“Maybe.” She wrinkled her nose as she saw his skeptical look. “Okay, I’ve been living with her one way or another for a long time. And lately she’s become…close to me.”

“I promise I won’t tell MacDuff,” he said, deadpan.

“I’m not going to count on it. I’ve found you have a devilish sense of humor. You blame it on being Irish, but I’d be an idiot if I didn’t realize it originates in a much more fiery region.”

“And when do you intend for us to take this trip? You do know I go with you.”

“I wouldn’t think of violating Palik’s prime directive. We’ll pick up two horses at the main stable tomorrow morning and ride up there.”

“What about MacDuff?”

“What about him? The house is on the property.”

“Horses?”

“You don’t like horses?”

“I didn’t say that. I appreciate them. However, in the past I haven’t been around them enough for them to have the opportunity to appreciate me.”

“I see.” She couldn’t keep her lips from twitching. “I’ll be sure to choose you a horse that will be gentle and smart enough to understand what an honor it is to have your company.” She picked up the diary he’d laid down to look at the Reiver history. “Now go make notes on MacClaren and do your thing. Then give that book back to me. There are all kinds of diagrams and photos of everything connected to the Reiver Railway Company. I want to see if I can make any more sense of these Reiver train yards.”

“What do you have in mind?” he asked warily. “You promised me no more field trips off the property.”

“And I’ll keep my word. I know the border is too far from here. Besides, I’d end up with MacDuff and his men trailing me along with you. I’ll be content with going to visit Jamie MacDuff’s house and saving the Reiver train for when Caleb takes down Bohdan. By that time, you’ll be gone and won’t have to bother with where I go.”

“It’s not too much of a bother.” He smiled slyly. “I’ve begun to feel almost brotherly toward you. You’re a little skittish, but I’ve managed to keep you under control.”

“And if this book wasn’t so fragile, I’d smash it on your arrogant head.”

“Not at all a sisterly response.” He opened the book. “And I thought we were getting along so well. But you’ll forgive me when I hand you Farrell MacClaren on a platter.”