Mandy moved into the room, taking Nathan's hand and slipping sideways onto his lap. She curled against him in a familiar way, loving the way his body felt against hers, always loving it. She kissed Nathan lightly, then snagged the drink out of his hand.
She took a sip, enjoying the burn of firewhiskey as it slid down her throat, then gave the glass back to her husband. She laughed at Ferrol's comment.
"It's a talent, I assure you," she told him teasingly. She looked up into Nathan's eyes, a grin on her lips. "I didn't mean to overhear, and I never doubted you, but thank you." And she kissed him lightly again.
Glancing back at Ferrol, she said, "I love Nathan, and he loves me. That's all that really matters." She knew he would never hurt her or do anything that would push her away.