“I ken how important these clansmeets are for Dunn, but remind me again why we are forced tae attend as well?”
Ewan shot Adamina a glance from beside her. She was glowing in the faint golden light of that Glasgow ballroom—glowing too from her pregnancy. He allowed his gaze to linger down her body, settling on the gentle swell of her stomach beneath her ornate brocade gown. She had complained at length about the frivolity of her dress earlier that night, but Ewan thought she looked ravishing. Then again, when did she not?
“Yer brother needs tae present a united front,” Ewan said, placing his hand on her stomach. The gesture was concealed beneath their table. Adamina settled her own hand on top of his. “And besides, ye ken I like tae flaunt ye.”
“Even after these two years of marriage, ye are still such a tease.” His wife gave a bright smile, crinkling her eyes. She tucked a strand of blonde hair behind her ear, then returned her gaze to the ballroom.
They were attending their second annual clansmeet, hosted by the Crown in Glasgow, that year. It was quite the trip from Orkney, where Ewan and Adamina had definitively made their home. There had been much talk about new beginnings and travelling the world. They had explored somewhat in the first year of their marriage, taking some time in the Lowlands to learn to live in peace again. But nowhere would be home to them like Orkney.
Ewan’s heart clenched in his chest. He could hardly believe how strong Adamina had become. She was still the same lass that he had loved his entire life, strong-willed and honest. But she had grown wiser, calmer, gentler in their marriage. Her nieces and nephews kept her busy, when her books did not. She seemed genuinely fulfilled, and hopeful for the birth of their first child.
As if she could read his thoughts, she pointed at the end of the hall. Dunn was entering beside Tor. Both of the Viking Lairds were beginning to show their ages. Dunn’s hair was streaked with grey, no doubt from the stress of having to rule over a clan as challenging as Clan Leòideach. Both men were still powerhouses, embodying the prowess of their respective charges. Their wives entered after them, arm in arm.
Adamina breathed a sigh of relief. Even though they were starting a family of her own, she still worried day and night for her older brothers. Ewan doubted that would change any time soon. It was etched into her soul to agonise over Tor and Dunn, just as they would continue to agonise over her.
“Dae ye think we’ll see the Queen this eve?” Ewan asked, imbibing the last sip of his drink. “I suppose ye’ll have some choice words fer her.”
“Och, dinnae remind me.” Adamina supplied him with a laugh, leaning her head on his shoulder. “I have managed tae hold my tongue thus far. And I dinnae exactly feel like making an enemy of the Crown this evening.” She gazed up at him lovingly. “So long as I have ye by me side, and our bairn in me belly, and perhaps a dance, I will be happy.”
“I suppose I could spare the time tae dance with ye.” Ewan grinned. “I shall nae be blamed if I am the cause of yer embarrassment. Ye ken I have always been more graceful on the battlefield than on the dancefloor.”
Adamina shook her head, straightening up to press a kiss on his cheek. “Ye could never embarrass me.” She widened her eyes, wagging a warning finger. “That wasnae a challenge, now. Dinnae be getting ideas…”
They were soon joined by the rest of their family. Katarina had been doting on Adamina ever since she had learned of her pregnancy, and she settled gladly into the seat beside her. With two children of her own to raise, she was busy. Adamina was soon engaged in a new conversation with her sisters-in-law. She gave Ewan’s hand a squeeze as he slipped away from the table, joining Dunn and Tor a little further away.
“I was just about tae call ye over,” Dunn said, clapping Ewan on the shoulder. He had to speak loudly over the other guests. The volume in the hall was near deafening as old friends and acquaintances reconnected all around. “It’s good tae see ye, councilman.”
“And ye, melaird,” Ewan replied.
Where once he had shirked from his title of councilman, he now accepted the anointment proudly. He had taken a few months away to find himself and feel worthy of it, returning to his post without the shadow of his father looming over him.
He greeted Tor amicably, then turned to regard the man with whom they had been speaking. Something in the man’s face was strangely familiar to Ewan. He searched his brain for answers, but his confusion must have been written over his face, as Dunn let slip a rumbling laugh.
“I sense ye’re just as confused as I was, when first I met our friend here.” Dunn pursed his lips, gesturing towards the man. “Ye shall more confused, when he introduces himself. Believe me.”
Ewan nodded, feeling uneasy.
“Me name will be kent by ye,” the stranger said. His eyes were warm, but he held himself with reserve. Like he was hiding a grave secret. “But I would ask that ye dinnae judge me too harshly fer it.” His neck worked as his gaze met Ewan’s. “I am Laird Braden Hamilton. I believe…” The man’s jaw ticked. “I believe ye were once acquainted with me cousin.”
“It’s nae possible,” Ewan murmured in disbelief. He took a step back, stopped by Dunn.
“Dinnae go fetching yer bow, now,” Dunn warned. “Laird Hamilton isnae the villain his cousin was.”
“I understand yer confusion, seeing a ghost in the flesh,” Braden continued, nodding. “But given the chance, I would like tae dae right by ye and yer wife. As I understand it, my cousin caused ye both a great deal of trouble.”
“Tae say the least,” Ewan replied, looking towards Dunn for support. He glanced briefly back at his wife, wanting to glean everything he could about this surprising re-encounter before forcing the knowledge of Braden’s survival upon her. “With all due respect, melaird, how is it possible that ye yet live?”
“An understandable concern.” Braden smiled. “How long have ye got? I fear it could take a while indeed tae tell ye me story. But I should like tae, if ye will hear me out…”
If you want to know what lies ahead in our story, you may want to get the sequel…
Edith Macrae, born under a lucky star, experiences a fateful shift when a Yule masquerade kiss with a stranger robs her of good fortune. As Edith grapples with the realization that saving her sick mother hinges on reclaiming her luck, she discovers a painful truth: the man she’s falling for is the one she must ruin – Braden Hamilton. The man who has stolen her fortune with his kiss. With Yule’s end looming, Edith’s choice will either doom her mother or cause the loss of her new husband. Which life is she willing to sacrifice in a race against time and destiny?
Darragh awoke with a start, the air around him dark heavy. Sweat slicked his muscular frame, causing the rough linen sheets to cling to his body. His breaths came in ragged gasps, each one echoing through the small room like the thud of a distant war drum. Confusion and panic clawed at the edges of his consciousness as he tried to separate the nightmare from reality.
“Wha—where am I?” Darragh’s voice trembled, barely audible above the sound of his pounding heart.
Lara stirred beside him, her lithe form turning to him. Then, she sat up and lit a candle before moving closer to him in the bed, her long brown hair brushing against his damp skin, leaving a trail of goosebumps in its wake.
“Shh,” she whispered, her voice like a soothing breeze. “Yer safe, Darragh. Yer here with me.”
The golden candlelight flickered as her gentle touch caressed his cheek, the warmth of her palm grounding him in the present moment. A faint scent of lavender filled the air, calming his frayed nerves. The terror that had gripped him instants before began to ebb away, replaced by a sense of security that only Lara could provide.
“Ye always ken how tae bring me back,” Darragh murmured, the tension in his voice slowly dissipating.
“I love you,” Lara replied, her words warm and tender. She pressed a gentle kiss to his temple, her lips soft against his skin.
As Darragh’s breathing steadied, his eyes locked onto Lara’s, conveying gratitude beyond words. He reached for her hand, intertwining their fingers.
“Thank ye, Lara,” he whispered, his voice raw with emotion. “I dinnae ken what I’d dae without ye.”
“Neither dae I,” she replied, her smile a beacon of light in the dim room. He had to laugh.
***
The following morning, as Lara and Darragh entered the dining room, the aroma of freshly baked bread and sizzling sausages greeted them. Lara’s family were gathered around the large wooden table, their voices mingling in a symphony of laughter and conversation.
“Ah, there ye are!” exclaimed Laird MacLean, his bushy eyebrows rising in delight. “Come, sit. We’ve been waiting for ye both.”
“Thank ye, Faither,” Lara replied, guiding Darragh to an empty seat beside her younger brother. She helped herself to the food in front of her, while talk turned to childhood scrapes.
“Did ye hear about the time Lara tried to climb the tallest tree on the castle grounds?” Gil teased, grinning at Darragh. “She got stuck halfway up, and we had to call the blacksmith to help get her down!”
“Och, I was only ten!” Lara protested, feigning indignation as laughter bubbled around the table. She glanced at Darragh, who chuckled along with the rest, his eyes crinkling in genuine amusement.
“Ye never did lose yer adventurous spirit,” Elsie said fondly, passing a plate of bacon to Lara.
“Indeed,” Darragh agreed, meeting Lara’s gaze with a tender smile. “I’ve learned much from this lass—courage, love, and how to find joy even in the darkest times.”
The room fell silent for a moment, each member of Lara’s family reflecting on Darragh’s words. Then, her father raised his mug in a toast.
“Here’s tae love and family, and to the journey ahead,” he declared. “Together, we are stronger than any storm.”
“Slàinte!” they chorused, clinking their mugs together before taking a hearty swig.
It had been three months since Darragh and Lara had settled into life with her family, and their bond had only grown stronger.
Harris leaned over to hand a letter to Elsie. “More mail for you, dearest daughter,” he said winking an eye at her.
“Och, look at ye, Elsie!” teased Gil, as he playfully nudged her arm. “Another letter from a suitor?”
Elsie rolled her eyes, though the hint of a smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. “Aye, and what business is it of yours, Gil?” she retorted, folding the parchment and tucking it into her apron pocket.
“Only that we want to make sure our dear sister finds herself a proper husband,” chimed in Quinn, his grin revealing a mischievous glint in his eye.
“Three months have passed, and still nae decision?” Darragh observed, feigning shock as he reached for a slice of bread.
“Perhaps I’m waiting for a man as dashing and charming as ye, Darragh,” Elsie shot back with laughter. “Someone who can put up with me siblings’ relentless teasing!”
Lara smiled, watching the playful banter unfold. In the months since Darragh had become a part of their family, she marveled at how effortlessly he’d woven himself into their lives. Her heart swelled with gratitude for the affection they all shared.
“Maybe we could arrange a tournament,” suggested Lara’s father, stroking his beard thoughtfully. “Have the suitors compete for Elsie’s hand in true Highland fashion!”
“Father!” Elsie protested, trying to suppress a giggle. “I’m nae some prize sheep to be won!”
“Of course, lass, but it might nae hurt to see what they’re made of, eh?”
As everyone continued to jest and tease, Lara’s thoughts turned inward. The passing of time had brought with it growth and healing for all, especially Darragh. His once frequent nightmares had lessened, and the shadows that had haunted him seemed to dissipate with each day spent among their loving family.
