“Why not now, pray tell? Unless . . . you do have it, do you not?”

“Of course I have it,” Ross returned testily. “I just don’t wish to run all the way upstairs and fetch it.”

Moira said sweetly, “If it will help, I would be glad to ask one of the footmen to fetch it for you.”

“No, no. No one is allowed in my—” Ross blinked, realizing he was in the process of saying something he shouldn’t.

Moira leaned forward. “Or if you wish, I could get it for you—”

“No! No one is allowed there except me.”

“Allowed where?” Robert asked smoothly.

“Allowed in—” Ross’s gaze narrowed. “No one except me is allowed near my collection.” He paused, then said in a more measured tone, though his words were slightly slurred, “Mr. Hurst, I didn’t mean to withhold your purchase from you. I was merely enjoying the presence of you and your lovely wife and thought you were doing the same.”

“I suppose we both needed the rest,” Robert returned in a sulky tone. “Your castle is certainly comfortable, I’ll give you that.”

“Thank you,” Ross said in a stiff tone that indicated he’d rather punch Robert than smile. “I will have your artifact ready by breakfast. I trust you are satisfied with that.”

“Perfectly.” Robert sighed. “Moira, I think I will retire. I have quite the headache; I vow this damp country air is poisonous.”

“You should have Buffon fetch you some lavender water from my chamber. If you rub it on your temples, it might ease your headache.”

“I shall do that.” Robert stood, pausing when Moira stayed in her seat. “Aren’t you coming, my love?”

“No, I thought I might stay here, with Sir Lachlan. I’m not a bit tired.”

Robert shrugged. “Very well. Just don’t be up too late. We’ll be leaving in the morning, and if you don’t get enough rest it makes horrid circles under your eyes.” He bowed. “Good night, Ross. Good night, Moira.”

Moira’s heart fluttered a bit as Robert left. This is my big chance. She smiled at her host. “I hope you don’t mind if I stay a bit longer?”

“Of course not. You may stay as long as you wish.”

“Thank you. You are such a gracious host.”

He captured her hand and placed a kiss on her wrist. “And you, madame, are a lovely guest.”

She looked demurely away but left her hand in his possession. “Thank you. W-we should talk about something else, please.”

“Anything you want, my dear, but first, if you’ll give me a second . . .” He stood, tottering unsteadily for a moment, then walked to the wide doors and shut them.

She frowned. “Lord Ross, what are you doing?”

Ross turned and leaned against the door, his hands behind him. “There. Isn’t that better?”

“Lord Ross, I—”

“One kiss, Moira. Just one, and I shall let you leave.”

She was supposed to encourage him a little. Under normal circumstances she would have done so without thinking, but she couldn’t help but imagine that Robert would not be pleased.