It was only a matter of time before Elizabeth sought him out. Rafael was content to wait, content to savor his anticipation. He felt young in a way he could scarce recall feeling before, both drawn to Elizabeth and wanting to make the fascination between them last as long as possible. She was beguiling and confident in a way that was alien to him, certain of her safety and trusting fully in those around her, all because of her childhood. He watched her dance, regretting that his experience had been so different.
Rafael would have liked to have been able to court this maiden of life and fire. He doubted he would have the opportunity, though. He expected that by the time he returned to Scotland—if indeed, he ever did—she would be wedded with children of her own, her merriment likely sacrifi