“Ye ken, Elsie,” Lara’s father began with a smile “I’ve heard that young Duncan MacLeod is looking for a wife.”
Elsie’s grin to matched her father’s, rolled her eyes playfully. “Father, Duncan is so… dull.”
“Ah, but he has a good head on his shoulders,” countered Lara, joining in the banter. “He’d keep ye in fine style and make sure ye never want fer anything.”
“Except excitement,” Elsie retorted, earning laughter from around the table.
Lara caught Darragh’s eye. She could see the genuine warmth in his gaze as he looked at her family, the bond they had formed evident in his relaxed demeanor.
“Perhaps we should be searching for a more adventurous suitor for Elsie, then,” mused Lara’s father, stroking his beard thoughtfully. “Someone who can match her fiery spirit.”
“Like Darragh?” Elsie suggested impishly, glancing sideways at the burly Highlander.
“Och, lass, ye flatter me!” Darragh boomed, grinning broadly. “But I believe e heart belongs to another.”
“Good,” Elsie declared, feigning relief. “I dinnae think I could handle all that brawn.” She winked at Lara.
“But enough about me,” Elsie protested, turning the conversation back on her sister. “How did ye manage tae tame this wild beast, Lara?”
Lara felt warmth rise in her cheeks as Darragh’s arm snaked around her waist, pulling her close. “It wasnae so much taming as finding a kindred spirit,” she whispered, her gaze locked with his. “Enough teasing,” Lara finally added with a smile. “Let us enjoy our meal and give poor Elsie some peace.”
“Very well,” Gil conceded, winking at his sister. “But we’ll continue this discussion later!”
As the meal drew to a close, and the servants began to clear away the dishes, Lara marveled at the life she and Darragh were building together. Through trials and tribulations they had remained steadfast in their love and commitment to one another, emerging stronger than ever before. And with her family’s unwavering support, she knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them side by side, their bond unbreakable, and their dreams of a happy life together within reach.
The sun was now high in the sky, casting a glow over the Scottish Highlands as Lara and her family gathered outside their castle. The scent of lavender from the nearby fields mingled with the earthy aroma of peat smoke wafting from the chimney. A gentle breeze rustled through the branches above, causing the leaves to dance and whisper secrets.
If you want to know what lies ahead in our story, you may want to get the sequel…
Accidentally kidnapped and auctioned off to a fierce Highland brute, Lillie MacDonald’s life takes a surprising twist. Thrust into an unwanted betrothal with Diarmaid Kincaid, she finds out that even the wildest of beasts can be tamed. Yet, her blossoming love is shattered as she discovers Diarmaid’s ulterior motive: a trade to rescue his own sister. In this intricate dance of passion and betrayal, both Lillie and Diarmaid are destined to suffer the casualties of love…
Such screams erupted from the top of the tower that everyone looked at one another. Eloise stood at the side of the group with Aila and Fiadh on either side of her. They all looked up to the window of the chamber above them.
“It must be soon,” Avery said, from where he stood between all of the men in their group. Laird Chattan clapped him on the shoulder in comfort as Ian sighed, shaking his head.
“It can drag on, my friend,” Laird Chattan said in a low tone. “Trust me, Scarlett was just the same with our little one.”
“But it has been hours!” Avery hissed in panic.
“Ye need distracting.” Murdoch took Avery’s other shoulder.
“I am nae leaving this spot.” Avery thrust his hands down at the cobbled ground, refusing to go anywhere.
When another almighty cry erupted from the top of the tower, Avery tried to launch himself forward, but Eloise stood guard with Fiadh and Aila.
He cannae see. Callie told us specifically nae tae let him in until the child was born.
“Take him away,” Eloise urged Murdoch and Laird Chattan.
“Eloise!” Avery hissed, trying to claw his way back.
“All of ye,” Scarlett urged, moving to Fiadh’s other side. “Take him away until we send fer him.”
“Ye two are my sisters!” Avery snapped, but it got him nothing.
“Then trust we ken best, big brother,” Scarlett called after him with a deep laugh as he was swept away.
Murdoch and Laird Chattan each had a shoulder, and Ian followed, threatening to pull out a crossbow. Clyde and Elliot followed behind, laughing about how it took so many men just to hold Avery back.
“It has been hours,” Aila murmured after Avery was far out of earshot. “Even fer normal labor.”
“Aye, it has.” Eloise agreed with a nod.
They all exchanged nervous glances, then Aila led the way up the tower with Fiadh close behind. Eloise followed with Scarlett at her heels.
They were in the towers of Laird Chattan’s castle, heading toward the chambers that Callie used for healing, though today, she was the patient rather than the healer.
As they stepped into the chamber, Eloise swallowed around a lump of fear in her throat. Callie sat upright in the bed, sweating profusely with her chemise disarrayed and her stomach heavily rounded. She breathed heavily, her nostrils flaring every few seconds. Beside her was a healer woman, holding her arm and trying to get her to breathe easily.
“How can one breathe through this pain?” Callie hissed angrily, with her dark hair wild behind her. “This is obscene.”
“Ye can dae it, Callie.” Scarlett hurried toward the bed. “If I did it, ye can too. Ye are much stronger than me.”
“I dinnae feel strong. Nae at all. I feel weak.” Callie bent forward, shifting to her knees on the bed. “Argh!” Another almighty cry of pain came from her.
Eloise laid a hand to her stomach, rather gladdened that no one had seen her reaction, for everyone was too focused on Callie.
“We need tae get her tae the birthing stool,” the healer woman, Theodora, urged. “Quickly. Help me.”
Eloise took one of Callie’s hands, as did Scarlett, pulling her out of the bed. Fiadh and Aila urged Callie to move her feet, practically walking her toward where a stool with part of the base had been cut out.
“That thing, it looks nae better for pigs tae give birth in.” Callie practically kicked the stool away, so strongly that Eloise hastened to right it again.
Is this how much pain it is? Oh God…
Eloise chewed the inside of her mouth, not wishing to say anything as they put Callie in the stool.
“Ye told me it was the best way tae give birth,” Scarlett reminded Callie as she stood before her, with her hands on her hips, her face betraying her outrage.
“Aye, aye, I ken. It’s rather different when ye actually have tae sit in this uncomfortable thing. Argh!” Callie squealed at the pain.
“Out of me way.” Theodora brushed them all to the side and dropped to her knees in front of Callie, reaching for her chemise. “Well, as there are so many of ye here, ye can make yerselves useful. I’ll need something tae swaddle the child, linens, towels. I need fresh water too. Fetch me some spiced caudle, as that will help soothe Callie too.”
“I threw the last cup of caudle at the wall.” Callie motioned to where a cup had been smashed against the wall, the damp patches still apparent.
“I shall bring ye another then,” Eloise said, attempting a smile as she hurried to the adjoining chamber full of Callie’s usual instruments and herbs. She hastened to prepare the caudle in a fresh cup, the water steaming as she took it off the fire to add to the spiced mixture.
As she stirred the ingredients together, she paused and glanced back into the main chamber.
Aila and Fiadh both held onto their sister, as Scarlett brushed her dampened hair back from her scalp.
“Ye can dae this, Callie,” Aila urged. “Ye ken ye can. Nay one stronger.”
“Come on, Callie.” Fiadh kissed her on the cheek. “All of this will be over in minutes, and then ye’ll have that bairn in yer arms. It will all be worth it.”
“God, I hope ye’re right,” Callie muttered sharply. “If this is how painful it is every time, I’m thinking of banning Avery from coming near me ever again.”
“Well, may I volunteer first that I shallnae be the one tae tell him that,” Scarlett jested, trying to lighten the atmosphere.
Once more, Eloise laid a hand to her stomach, thinking of the pain that Callie was going through.
Will it be this bad?
“Right.” Theodora paused as she kneeled in front of Callie, looking up from the edge of the chemise. “It is time.”
***
“He’s a mess,” Clyde remarked quietly to Murdoch as they picked up their weapons again.
“Aye, he is. Laird Chattan was just the same.” Murdoch jerked his head in Laird Noah’s direction, impressed by the calmness that the laird was showing now.
“This hardly seems like a wise way tae keep Avery calm though, does it?” Clyde laughed as he gestured to the broad sword he now carried.
“Can ye think of another way?” Murdoch chuckled as he watched Ian and Laird Noah each parry with Avery. Every time Avery tried to attack with his sword to get past them to the tower, they got in the way.
“Come on, yer sword skills will have tae get better than that. Ye’ve grown slack these last few months,” Laird Noah said with a deep laugh.
It summoned new energy from Avery, who launched himself at Laird Noah.
“Me turn, I think.” Clyde swiped his sword through the air.
“I thought ye’d had enough of being a soldier?” Murdoch reminded his brother.
Clyde had finished his commission for the king and had confessed to Murdoch that he had no wish to return. The last few months, Noah had seen sometimes in the dark moments just how haunted Clyde was from what he had seen in the war, then he’d smile and brush it off as nothing.
“I’m done fighting fer the king,” Clyde said with ease. “I’ll fight for causes I believe in now.” He winked before striding forward and joining Ian in parrying with Avery, driving him further back.
Murdoch caught sight of Avery’s footwork, noting something he’d learned long ago about Avery’s fighting style. He was good at drawing men forward, thinking he was on the back foot, where in fact, he wasn’t. Sensing the danger, Murdoch circled the group and adjusted the sword in his hand.
Avery did just as Murdoch predicted. He drew Ian and Clyde toward him, then swiped out suddenly, lunging and pressing his sword toward the both of them so that they were forced to back up into Laird Chattan and knock him from his feet. The three ended up bundled on the floor.
As Avery turned, ready to sprint back to the tower, Murdoch stepped in the way, with his sword lifted.
“In the name of the wee man,” Avery cursed loudly. “Ye were ready fer it, werenae ye?”
“Fought ye often enough tae ken yer tactics,” Murdoch said with a small smile. “Eloise said ye were just the same when ye fought as a child too. Ye like to lull people intae false feelings of security.”
“It worries me how much ye ken about me now after being married tae my sister.” Avery shook his head and laughed. “Ye are quite a changed man.” He gestured to his face, and Murdoch knew exactly what he was referring to.
I smile more these days.
“Avery? Avery!” Eloise’s voice was sudden.
Murdoch lowered his sword and turned to face his wife, warmth spreading through him as she ran across the cobbled courtyard, the skirt of her gown in her hands.
“Eloise? What is it?” Avery walked around Murdoch, sudden panic in his voice. “Is it Callie? The child? What has happened?”
Eloise stopped walking, bending forward as she caught her breath.
“Eloise!”
