annoying in some form or fashion.”
“Are you older than Markhel?”
“By minutes.”
“You’re twins?”
“Yes.” He motioned her to the front door.
Inside they ignored everyone in the parlor and took their dishes to the kitchen. Belle and Sadie were doing dishes at the sink.
Sadie took in the sight of them, a hint of sadness in her eyes, then smiled. “How was the pie?”
“Delicious!” Maida put their plates in the wash tub. That done she turned to him, a small frown on her face. “Well, I suppose it’s getting late.”
“Yes, it is.” His eyes flicked to her grandmother and back. “May I... call on you tomorrow?”
She gasped in delight, then looked at her grandmother.
Sadie sighed in resignation. “I suggest you ask your father.” She turned back to the sink. “That goes for you too, Markhel.”
“Of course.” He gave her a slight bow, even though she wasn’t looking at him, and escorted Maida to the parlor.