Page 7 of An Unlikely Knight

When he glanced at her, she felt her cheeks warm. “So answer my questions,” she said, hoping he didn’t notice her pinkened cheeks or quickened pulse.

“It did happen, although you missed the best part. You were passed out when the dragon swept us away from Meliot’s castle.” He let out a breath and nodded. “And aye, I am not free to leave.”

“I remember parts of it.” Erin went on. “Why have the others been able to escape and not you?”

This time he seemed reluctant to answer. “Do you have any Irn-Bru? I’m thirsty,” he said, referring to the popular Scottish soft drink and obviously avoiding answering her question.

“I do,” Erin said, walking to her newly stocked refrigerator. “The only reason is because my cousin, Aubrey, loves it. I don’t drink it myself, its nothing but sugar.” She took the bottle out and held it out for Padriag. “I don’t think sweet carbonated beverages are healthy for you.”

“Being that I’m about three hundred years old, I don’t worry too much about what’s good and bad for me.”

Taking the proffered beverage, Padriag’s other hand closed over hers, his gaze locking with hers. A ripple of awareness traveled down her body.

“Do not feel obligated to help me, Erin. I understand your hesitation. If it is my fate to remain behind, there must be a reason for it.”

Erin had to drag her eyes away. Whatever she wished to believe, there was no denying the fact that she was not only compelled to save him, but damn if she wasn’t more attracted to this man than any other she’d ever met. She lifted her hand to reach out and touch his face, stopping halfway and snatching it down. What the hell was wrong with her?

“I do wish to help, it is just that, I don’t have the gift, like Tammie and the others. Honestly, I am not sure how I can possibly be of any assistance. What if ...” her voice trailed, unsure of what she wanted to say. What if she made things worse?

When his gaze fell to her lips, Erin’s breath caught. Was he going to kiss her? Why did she want him to?

“I am content to think on the ‘what ifs’ with you.” Padriag replied, his voice taking on a husky tone. “Take your time, if it is meant to happen it will. If not, then again, there is a reason for it.”

Lowering her gaze, Erin inhaled. “I ...” The hold on her hand lessened.

He was gone.

“I will help,” she said to the empty room.