“Hold yer horses, Avery.” She breathed deeply and stood straight, a sudden smile erupting on her features. “Both are well. The bairn has just been born. It is a girl.”
Avery smiled at once, the relief so apparent that his shoulders softened.
“Dinnae try tae stop me now,” he said playfully over his shoulder to Murdoch and the others before he ran off, hurrying toward the tower.
As Laird Noah, Ian and Clyde gathered the weapons together, Murdoch moved toward Eloise. Despite the happiness of the movement, he could sense some uncertainty in her features.
Murdoch reached for her cheeks, gently cupping them as he kissed her softly.
“What is it? Is it…” He glanced down at her stomach. They were keeping it a secret for the time being, as Eloise wished to be certain everything would go well with their own child before she told others, but plainly, something was bothering her now. “Are ye well?”
“Aye, aye, I’m perfectly fine.” She smiled suddenly, her expression transforming as she laid her hands on her chest. “It was so emotional,” she said with a wistful tone. “I was so scared when I saw the pain Callie was going through, the frustration of it taking so long too, but then suddenly…” She sighed heavily. “It was as if none of that mattered anymore. The moment her bairn was in her arms, it was all worth it.” She stepped forward, curling herself into his chest.
Murdoch raised his arms around her, holding her near.
“I am nae afraid of what will happen when we have our own child now.”
“Good.” Murdoch kissed her through her hair. “I’ve seen how strong ye are, Eloise. With ye as its mother, that child will survive anything.”
She laughed softly and tipped her head up. Murdoch bent down and kissed Eloise, holding her to him for as long as he could.
I shall be a father.
An image entered his head of a small boy, perhaps with the wildness of Eloise’s red hair, but one with his eyes. It was such a thrilling image, as he taught the boy to ride a horse with Eloise watching on, perhaps holding another bairn in her arms, maybe even a girl this time. That image made Murdoch hold their kiss for longer still.
He thought back to the moment that Eloise had appeared on that loch bank and he couldn’t have been happier for the turn of events. Eloise’s presence that day had changed the course of his life. He would forever be grateful to her for it.
If you want to know what lies ahead in our story, you may want to get the sequel…
Elliot Sutherland, forced unwillingly into an arranged marriage to save his father’s life, forms a deep connection with Fiadh Mathieson. However, when she discovers this, their world crumbles. Struggling with the consequences of his choices, Elliot is torn between choosing Fiadh or saving his father’s life …
“Announcing my brother and his wife, Ian and Aila Chattan.” Laird Chattan raised his tankard at the front of the great hall. “Please, join me in toasting them. May ye two be as happy as ye both look now.”
“Here, here!” Raucous cheers went up around the busy feasting room as many raised their cups.
Ian lifted the tankard of mead to his lips and finished the remaining contents, his gaze fixed on his new wife beside him. The ceremony had been simple, though many had wanted to attend the wedding of the laird’s brother. What mattered most to Ian was that his friends and family had come, and, of course, that Aila had eagerly spoken her vows.
She looked stunning sitting beside him, dressed in a beautiful dark green gown that hugged her waist before flowing freely to the ground. A strip of clan plaid adorned her hip, matching the one on his shoulder, secured by the clan badge.
“Ye are beautiful,” he whispered in her ear as the celebrations resumed now that his brother’s toast was finished.
The center of the great hall cleared, and many took to the open space. The pipers struck up a lively tune, and the dancing commenced. Others focused more on indulging in food and drink.
“Ye are kind tae me,” Aila whispered, leaning into him as their hands found each other beneath the table. The touch warmed Ian to his core as she guided their clasped hands to rest on his thigh. No matter how many times they had made love in the past week, he always wanted her again.
“Ye have tae eat, Callie,” Fiadh suddenly called from the other end of the table.
“I dinnae want tae eat.” Callie looked distinctly pale as she rubbed her stomach.
“Aye, ye must.” Fiadh put a heavy trencher down in front of her full of smoked fish. Callie raised her hand and covered her face. Avery at once took the trencher away.
“What’s going on?” Ian called to them, curious.
“Our sister is refusing tae eat,” Fiadh said firmly.
“And now my older sister is back in my life, she is seeking tae tell me what tae do. I cannae eat.” Callie shook her head.
“Love, ye will just have tae tell them.” Avery waved a hand at her.
“Nae today. It’s Aila’s wedding day,” Callie hissed at him, clearly urging him to be quiet.
“Do ye want tae tell them?” he asked as he ate some of the smoked fish. “Or would ye like yer sister tae force ye intae eating this?”
She looked sick again and shook her head.
“Come on, tell us,” Aila said eagerly. “Something must be afoot.”
“I am nae in the mood for eating because I am a little nauseous. That is all.”
“Ah, aye, that is so easy tae brush off,” Ian said in jest. “And what is the cause of the nausea?”
He looked at Avery, noting the smile on his face.
Something more is afoot here.
Callie sighed loudly and nodded, clearly deciding it was time to reveal all.
“I’m with child,” she confessed.
“That’s wonderful!” Fiadh and Aila were on their feet so fast that Ian was left staring at the empty chair beside him.
“I lost my wife rather quickly, did I nae?” he remarked.
“I’ll be back soon.” Aila waved a hand at him in dismissal and ran around the table, then launched herself at her sister, as did Fiadh. Poor Callie started complaining she was being squished in the chair, though no one seemed to mind. Even Avery chuckled as he sat beside her, enjoying the fish himself.
“Well done, ye,” a voice caught Ian’s attention.
He turned to see Eloise standing on his other side. She’d moved from her chair beside her own sister, Scarlett, and come to see him, laying a hand on his shoulder.
“For what?”
“What do ye think?” She laughed and nodded at Aila. “I had a feeling when ye told me of what had passed in those letters that ye felt more than just a curiosity for her.”
“Ye did nae. I did nae even ken. How could ye ken?”
“A woman’s intuition, I suppose,” she replied, tapping her nose.
“Intuition, eh?” Someone else joined them. Another voice joined them. Murdoch approached and stood behind Ian.
Ian couldn’t help but notice Eloise’s smile falter. She glared at Murdoch with intensity.
“What of a man’s intuition? Is that nae good for anything?” Murdoch seemed to take pleasure in trying to provoke Eloise. He leaned on the back of Ian’s chair, waiting for her response. Eloise, in her usual demure manner, averted her gaze from him.
“Cannae ye two call a truce for today of all days?” Ian interjected with a laugh. Over the past few days, he had witnessed how much they managed to get on each other’s nerves. Murdoch was cold, ruthless, and often downright rude and vulgar, something Eloise clearly despised. Her nature, on the other hand, was kind and welcoming. It meant that she couldn’t see what Ian saw in his friend.
He is a good man.
In contrast, Murdoch appeared frustrated that Eloise remained demure and modest, doing her best to resist rising to his taunts while keeping her distance.
“We have,” Eloise said simply.
“Nae enough, clearly.” Ian nodded between the two of them.
“Well, shall I be the bigger man between the two of us?” Murdoch cleared his throat and stood straighter, adjusting his suit.
“Ye are the man,” Eloise reminded him rather tartly.
“Well, well, ye noticed. I thought ye just saw me as a beast.”
“I did nae say the two were mutually exclusive.”
Ian chuckled into his tankard of mead, trying hard not to choke on the mixture.
“Here, allow me tae further our truce.” He offered his hand to Eloise.
“What’s that?”
“A hand. I am offering tae dance with ye, Eloise.”
“Oh, I…” She trailed off and looked at the dancers. It was a lively volta, with the ladies being thrown into the air by the men.
“I am nae so foul that ye cannae trust me tae catch ye. Come on.” He took her hand when she didn’t object further and led her away. Eloise cast a pleading look back at Ian, but he simply shrugged, uncertain of what he was expected to do.
For all of Murdoch’s brash ways, he would never drop Eloise in a dance.
Maybe the dance will do them both some good.
The chair beside Ian was occupied once again, and he looked at his wife, grasping her hand when he found her there and kissing the back of it. She smiled and leaned toward him, lowering her voice.
“Ye will nae believe what Callie just told me,” Aila was breathless.
“What is it?” he asked with sudden concern when he saw her eyes were glistening with tears.
“It is such a wonderful thing, I can barely contain it,” Aila murmured. “Callie and Avery have decided that if they have a girl, they shall name the child after me.”
“Truly?” He saw just how much it meant to her. She blinked madly, stopping tears before they could fall.
“They are in earnest.” She breathed slowly. “They have said it is their gratitude for when I saved them last year.”
“Well, ye did.” Ian remembered the story of how Avery and Callie had been locked in an outbuilding outside of the brothel as it was burning down. But Aila, courageous and swift, defied her father’s wishes, risking her own safety to rescue them. Without her bravery, they might have been lost forever in the engulfing flames.
“May the girl be blessed with the same happiness as ye are now,” Ian mused, his voice tinged with gratitude and fondness.
Aila’s eyes sparkled with joy as she leaned closer to him, the euphoria of the day radiating from her. “I pray for it,” she responded, her words filled with happiness. “I cannae bear the thought of this day coming tae an end.”
A mischievous glimmer danced in Ian’s eyes as he playfully waggled his eyebrows, teasing her with his thoughts. “What about the night? I have a few tricks up my sleeve that would bring an even wider smile tae yer face.”
Aila’s cheeks flushed, and a playful smile curved her lips. “Well, perhaps I will nae be so sad when the feasting concludes then.”
Ian’s determination flickered in his eyes as he took her hand, his desire to revel in every moment of celebration evident. “Ye will nae be sad at all. Come, my love, let us dance and celebrate with all our might.” He guided Aila to her feet, leading her gracefully around the feasting table. As they passed Noah and Scarlett, wrapped in their own world of whispered words and blushing affection, Ian couldn’t help but feel a swell of happiness for his loved ones finding their own bliss.
Amidst the swirling dance floor, Ian’s gaze fell upon Eloise, appearing somewhat adrift amidst the lively revelry. But in a surprising turn of events, Murdoch emerged, effortlessly sweeping Eloise into his arms and twirling her with unexpected grace. Murdoch, a burly figure to most, concealed a hidden talent in the art of dance, unknown to many.
With effortless finesse, Ian twirled Aila across the floor, their bodies moving as one, guided by the rhythm of their hearts. The dance left them breathless, their chests rising and falling with exhilaration as they leaned toward each other.
Aila’s voice carried a hint of mischief as she confessed, her eyes flickering with desire. “Perhaps I’ll be ready for the night sooner than I thought,” she whispered, her gaze tracing Ian’s form.
