To survive three teasing brothers, Madeline had learned to aim and throw, and she had learned to do it well.
The apple hit Rhys square in the nose, so astonished was he by her assault. He yelped and jumped backward, dropping one fish, then cursing as he searched for it in the leaves.
The apple meanwhile hit the ground and bounced. Gelert darted after it, tail wagging with delight when the apple was discovered. The dog trotted to Madeline, uncommonly proud of itself, apple held high, then laid at her feet to eat its prize.
Rhys was not so happy. He regarded Madeline warily as he came closer, still shaking dried leaves from the retrieved fish. “You are annoyed,” he said, as if her response was inexplicable.
“What splendid fortune to be wed to a perceptive man.”
“Where did you think I ha
