The Christmas Castle by J.L. Jarvis

Author:J.L. Jarvis [Jarvis, J.L.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781942767121
Publisher: Bookbinder Press

Nine

As they talked over breakfast, Charlotte noticed Ivy and Robby with their heads together, smiling and stealing glances at Ian and Charlotte.

Ian caught Ivy looking their way. “Aye, they act like they’ve never seen a couple before.”

“Maybe they just like seeing you happy—assuming you are.”

She cast an unsure look at him that made Ian laugh as he put his hand on hers. “Aye, I am. Very happy.”

Charlotte and Ian were getting good at long periods of gazing. She couldn’t really blame Ivy or Robby for enjoying the show. She could only imagine how they must appear. But as they finished breakfast, Charlotte turned her thoughts to practical matters. “I think we should look at the books.”

Ian wrinkled his face in surprise. “Have you studied accounting?”

“What?” She laughed. “No, not those kinds of books. The ones in your library.”

“Okay?”

She nodded. “And maybe some paintings.” When she saw his confusion, she added, “To sell.”

“No.” He was calm but resolved. In fact, he looked exactly how she imagined a laird should—strong and resolute.

“But Ian, it only makes sense.”

“Do you think I haven't thought of that already? I could get a good price for the land—sell it off piece by piece.”

“I'm not talking about selling your land. But you've probably got some rare books in that library of yours. Would a few books really make all that much of a difference?”

Ian's eyes shifted about, and he lowered his voice. “Scotland is full of castles. To you, this must look like just another of many. But this is my home, and it's all I have left of my family. I don't expect you to understand.”

“Why not? Because my home’s not a castle? I've got family.”

His eyes narrowed. “And they're still alive.”

His statement landed like a blow. She gave it some thought. “You're right. I don't understand. But I do want to help. Why won't you let me?”

“Because it's not for you to help me!”

Charlotte closed her eyes and took a few calming breaths. When she felt she was ready, she spoke in quiet, even tones. “I'm not going to make a scene. I'm going to get up. And after I’m out of view from prying eyes, I'm going anyplace else that you're not.” Without waiting for him to agree, she set down her napkin to the left of her plate, smiled at Ivy and Robby, then walked through the door.

“Charlotte,” Ian called behind her.

She ignored him and left.

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