Ian’s desire matched hers, a hunger that resonated deep within him. “Then let us seize the moment and embrace the night together,” he responded, his voice laced with passion and devotion.
And so, hand in hand, Ian and Aila left the festivities behind, ready to immerse themselves in a night filled with love, intimacy, and the promises of a future entwined.
If you want to know what lies ahead in our story, you may want to get the sequel…
Eloise MacTavish, entangled in her father’s debts, seizes a risky opportunity to erase his financial burdens. All she has to do is pose as a fake fiancée to a man who has lost his previous wife-to-be to an accident and wants to avoid another wedding. Unbeknownst to her, her betrothed turns out to be no other than Murdoch Gordon—her nemesis, her forbidden temptation… and her brother’s closest friend. As their feigned affection deepens into genuine emotions, a chilling truth emerges: Murdoch’s late wife’s demise was deliberate. With danger lurking and history threatening to repeat itself, Eloise navigates secrecy, tangled emotions, and a looming peril from having her brother reveal her schemes…
Two months after Idalia & Bram’s wedding,
Strathnaver, Scotland
Idalia sat beside Mahala’s bed with the child’s favorite book in hand, reading her a chapter to help her sleep. Mahala lay covered in the bed, and she appeared to hang on every word that came out of Idalia’s mouth. Idalia read slowly, with the light from the candelabrum standing on the desk behind her.
Reading Mahala to bed had become a habit which both of them looked forward to every night. They had started it when Bran had gone off to war with Dunn to settle a border dispute. In the couple of months since getting married to Bran, she had discovered that Mahala had not had much of an education, nor had she been treated as a child at all.
While Idalia had expected it somewhat, seeing the reality of how Mahala was affected by being a captive in a military camp hurt her beyond words. She took it upon herself to restore Mahala’s childhood. While she didn’t think the damage would ever be completely reversed, it was still worth a try to give the girl a chance to forget all the things that had been done to her.
The first thing she noticed about Mahala was her strength and bravery. She never asked for help, no matter what the task, and several times, Idalia had had to go pull her out of a corner where she was hiding in the castle.
Idalia had begun teaching Mahala to read, and the child’s aptitude for it was encouraging. And so began their time reading together. In the absence of Bran, Idalia’s bond with Mahala grew at an alarming rate. Here was a child who wouldn’t trust her servants, but she had learned to trust Idalia completely.
Idalia filled their time together with activities, making a note of which activities Mahala showed more interest in. Mahala loved it when Idalia braided her hair, and she loved playing on the surrounding beaches. While she seemed fascinated when she saw the other children in the castle playing, she always refused to join them. Idalia took comfort in knowing she could not expect everything to change all at once.
She loved Mahala and made sure never to mention August’s name around her, as it had caused the child to tremble violently the last time. It had taken days for Mahala to regain her color, and Idalia had learned a valuable lesson.
“. . . And that was how the farmer began his journey to the sun with his pet chicken. The end,” Idalia read, shutting the book. She looked up at Mahala, who was smiling excitedly, clapping with her small hands under the covers. The sight always filled Idalia with happiness. Although Mahala had heard this exact ending a dozen times, she had the same reaction every time.
“How about if we try another book tomorrow night?” Idalia teased.
“But I like this one just fine,” Mahala said, giggling. “I would like to go to the sun someday . . .” Mahala’s voice was soft and wistful.
“If anyone can do it, Mahala, I’m sure it would be you,” Idalia replied, smiling.
Mahala turned in bed to face Idalia directly. “Can I call you mama?” she asked suddenly. “You are my mama now, aren’t you?”
Idalia covered her mouth in surprise and laughed softly. While the question caught her entirely by surprise, it also filled her heart with joy and happiness. She had wanted it from the first moment she was married to Bran but had not wanted to impose it on Mahala.
Idalia knew more than anyone just how much Mahala needed a mother in her life, and she wanted to answer that call with every part of her. However, she had wanted the girl to see her as such first. It had been difficult for her, hearing Mahala address her as Angel, but she had endured it because she knew those names were significant to Mahala as well.
“Yes, Mahala!” Idalia reached forward and stroked Mahala’s hair. “Yes, you can call me mama. You’ve been my child from the beginning.” Idalia swallowed her tears, not wanting to confuse the girl with an outburst of emotions. She instead leaned down and planted a soft kiss on Mahala’s forehead.
The girl yawned as Idalia tucked her in. “Good night, Mama,” she said softly as her eyes fluttered shut.
Idalia watched her with joy, resuming her seat beside the bed. She loved Mahala, and in that moment, she swore to herself that she would die first before she allowed any harm to come to her.
She settled into her chair and watched Mahala’s small form in the bed, her chest rising and falling as she slept. The both of them had come a long way, and Idalia couldn’t wait to tell Bran about her recent breakthrough.
They received a message that the campaign was over and that the troops were headed back home. She expected Bran any day, and in thinking about him, she realized just how much she missed him. Bran had informed her that he would be going out to war more and more, and she had given him her blessing. She had Mahala now to help keep her sane when Bran was away.
Idalia heard some noise from the courtyard down below and got up in annoyance. She wondered who could be making noise so late at night. Mahala slept lightly and oftentimes struggled to go back to sleep after she woke up.
She walked to the window and parted the drapes, then stifled a yelp of happiness. Riding at the head of a column of soldiers were Bran and Dunn. Bran had returned from war. Idalia felt bubbles in her stomach as she watched her mountain of a husband sitting his horse proudly, with the confidence of a thousand men.
Idalia lit a candle on Mahala’s table, then left with the candelabra. She placed it on a mantel in the hallway, and then rushed down the staircase. She and Bran had been married for a little over a month before duty had called him to the front lines. Now he was back, Idalia didn’t intend to lose another second.
She rushed out of the castle and ran down the front steps, just as the soldiers trooped into the castle yard. Bran saw her almost immediately and vaulted off his massive warhorse immediately. He picked her up mid-stride, turning her around in the air several times as she laughed excitedly.
He set her down and kissed her softly on the lips. “I’m glad to see I was nae the only person who was doing the missing,” Bran said teasingly. “It appears I was missed as well.”
“The whole country can burn down for all I care, Bran,” Idalia started. “But know now that you aren’t leaving this castle for the next three months. A woman needs her husband.”
Bran laughed and nodded. Together they climbed back up to their chambers, where Idalia helped Bran out of his war garb. He stumbled tiredly towards the tub in the corner and got into the cool water to have a quick bath.
Idalia got out of her night shift and lay naked in the bed, waiting for Bran. When Bran stepped out of the tub and saw Idalia, he barked in laughter. “Now, Idalia, I have only just returned from war. Do nae ye want to ken how that went?”
“You have enough time to tell me all about your mighty arm over the next three months,” Idalia replied with a straight face. “Now, however, you have a duty to me.”
Bran chuckled and tossed his towel to a nearby chair. “Since ye ask so nicely,” he said, climbing into bed beside Idalia. He pulled Idalia into him, and she loved how cool his body felt. He held the curve of her hips and placed a sweet kiss on her lips.
Idalia gasped expectantly. She had no idea how much she had missed his touch. Bran rolled his hand downwards and smacked Idalia’s derriere lightly, startling her. As they kissed, his hands explored tirelessly over her entire body. His probing hands filled Idalia with explosive currents, and she shivered as his fingers parted her legs and went searching inside her wetness.
Idalia moaned with satisfaction as Bran moved his wonderful mouth down to her breast, sucking her nipples hungrily. His fingers worked expertly inside her and mere seconds later, she bit down on her lip to stop from screaming as she felt her release.
Bran laughed quietly, a deep throaty sound that reverberated through Idalia’s body. He slid down till the tip of his hardness teased at the entrance to her center. He rubbed his tip teasingly across her wet surface, and Idalia squirmed as the sensation threatened to drive her mad.
Slowly, Bran slid into her. Idalia immediately saw stars, and a long wail escaped her mouth. Bran didn’t take her gently. He took her like a soldier, one who had been to war and away from his wife, ought to take her. Bran pursued his own climax and rammed into Idalia with reckless abandon.
Higher and higher she rose in mounting ecstasy, moaning his name, until at last, clutching each other tightly, they went over the precipice of pleasure together.
Bran lay down beside her and enfolded her in his arms. She closed her eyes, relishing the feel of him next to her.
“I love ye, Idalia.”
“I love you, Bran.”
She deserved this life. She deserved this wonderful husband. She deserved her beautiful daughter. She couldn’t wait for all the chapters left to be written in her life, and she looked forward to whatever life had in store for her.
If you want to know what lies ahead in our story, you may want to get the sequel…
Ewan MacGregor, torn between love and loyalty, is thrust into a precarious situation when his childhood friend, Adamina Leòideach, seeks refuge from an unwanted betrothal. Despite their deepening affection for each other, Ewan strives to keep his distance, knowing that succumbing to temptation will risk exposing his long-held secrets. And that the revelation will not only disgrace him to his own clan but also lead to losing Adamina forever…
“Are ye ready?” Aila asked as Callie stepped toward the mirror.
“A minute more.” Callie moved in front of the mirror, finding her nervousness was making her hands shake. The wedding day had come, and though she could not wait to marry Avery, so they did not have to part again, nor have to sneak around the castle in order to spend a night together, she was nervous. It was a large affair thanks to Avery’s wealthy family and his father’s standing, much bigger than Callie could have ever imagined in a wedding.
“Ye look beautiful,” Aila said sweetly and came to stand behind Callie. “Look at ye. Oh, if our mother could see ye now. She’d be overawed.”
“Ye’re so kind tae me, Aila. Ye always have been.” Callie took her sister’s hand as she looked at her reflection in the mirror.
She wore a bold, dark-blue gown, a swathe with tartan across her shoulder. Despite the tartan, the deep neckline was obvious and set off by a peek of white chemise. There were sprigs of red berries and white flowers in her hair, all for good luck, and she carried a bouquet in her free hand that was similarly dappled with such flowers.
“There is only one thing I regret,” Callie whispered, turning away from her reflection to look at her sister. Since Aila had come to live nearby, she looked infinitely healthier. She had traveled to the castle for the wedding, for she had taken lodgings in town, but her new position was clearly paying her well, for she no longer looked too thin with gaunt cheeks. She was healthy, with pink cheeks that had once been pale.
“What is that?” Aila asked, encouraging her on.
“It is Fiadh,” Callie murmured softly. After she and Avery had searched for Fiadh, they had found neither hide nor hair of her. As Fiadh must now be living under her husband’s name, tracking her down was even more difficult. Sadly, neither Aila nor anyone at the brothel had been told his name, so it had become a seemingly impossible task to find her.
