Jamie said, regaining his footing after almost being knocked over as Galiana ran from the room. “She throws me off balance.” Rourke pursed his lips and cursed his aching head. The only time it didn’t ache was when he was kissing Galiana. Jamie shut the door, obviously deciding not to probe the tender subject. “I’ve a message from the king. It was for you, but I had to tell the messenger you were indisposed.” “King William?” Jamie laughed. “Who else? Richard is not in the habit of writing, my friend.” “What does it say? I assume you read it, since I cannot.” Rourke found himself teetering on the edge of self-pity. “You’re not going to like it.” Rourke felt a cool whirlwind begin at the base of his spine. “Tell me.” “He’s not pleased that you wed the lady. In his letter, he says if by some miracle ye haven’t consummated the marriage, to set her aside immediately.” Jamie waited for Rourke to announce a miracle, then spluttered obscenities when Rourke remained mum.