Avery still sent scouts out searching for her, but Callie was growing increasingly despondent with each passing week, fearing that Fiadh would not be found.
“It would have mean everything tae me if Fiadh could have been here for this moment.”
“And for me too,” Aila assured her, holding her hand tightly. “Yet dinnae despair. We willnae give up but continue tae search for her. Maybe with our relentlessness and good fortune we will someday find her.”
“I pray ye are right.”
“Ah, Callie, fear nae.” Aila kissed her on the cheek warmly. “Today is a happy day indeed. We will find Fiadh, and today, ye become the wife of the man ye love dearly.”
“Ye like him, do ye nae?” Callie asked, surprised how important this had become to her.
“Of course!” Aila declared with eagerness. “He is the man who helped me out of that brothel, so I will always be indebted to him. What is more, I have seen the two of ye together these last few months. Nay couple could be more suited, I think. Except perhaps Laird Chattan and his wife.”
“Aye, Lady Scarlett is an excellent match for him,” Callie said with a laugh, thinking of how big Lady Scarlett had now grown. A few weeks later, her child would appear in this world. “Laird Chattan is tae be the best man today.”
“How lovely,” Aila said with a smile. “Will his brother be there? Ian Chattan?”
“Aye, he will be.” Callie tried not to look at her sister too hard, noting that more than once as of late had Aila asked after Ian. She wondered if he caught her sister’s eye. She knew there was a spark between him and Eloise when they met, yet they became rather good friends, so he was free as a bird. So was Aila.
Maybe it is all in my imagination, but there may be something there.
“Well, let us get ye tae yer wedding.” Aila offered her arm to Callie. “I may nae be the traditional person tae walk ye down the aisle, but –”
“I wouldnae have anyone else do it.” Callie held her sister’s arm tightly as they left the room.
On the tower’s staircase, more than one maid was already throwing dried petals and calling wishes of good luck and fortune. Callie smiled and thanked them all for their kindness, then hurried across the open courtyard with her sister. The sun was shining beautifully above them.
“It seems the sun smiles on yer ceremony today,” Aila called as they slowed their pace near the church.
“Aye. Perhaps it is a sign of good things tae come.” Callie barely stood still as she waited by the closed door of the chapel, arm in arm with her sister.
A guard stood by the door, though he no longer carried a pike or anything else so ready for battle. He bore a ceremonial sword at his hip and vast tartan swathed his shoulder.
“They are ready for you.” He bowed his head in greeting and reached for the door, opening it wide.
The moment the door was open, Callie’s eyes searched for Avery.
Soon, we shall nae have tae part again.
***
“Brother, do stand still,” Scarlett said as she patted her rounded stomach. “Ye seem as if ye have ants in yer trews.” His other sister, Eloise, burst into laughter at their side, then tried to hide the extent of her humor and hung her head forward.
Avery abruptly stilled and looked at his sister with a smile.
“Is that better?” he asked, yet he couldn’t keep still for long and adjusted the tartan strip across his shoulders and the clan brooch on his shirt.
“Marginally,” Scarlett said in answer. “Ye are excited, are ye nae?”
“Exactly, that is why I cannae stand still,” he assured them, his eyes darting around the chapel.
The vicar already waited for them by the altar, and nearby stood Laird Chattan and Ian, both deep in conversation about the arrangements that were to follow later that afternoon and evening. Avery had overheard Scarlett talking with them that morning about a vast feast, though Avery had already planned to sneak away with his wife as soon as possible.
The pews were full of guests, and Avery was touched by how many of his friends he’d made across the clans had come to see him wed, sitting at his side of the pews. There was one face that wasn’t particularly welcome to him, though he knew he had to make peace with the man.
“Have ye spoken tae him yet?” Eloise asked knowingly, elbowing him and pointing at their father.
“Nay,” Avery said with a sigh. “I dinnae how tae. It’s been so long since I have really spoken tae him at all.” He’d merely spoken to the man briefly a year before, around the time of Scarlett’s wedding, when he had gone to his father to help break the news of Scarlett’s existence, something their father had never known. As Avery had suspected, their father kept a cool distance from Scarlett. He treated all of his children much the same.
“Well, as poor a father as he is, at least he was right in one regard,” Scarlett said, tutting.
“What do ye mean?” Avery asked, looking toward her.
“About Ella,” Eloise answered before Scarlett could. The two sisters nodded in unison, their identical looks and movements creating quite a surreal experience for Avery.
“Ye two are too alike sometimes. It’s frightening.” At his words, they shared a humored laugh.
“Ye should say something tae him,” Eloise urged.
“Aye, and as ye do, I need a seat.” Scarlett rested a hand to her rounded stomach. “This baby is becoming more and more uncomfortable. Callie says it is a sign that the baby will come soon.”
Avery smiled, not just thinking of the child he would soon be an uncle to, but the possibility that he might have a child sometime soon too. He and Callie certainly spent most nights together, and often they made love.
He had already planned in his mind that if he was so fortunate as to have a child, he would right the wrongs of the last generation. He would be a better father to that child than his father had been to him, and certainly better than Gowan had ever been to Callie.
“Ye’re right, I must speak to him.” Reluctantly, Avery nodded and agreed with his sisters. They smiled and hurried to the pews, sitting some distance from their father. Slowly, Avery sat down in the empty space beside his father. The haggard features turned toward Avery, clearly stunned at his approach. Kendrick shifted awkwardly in his seat, just as restless as Avery was.
“How are ye?” Kendrick asked after a minute or so of silence.
“I am happy, Father. Aye, happy indeed.” Avery smiled as he looked at Kendrick. His father seemed relieved, sighing, before he smiled too.
“Then I am glad. I ken well enough what sort of man ye think me, Avery, but I am nae entirely devoid of heart. If ye are happy, then that means something tae me.”
“Good.” Avery shifted to face his father fully. “On that matter, there is a discussion that has tae be had between us. Do ye remember Ella?”
“Nae that now.” Kendrick pinched the brow of his nose. “Ye wish tae bring up that maid here? At yer own wedding –?”
“Calm yerself, Father,” Avery said pleadingly. “I am trying tae tell ye that ye were right about her.” Kendrick’s shoulders slumped. He didn’t look pleased to be told he was correct. “She was a woman who sought advantages in life, money, in particular, and at one point she set her cap at me in order tae get it. I owe ye an apology. Ye were nae the one that misjudged her, that was I.”
Kendrick smiled, but it was a rather sad look.
“Then I am sorry tae be right.” He sighed and glanced over his shoulder toward the door that was still closed. “I will admit, I was stunned when I was told ye were tae marry just a castle healer –”
“Father, please.” Avery felt his gut tightening, fearing the old argument resurfacing.
“Yet I hear from Eloise that she is nothing like Ella was. In that case, I am happy for ye indeed.” Kendrick offered his hand to shake.
Avery regarded it with suspicion, sensing a coolness in the air between them. They were never going to be a loving father and son. There had been too many arguments, and they were too different. Avery knew his father lacked benevolence, even empathy, but he didn’t want to turn his back on him, regardless.
“Thank ye.” He took his father’s hand and shook.
The vicar cleared his throat, and Avery released his father’s hand, returning to his place by the altar. Laird Chattan appeared at his side, elbowing him.
“Ready for this, Avery?”
“Aye.”
“It is marriage, a big thing,” Laird Chattan whispered.
“Are ye trying to make me more nervous?” Avery looked at his brother-in-law accusingly who revealed the smallest of mischievous smiles.
“Just checking ye are certain.”
“Oh, I am.” Avery looked at the door as the organ music began playing and the door opened. Callie appeared on her sister’s arm, absolutely beautiful in a dark blue gown with matching flowers in her hair and bouquet. But it was her eyes that he couldn’t take his gaze away from. They were alight with happiness. “I have never been so certain of anything else in my life.”
If you want to know what lies ahead in our story, you may want to get the sequel…
Ian Chattan spins a web of deception, delving into the depths of Aila Mathieson’s hidden secrets, only to realize her sins could lead to her ruin if he doesn’t come to her aid. Oblivious to the whirlwind of emotions awaiting him, he goes with her only to find his soul on fire with each caress. Yet, a love built on lies cannot withstand the winds of truth as they threaten to swallow them whole…
Katherine stood on the shore of Loch Naver and stared out at the water. It was the first time that she had returned to the loch since that day all those years ago with her mother. She remembered her mother sitting reading, her hair shining in the sun. Katherine picked up a stone and skipped it across the water as she had done that day. She watched until it sank beneath the water’s surface.
“Remembering?” Tor asked, coming up to wrap his arms around her.
“Aye, it has been a long time,” replied Katherine.
“Much has changed,” he murmured, nuzzling her ear with his lips. “Ye are safe and loved,” he whispered, to reassure her. He knew that she still sometimes got nervous around large bodies of water, but she had come a long way since that day.
“Aye,” she murmured in agreement, leaning into his arms.
Tor’s hand slipped down to her abdomen. “How is our wee bairn?” he asked.
“Restless and excited tae meet the baby cousin,” she said, smiling down at her belly fondly. I am glad that Katarina agreed tae come tae us. I ken that she does nae have good memories of Strathnaver. I hope the trip is nae unbearable for her.”
“We will make new memories here for the both of ye,” Tor promised. “We should go and meet them now. They will be arriving soon.”
“Aye,” she sighed, turning away from the memories of her past and moving forward into the future with her husband.
The two of them rode to Ian’s so that they could meet the boat as it came to shore. Katherine squealed with delight as Tor’s family climbed out of the boat and clambered onto the shore. Dunn and Tor embraced each other laughing with happiness at their reunion. “I missed ye, brother,” Tor confessed.
“As I did ye,” Dunn admitted, as they turned to grin at Katarina, who was walking up the embankment with their new baby in her arms. Her sisters followed close behind her like a gaggle of worrying hens, making certain that she did not misstep and fall.
Katarina greeted Katherine with a heartfelt smile. “I have missed ye both so very much!” she said.
“As we have missed ye,” Katherine greeted, coming to admire her nephew.
Dunn stepped forward and took the baby from Katarina’s arms. “If I may I introduce ye tae yer nephew, Bran. Bran, this is yer Uncle Tor,” Dunn said and handed the baby to Tor to hold and grinned in pride at the sight.
Katherine looked on with a smile. Tor will make a wonderful father.
“We brought a guest,” Katarina informed her gently. “I hope that ye dinnae mind.”
Katherine turned back to Katarina. “Ye may bring whomever ye wish. I ken that this is a difficult visit for ye tae make. Ye dinnae have happy memories here,” Katherine said.
Katarina smiled at her gently, her eyes filled with compassion. “This guest is not for my comfort,” she said.
“Oh?” Katherine’s brows arched in question.
“I have brought our aunt from Rome,” said Katarina.
Katherine’s eyes opened wide with surprise. “Aunt?” she asked.
Katarina’s aunt stepped out of the boat and grabbed Katherine’s hands. “Katherine, my brother’s daughter, it is a great pleasure to finally meet you.” I have heard many things about you, and I must say that your father would have been proud of the strength that you have shown,” she said.
Katherine couldn’t speak because her throat was clogged with tears. She fought back a sob as she shifted her gaze between Katarina and their aunt. She had feared that she would never see the aunt Katarina had mentioned. She assumed she’d never meet anyone else from their family because what little remained of it was scattered across the known world. Their aunt had married the head of another important Romani family in the vicinity of Rome. Her duty was to her new people, but she had already left them behind to travel to the north of Scotland to see Katarina. She’d done the same for Katherine, a niece she’d never met. The emotion of it all overwhelmed her, and her control slipped away, leaving her to cry in her aunt’s arms.
“Katherine, my Katherine, do not cry,” her aunt soothed her, rubbing her back.
“I thought that I might never see ye,” she sniffed, trying to get her emotions under control.
“When Katarina wrote to me telling me that she had found you, I knew that I had to come. I miss my brothers every day. Having you girls gives me a piece of them back,” their aunt said. She opened her arms wider to embrace all four girls at the same time. “My beautiful nieces.”
Dunn and Tor smiled at the sight. “She also had tae come and see her new grandnephew,” said Dunn who beamed with pride as he took his son back from Tor.
Katarina smiled as she untangled herself from the group and retrieved her son from her husband. “Indeed, she did,” she said.
“And what a beautiful grandnephew he is,” their aunt praised, smiling at mother and child.
“Bran is nae the only grandnephew or niece that ye will need tae come and visit auntie,” Tor announced, smiling at Katherine as she moved away from the group hug and took a step back.
“Oh, aye?” Dunn inquired raising a brow.
“Katherine is with child,” Tor announced, also beaming with pride.
Joy spread across every face present. Katherine’s cousins rushed forward to embrace her once more, the younger two talking about names and rubbing her belly speaking to the bairn within. Katherine did not know what to make of all of it, but Tor just stood back and laughed with pure joy. Their aunt stepped forward and placed her hand on Katarina’s belly, moving the other girls out of the way. She murmured something in the Romani language that Katherine did not understand.
“What is happening?” Katherine asked, confused.
Katarina smiled and explained, “She is blessing yer child. It is the way of our people.”
“Our people,” Katherine murmured. She looked into their aunt’s eyes. “Please, tell me of my father.”
Smiling, her aunt laced her arm through Katherine’s and they walked together along the shore, speaking of many heartfelt memories.
***
Later that night, Tor and Katherine were lying in bed together thinking about the events of the day. It had been a bittersweet time, and neither of them would have traded it. Tor laid his hand on her belly, rubbing it in soothing circles. “I told Dunn that we wished for him and Katarina tae be the bairn’s godparents,” he said.
“Did he agree?” asked Katherine.
“He said that they would be honored,” answered Tor.
Katherine nodded, smiling softly. “What did auntie say to ye before she went tae bed that made ye laugh so much?” she asked him.
Tor chuckled in amusement. “She said that had she kent that there were so many handsome men in Scotland who loved Romani women, she might have waited tae wed until now,” he said.
Katherine laughed. “She didnae mean it. Katarina said that she is very much in love with her husband,” she said.
“Aye, I ken that. I didnae take her seriously. She just amuses me,” Tor said.
Katherine smiled. “I like her,” she said.
“As do I. She loves ye and that is enough for me,” said Tor.
Katherine nestled into his side, laying her head on his chest. “Ye ken, I was thinking that we have come a long way from hating one another,” she said.
“Aye, that is true. But I cannae imagine hating ye now, my pretty wife,” he said.
“Neither do I, my loving husband,” said Katherine and traced her fingers through his chest hair. “What we have is a blessed miracle, given how it started.”
Tor pulled her tight against his side. “We have accomplished much with yer people. They have come tae trust my judgment and yer tender care. By the time that the bairn comes, we will be ready tae provide him with a safe secure home,” Tor said.
“Supposing that Alistair Morgan does nae return,” said Katherine.
Tor kissed the top of her head. “He cannae harm ye now. Dead or alive, he is beyond this place and willnae be allowed tae return, whether by God’s edict or the king’s. Ye can rest in the knowledge of that,” he reassured her.
Sighing, Katherine let her fears go and settled back against his side. He was right. She had to trust that he would keep her safe and that the life they were building together could not and would not be destroyed by the life of one man. “May God forgive him, for I surely willnae,” she said.
Tor smiled against her skin. “And ye should nae, love.” He leaned down and kissed her lips softly. “I love ye more than life itself,” he breathed against her skin.
“And I ye,” she whispered.
“Remain with me always,” he said and kissed her again.
“Always and forever,” she promised.
He kissed her once more, this time with passion. He gently moved to hover above her. He slid his hand beneath her nightdress as he kissed her deeply, fingering the nub beneath her nether curls. His lips moved down her throat, across her shoulders, and down to the top of her breasts. Pulling her nightdress up and over her head, he exposed the delicious mounds of her breasts. Leaning down, he took each breast into his mouth in turn and suckled gently at first, then harder, as she weaved her fingers through his hair pressing him closer.
“Tor,” she moaned his name and he smiled against the smooth white flesh of her tender breasts. He moved his hand back down her body, caressing every inch until he once again reached the sensitive bud. He massaged the bud beneath her nether curls until she began to thrash about in a frenzy of need.
“Tor,” she whispered his name in ecstasy as she crashed over the edge of bliss.
“Katherine,” Tor growled with the fierceness of his own need.
Katherine ripped at the ties of his trews and shoved them down out of the way spreading her legs to receive him. Coming back up to reclaim her lips, he buried himself deep inside her with a single thrust all the way to the hilt.
“My love,” Katherine cried out as he sank his full length into her and she wrapped her legs around his waist.
“My love,” Tor whispered back. “My heart, my soul, my life…”
“Yer wife,” Katherine murmured, as they two became one.
If you want to know what lies ahead in our story, you may want to get the sequel…
Bran McLeod, believed to be dead, is compelled to obey his enemy’s orders to protect his daughter. However, he plans their escape after one final mission: kidnapping a lass. Little does he know that their paths have crossed before and he has exchanged his own life to rescue hers. As he wrestles with his feelings for her and the risks involved, Bran faces a challenging decision: save the woman he loves or risk his daughter’s life. Because he knows there’s no way to spare them both…
“Avery!” Scarlett called to her brother as she watched him cross the drawbridge.
When he reached the courtyard, she and Noah hurried to greet him.
Over the last year, brother and sister had written to one another often, and though there was still much to learn about him, they had already formed a close bond
I love him dearly. I am only sorry that we missed being together our whole lives.
“’Tis wonderful it tae see ye in the flesh. Letters are good, but nae substitute for seeing ye with my own eyes.” He opened his arms wide, and she embraced him enthusiastically. “How are ye, sister?”
“I am well.” She had news to share with him, great news that she and Noah kept so far. “I have so looked forward tae yer arrival.”
Noah clapped his brother-in-law on the back, embracing him in welcome.
“I’m pleased tae hear it. We have a great feast prepared for ye, enough to keep us all at the table for some time.”
“He’s right,” Scarlett agreed. “I vow tae keep ye at that table until I hear about all yer travels and what it was ye had tae attend tae so soon after our wedding.”
“That is a long tale. Give me a chance tae freshen up before we begin the interrogation?” He chuckled.
“Agreed. Tonight, we celebrate yer return. She turned to her husband. “Can we tell him tonight?” she whispered. “Please? I ken we have tae keep it a secret from the clan for a while, but this is my brother.”
“Aye, we can,” Noah smiled, “as long as we can tell my brother too. Ian watches the two of us so much, I’m certain he kens. He even wondered why I ask after yer health so much. He must have guessed.”
“Guessed what?” Ian’s voice came from the hall as he approached.
“In the name of the wee man, Ian, ye will give us both heart attacks. We have news tae share, but ‘tis nae tae be said yet,” Noah explained.
“What a surprise,” Ian said straight-faced. “I may have guessed what yer news might be.”
“News? What’s this?” Avery joined them to join the conversation.
She reached for Avery’s. “Come, let’s hear all about yer travels now.”
“Ye’re back and she forgets me so easily,” Noah teased as he trailed behind them, into the dining room.
“Ha! Longing for my departure already, my Laird?” Avery asked, glancing over his shoulder.
“Nay indeed. And ye can call me Noah.” He brushed off the title as he strode into the room and took his place at the head of the table.
“In fact, Noah and I wished tae say tae ye, Avery,” Scarlett paused as she released his arm and took her place beside Noah, “ye can stay for as long as ye wish tae.”
“Truly?” Avery jerked his chin upward in surprise as he sat on Scarlett’s other side. “I can?”
“Of course.” Noah said. “Ye are family, and family are welcome.”
“I’d certainly prefer it tae returning tae our father’s house,” Avery’s voice lowered with the words, and he shook his head.
Scarlett smiled rather sadly. Since her existence had been revealed to her father, he had attempted some sort of a relationship and written to her a few times. Yet in the last year, that had amounted to just three letters. He evidently struggled with the suspicion that her mother could have been a witch, for the superstitious whispers still ran high, and he didn’t know how to be with Scarlett.
We will be better apart from each other.
“Ye are always welcome here,” Scarlett assured him as she lifted a jug of mead and began to pour.
“Still the tavern girl?” Avery teased her, nodding his head at how she poured out the mead.
“It’s a habit she cannae break,” Noah said, sighing as he leaned back in his vast chair and looked toward her.
“She willnae bother tae break it either,” Ian joined in and began to pass plates around the table, so they could all serve themselves.
“I’m happy as I am,” Scarlett insisted. The way Noah’s foot nudged hers under the table showed he loved her as she was too. She smiled at him, showing she felt what he meant. “How are Eloise’s travels?” Scarlett asked.
“Last I heard, she was still on the continent. Aye, she is adoring her freedom.” Avery smiled with the words.
Scarlett became distracted as Callie came into the room.
“Lady Scarlett, here ye are.” Callie presented her with a small vial. “This should help ye.”
“Ah, thank ye.” Scarlett took the vial and placed it beside her mead cup. It was to help remedy some of the sickness she was feeling, now she was carrying her first child. When Callie didn’t retreat, Scarlett looked up to see her staring at Avery. He did a double take, glancing at her twice before his lips parted.
Wait… do they ken each other?
“Have ye met before?” Noah said before anyone else could.
“Nay.” Avery answered hurriedly, tearing his gaze from Callie. A blush spread across her cheeks and Scarlett caught her eye, raising her eyebrows. That blush was all Scarlett needed to know.
They have met before. What else could that look have meant?
“Nay, yer brother just looked like someone I have met. Long ago. My apologies. If ye would excuse me.” Callie bobbed a curtsy and hastened from the room. Scarlett was ready to call out and ask her to join them, for she often persuaded Callie to sit at their table these days, but she did not get a chance.
“Will ye nae ask who that was?” Ian said with something of a mischievous tone.
“Oh, aye.” Avery was pulling at the collar of his waistcoat, looking abruptly flushed himself. “Who was she?”
“Callie, our healer,” Scarlett explained, staring at her brother with hooded eyes.
Aye, something is amiss, though he willnae say what it is.
“And her treatment for ye? What is that for?” Avery motioned to the vial beside Scarlett’s goblet. Sighing, she looked toward Noah, knowing they could no longer keep it a secret. He cleared his throat and leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table.
“Well, I shall tell them then, but ye two must keep this a secret for us. We dinnae wish for the clan tae ken yet.”
“I can guess what it is,” Ian said, raising his mead cup to his lips. “Let me say this, will the sound of tiny running feet be sounding through the castle corridors soon enough?” When Noah glowered at him and Scarlett continued to smile, he clasped his hands together triumphantly. “I kent it!”
“Ye are with child!?” Avery said loudly, leaning toward her.
“Shh! What do ye nae understand about nae wishing the whole castle tae ken?” she protested.
“Aye, I’m sorry, but congratulations tae ye both! I’m delighted.” Avery bent toward her and laid a hand across her shoulders. It was a comforting and warm touch, one that made her smile again.
“Thank ye. As are we.” Noah’s foot nudged Scarlett’s under the table, and she looked toward him.
Aye, very happy indeed.
“So, we may have an heir tae the clan soon enough.” Ian raised his cup in the air. “Now, that is something we should toast.” They all raised their cups in unison. “Tae the future of the clan and yer child, may they be as happy as ye two are now.”
If you want to know what lies ahead in our story, you may want to get the sequel…
Avery MacTavish is on a mission: to find his first love and avenge those responsible for her misfortune. But when his path crosses with Callie, a lass who owes him her life, he is drawn to her in ways he never imagined possible. But how can Avery keep his vow when all he desires is to succumb to Callie’s charm, thus risking everything he holds dear? Especially when he has no idea she is on her own mission that will leave him with a shattered heart…
Ciara smiled as she watched her newborn baby sleep soundly, and her heart filled with joy at the beautiful sight in front of her. Her smile widened when he suddenly stretched and let out a sweet little yawn before wrapping his tiny hand around the finger she had been running up and down his arm.
Ciara let out a yawn herself. It had been exactly one month since she had given birth to her baby, and while he was such a beautiful angel she was not used to catering to the high demand a child often came with. She refused to let anyone else take care of him, refusing the offer of a wet nurse even. This was her chance to create a bond with the life she had carried inside her, and nothing would get in her way.
She would give him the life and the family she never had, and nothing made her happier than knowing her child would never have to suffer her fate.
She shivered as she remembered how intense her labor had been. Ronan had been a restless baby in her womb, constantly kicking and turning, as though he was impatient to come out and greet the world. There were days when she woke up extremely tired, yet nothing could have prepared her for how intense his birth had been. A panicked Aidan had run out in search of Maria the moment her water had broken, and soon the pain came as she prepared to welcome the life she had carried inside of her for nine long months.
At one point, Ciara had looked up to see the worried look on Maria’s face, before she rushed out and returned soon enough with some concoction that she encouraged Ciara to drink. Soon the sound of her crying baby filled the air, and the door had opened to show Aidan with tears in his eyes as he reached out to touch their son.
Now Aidan’s hands wrapped around hers, and he placed his head on her shoulder as he stared in wonder at their sleeping babe. He had had that same look of awe on his face since the day his son was born, and it seemed he would not be losing it anytime soon. Ciara did not know what it was about the sight of his face, but something in it made her heart swell and her eyes fill with tears of joy.
She blinked to stop herself from tearing up. He had been a wonderful and supportive husband during this time, always eager to take care of the baby and trying to coax her to relax whenever he thought she had overworked herself. Her eyes would close, and she would hear him come into the room where she had begun to rest, and he would place a soft lingering kiss on her forehead.
Aidan had not been sleepwalking, and she could not have been more grateful. She had woken up so many nights to make sure he was asleep beside her and was always glad to find him there. They did not even have to lock the doors anymore. On the few nights Ciara had woken up to find his side of the bed empty, she had known where to find him. He would always be in Ronan’s room, watching over him as he slept and sometimes rocking him back to sleep if he was restless.
“I still cannae get over how perfect he is,” Aidan whispered into her ear, careful to not wake him up. “Thank ye for making him.” He kissed her once again before returning his stare to the child. As he did, his hand lowered to caress her stomach, and Ciara smiled.
There were so many things that had made her pregnancy easier, and many of those things revolved around Aidan and her newfound family. Maria had made sure to check up on her and give her herbal mixtures that would alleviate whatever cramp she was feeling. Darragh and Hannah had made sure that she was never bored. Her Aidan, her very protective Aidan, had done exactly what he had promised. He made sure to shield her from whatever could harm her or make her sad. He gave her whatever she wanted and what she didn’t even realize she needed. He was so in tune with her emotions and needs that Ciara wondered whether he could read her mind.
So far everything has been wonderful, and she could not have asked for better. She sighed with contentment and pulled away from her husband to stare into the crib once again.
“I received a letter from Darragh. He said he is on his way back and is excited to see Ronan,” Aidan said, pulling her away from her thoughts.
Ciara was excited at the news. Darragh had been on a trip to broker new trade deals with other clans for a long while, and also to prepare for the time when the MacNeil clan would be joined to the MacDonald clan.
A few months after their troubles, her father had passed on the battlefield, struck down by one of his countless enemies. A lot of things needed to be sorted before Aidan met the new leader of Clan MacNeil, a young man who had won the title by vote, given the scarcity of Keir’s heirs. Darragh was the one in charge of taking care of these things and making certain everything went smoothly.
Ciara was not the only one who had missed Darragh, however. It had saddened her to see Hannah sitting alone, staring out into space, visibly sad. She knew that their romance had not blossomed into anything more while they were together, but she felt bad for the girl who was clearly in love with him. It was obvious for everyone to see. Yet who knew what would happen when he came back…
“That is wonderful news, Aidan,” Ciara said after a while. “I have missed him, and I ken that ye have as well.”
Her mind flashed to her sister-in-law. Lillie had been drawn to Ronan the moment she saw him, asking if she could give him a name. Ciara had been so touched by Lillie’s display of love that she had agreed to it without thinking twice.
Ciara and Aidan were wrapped in each other’s arms in silence when they heard a knock on the door, and they turned to see Lillie, who smiled at both of them as she made her way in.
“There’s my favorite person,” she said as she got closer.
“Ye are speaking of me, aye?” Ciara teased and smiled brightly.
“What? Och, of course, I mean my second favorite person.” Lillie smiled teasingly at both of them and walked to the opposite side of the crib, peering at the still-sleeping Ronan. “Och, he’s so precious,” she cooed. “I cannae get over how perfect he is, nae matter how many times I see him.”
The parents smiled and nodded in agreement. “I suppose that is why ye have completely abandoned us now that ye have this perfect little human to play with. How cruel ye are, Lillie,” Aidan chastised playfully.
“Well, maybe if ye looked anything like this,” Lillie gestured at Ronan, “I would want to play with ye, but ye dinnae and it is no fault of mine.”
“Ye wound me, sister.” Aidan placed a hand on his chest, a mock frown on his face, and Ciara rolled her eyes, stifling her laughter at their antics.
“I will be taking my love with me,” Lillie said, as she picked Ronan up. “Only beautiful people allowed.”
The laughter Ciara was holding escaped her lips as Aidan glared at his sister before smiling. “Ye are lucky I love ye, else I wouldnae stand fer this betrayal,” he said to Lillie.
Ciara smiled. Everything was right in her world. She had the love of the people that mattered to her, and there was nothing about it that she would change.
If you want to know what lies ahead in our story, you may want to get the sequel…
Darragh MacDonald follows a perilous path when, unbeknownst to him, he saves Lara, his enemy’s daughter; surrendering to his irresistible temptation. Little does he know, a single sinful lie will be the only thing protecting his life once her father finds out: that he has taken her hand in marriage. Yet as their deceit happens to break an old vow, it turns out Lara’s father will not be the biggest danger they must face…
Katarina stood atop the battlements and watched the clan’s men and women bringing in the first harvests from the fields beyond. It had been a year since they had fought the bloody battle to keep Orkney safe from the clutches of Alistair Morgan. She thought for a brief moment of Morgan’s trial but pushed it from her mind. Today was a day for happy thoughts. She gently caressed her belly, smiling softly to herself. She had not yet told Dunn the good news, but she planned to do so that very night after the celebrations. It was Lammastide, which just so happened to also be Adamina’s day of birth. Everyone would be coming to the castle for the celebrations.
Idalia and Leonor had gone to Rome to deliver the news of their parents and grandparents’ deaths to their aunt. Katarina had been scared to let them go, but Dunn had assigned them to be guarded by Ewan and Andrew, along with several other of their men. They had been gone for some time but were to return at any moment if fair weather held. Tor was about the business of the king. It was unclear whether he would be able to return, as he now held his own responsibilities apart from the clan that kept him away most of the time.
Returning to the hall to continue preparations for the evening’s festivities, Katarina inhaled the delicious scent of bread coming from the kitchen. Baking bread was an important part of the Lammastide tradition using the first wheat harvested. The cook had been baking all morning. Katarina’s stomach rumbled at the delicious smells, and she tore a piece from one of the finished loaves. It was fresh, warm, and just what her body needed. “My lady,” the cook greeted her with a smile. “Does it meet with yer approval?”
“It does,” Katarina nodded with a smile. “Our people will be well fed this night.”
The cook nodded in acknowledgment of the compliment. “They will indeed. Let us pray that yer sisters make it home i time tae enjoy the fruits o’ our labors.”
“I have faith that Ewan and Andrew will get them here as promised.”
“And the laird’s brother, our own dear Tor?”
Katarina shook her head. “It is not certain.”
The cook shook her head sorrowfully.
“He has his own responsibilities now.”
The cook frowned at this and spat on the floor. “He is ours, nae the king’s.”
Katarina nodded. “We do what we must. What he does, he does for us.”
Nodding, the cook went back to work, grumbling under her breath about the cost of the crown upon the clan and their dear sweet Tor being dragged into it all. Katarina stifled a smile and left the kitchen before she could get into trouble for an inappropriate remark about Tor perhaps being a willing sacrifice to the king’s wishes. Feeling tired, she went to her bedchamber and laid down for a moment on the bed. There was much work to be done, so she did not intend to lie down for long. But before she knew it, she was fast asleep.
***
Dunn came in from the fields to find his wife sound asleep in her bedchamber. She never slept in the middle of the day unless she was ill. Concerned, he crawled into bed next to her and pulled her into his arms to feel if she was feverish. Stirring, her eyes opened, and she smiled up at him sweetly. “Are ye unwell, lass?” he asked, brushing the hair back from her face.
She shook her head. “I was simply tired. I did not mean to fall asleep.”
Dunn smiled in relief. “Ye have been working hard. Ye deserve a rest. Are ye certain that naught is amiss? Ye did nae break the fast this morning.”
Katarina gave him a knowing smile, and he raised a brow in question. Taking his hand, she laid it across her lower abdomen. “I am with child, Dunn.”
Dunn’s heart stopped, then raced forward with a powerful force as what she said to him sank in. “Ye are with child?”
“I am.” She nodded, her expression one of excitement.
Dunn squeezed her tight, kissing her passionately. “When?” he finally asked when he came up for air.
“Sometime in late winter to early spring.”
Dunn looked down into her eyes and felt as if they held his entire world. “A wee bairn,” he breathed in awe as he gently caressed her stomach.
“Aye, a wee bairn,” she mimicked his Scottish brogue, and he laughed. She had gone back to speaking with her own native voice when they had told the clan the truth about her, but every once in a while, she would speak in the way of his people. His heart always warmed at the sound of it.
“I pray that the wee bairn has yer eyes,” he murmured, nuzzling her neck as he sprinkled kisses all along it. He leaned back to look into her eyes and saw tears there. “What is it, my love?”
She shook her head and brushed the tears away. “I only wish that my mother and father were alive.”
“As do I.” Dunn understood her feelings all too well. He held her close for some time before either of them spoke again.
“If we have a son, I know what I would like to name him, but I do not know how you will feel about it.”
“What is it? If it is after yer faither, I would consider it. It would make the bairn’s life harder, but we could prepare him for that.”
Katarina shook her head. “I would not wish to cause our son further difficulty than his inheritance already will bring him in life.”
Dunn nodded. “I am sorry, lass. I wish it were not so difficult.”
Katarina nodded. “I know that. You have done well for your people. I am proud of ye.”
“I ken well enough the burdens that the future leaders o’ our people will carry tae their graves. The difficulties will nae cease with me, as they did nae cease with my faither or grandfaither. In time, I hope that it will be different, but that is for us tae see tae as each day comes. I dinnae wish tae burden him with my faither or grandfaither’s given names either. The crown does nae need tae be reminded o’ past rebellions. He will bear my surname. That will be enough.”
Katarina nodded. “I understand.”
Dunn kissed her on the forehead. “What name did ye have in mind, lass?”
“Bran,” she whispered the name as if it were holy.
Dunn gave her a squeeze of reassurance. “It is a braw name tae be certain, a worthy name indeed.”
“He gave his life in an attempt to save mine. I want to honor that sacrifice. He was not able to bear sons of his own, but his memory will live on in ours.”
“Aye,” Dunn nodded, burying his face in her hair. He breathed in the scent of her and closed his eyes. The thought of her in danger made his entire being tense with the need to protect her. He pulled back and looked her in the eyes. “If we have a son, he will be called Bran.”
“When Andrew arrives with my sisters, I would like to tell him of our decision.”
Dunn nodded. “Aye, I have nae doubt that he would very much like tae hear such bonnie tidings.”
“It is a terrible thing that we were not able to have his body returned for a proper burial.”
“It was never found. Andrew beat the truth out o’ the Morgan master o’ arms.” A shiver passed over Katarina’s body, and he squeezed her tighter. “Let us think upon happier things, my love. We have much tae be grateful for.”
“We do,” she answered, wiping the tears from her eyes.
“We can announce our joy tae all before the evening’s feast.”
“My sisters will be overjoyed.”
“As will mine.”
They both smiled at the thought. A knock at the door interrupted their private moment. “Enter,” Dunn answered, sitting up to see who was at the door.
One of the guards entered the room and nodded his head in respect. “My laird, my lady, they have returned.”
***
Katarina squealed with delight and leaped up out of bed at a run. Dunn laughed and followed close behind her. They raced down the stairs, across the courtyard, and down the path to the shoreline where the boats came in. Katarina was out of breath by the time she got there. As soon as her sisters’ feet touched solid ground, she engulfed them in a hug. “I have missed you both so very much!”
Dunn stepped forward and clasped arms with both Ewan and Andrew in turn. “It is good tae have ye home again.”
“We brought guests,” Ewan announced and turned to help a woman out of the boat.
Katarina’s eyes opened wide with surprise. “Aunt?”
Katarina’s aunt stepped out of the boat and into her arms. “Katarina, my darling niece, it has been too long. I hear that you have had many adventures since last we saw one another.”
Katarina could not speak for the tears clogging her throat. She sobbed into her aunt’s hair. She had thought that she might never see her again. Her aunt had married the leader of another important Romani family—her duty was to her new people, and yet she had left them behind and come all the way to the north of Scotland to see her. The emotion of it was too much to bear, and she could do nothing but cry. Her aunt simply held her until she could get her emotions under control.
“My Katarina, my beautiful Katarina, do not cry.” She said, wiping the tears from her cheeks.
“I thought that I might never see you again,” she sniffed, trying to get herself together.
“When Idalia and Leonor told me what happened, I knew that I had to come.” She turned her head to eye Dunn’s tall, formidable form standing protectively next to them and smiled. “But I see now why you decided to stay.”
Dunn smiled. “Ye have come at an auspicious time, Auntie.”
Katarina smiled at his use of the familial term. “Indeed, you have,” she agreed, taking a step back to stand beside her husband so that she might tell all of them at once. “I am with child.”
Joy spread across every face present. Her sisters rushed forward to embrace her once more and to coo over her belly, speaking to the bairn within. Katarina laughed. Her aunt stepped forward and placed her hand on her belly. She murmured a Romani blessing that brought tears to Katarina’s eyes once more. Ewan and Andrew stepped forward to deliver their well wishes.
“My lady,” Ewan brought her hand to his lips, then stepped back to allow Andrew to do the same.
“There is something that Dunn and I wish to share with you.”
“Aye?” he asked, his brows arched in inquisition.
“We have decided that should our child be a son, we will name him Bran, after your brother.”
Andrew stilled, and his eyes met Katarina’s. “I thank ye, my lady. Bran would have been honored tae have yer bairn bear his name.” Breaking with his usual reserved form, he stepped forward, embraced her, kissed her softly on the cheek, then stepped back. Nodding his congratulations to Dunn, he walked away.
Ewan stood with his jaw dropped. “That is the most emotion I have ever seen him show outside o’ rage at Morgan for killing his brother.”
“Andrew has lost much,” Dunn murmured in sympathy. “He is the last o’ his family.”
“He has us,” Katarina reminded him.
“Aye, he does.”
“We are his family, and he should not be allowed to forget that.” Squeezing her husband’s hand, she ran after Andrew, stopped him, threw arms around him, stood on tiptoe to kiss his cheek, then laid his hand on her belly. She knew that people were watching, but she did not care. His brother had tried to save her life, and she would never forget that or the debt that she owed his family. “You are a part of our family, now and forever. This bairn will be as a nephew to you and you an uncle to it. You are bound by blood and by name to this child, always. Do you accept this solemn duty?”
Andrew, strong, masculine, brave Andrew, stood there with tears in his eyes and dropped to his knees, his hand still on her belly. “Aye, I do here pledge ye my oath. By blood and by name, I bind myself tae this bairn, and only in death will I be parted from it.” Rising, he bowed at the waist. “My lady.” This time when he walked away, Katarina let him go. She had no wish to make him cry in front of his fellow clansmen. There were some things a person needed to do alone.
She turned back to where her own family stood and thought back over everything that had happened to them. It was a mixture of the most traumatic of sorrows and the greatest of joys. In a little over a year’s time, she had lost nearly every person that she loved, regained her sisters, married, and now was expecting a baby.
Had someone told her that running from August Raymond would result in all of that, she would have told them they were of unsound mind. Now, August Raymond was nowhere in sight, Alistair Morgan had been dealt with, and her family was finally back together. She could feel her parent’s spirits with her. She murmured a prayer for their souls.
Walking back over to Dunn, he enfolded her into his warm embrace. “I am proud o’ ye,” he whispered. “Ye are more o’ a wife than I ever could have dreamed o’ having. Ye are the lass that God meant for me tae wed, o’ that I have nae doubt, but ye are more than that. Ye are the true lady o’ my people, the true lady o’ my heart.” He kissed her deeply, then leaned back to look into her eyes. “A curse may have brought ye tae me, but ye are truly a blessing gifted from God himself.”
Katarina smiled up at him, her eyes filled with tears. “Nothing so pure as our love could ever come from a cursed heart, my love. The curse did not bring us together. Only God himself could have foreseen a match such as ours.”
Dunn laid his hand on her belly. “And the bairn? What will we tell him o’ his beginnings? Will we tell him o’ the evil that Morgan wrought or o’ Esmerelda’s curse and why it was cast?”
Katarina thought about his words for a moment. “I believe that we must. For those we have lost live on in our memories. If we do not remember them and the sacrifices that they made, then it is as if they have died once more. It will bring us pain to speak of it and will bring our children pain to hear of it, but it is the only way that we can be true to those that are gone. I want our children to remember where they came from. I want our love to live on through them. And that will not be possible if we are not truthful with them about what brought them here. Are you with me?”
Dunn smiled down into her eyes, his love for her clear upon his face. “Always.”
If you want to know what lies ahead in our story, you may want to get the sequel…
Katherine Morgan’s world is turned upside down when she is forced to marry by royal decree in order to save her father from the noose. However, when she discovers that her groom is Tor Leòideach, the man who sentenced her father to death, she walks down the aisle with a heavy heart and buried truths on the tip of her tongue. Katherine risks everything to keep her end of the bargain as their mutual desire grows stronger. But she’ll soon realize there’s no way out of this mess without a broken heart…
