Extended Epilogues

 

Two months later

After all the weeks they’d been away, savoring each other’s company, travelling together, their homecoming was bittersweet.

Now she’d have to share Gillebride with his duties, while she would be forever under the watchful eyes of her family. All the same, Arya’s heart lifted at the distant sight of the castle tower as they approached through the glen.

It had been an exciting time.

After their wedding they’d travelled to Badenoch so Gilly could discuss the estate with his cousin Angus, who was now the Laird of the MacThomas Clan in Gillebride’s late father’s place.

While he bore Angus no ill will and was content to leave him in charge of the clan, Angus was stiff and suspicious in his company and they’d spent as little time there as possible.

Gillebride mused on his father’s fate. “I dinnae mourn him, Arya,” he’d confided, “but the hatred I bore him all those years is gone. His death from a flaming arrow has brought some justice tae the death of me wife and daughter by fire.”

Arya tightened her grip on his hand and reached to kiss him.

When they at last turned their backs on Castle MacThomas and rode away, there was a sense between them that some score had been settled and they could now look to the future and move beyond the past.

Gillebride was keen to return to Castle Ardtun to settle matters with the MacKinnons. As he would not be returning, he wished them to be aware of his newfound happiness with Arya, and to thank them for all the courtesies of their home and clan they’d showered him with over the years.

They were welcomed by Blaine, Ivy and the twins, and Errol, Edina and her sisters, and spent a happy time there. They left bearing good wishes and messages of love for Hannah.

For the rest of the time, they meandered. Taking their time to sit by the shores of Loch Linnhe and catch a fish or two, finding inns with comfortable beds where they could rest and make love all night.

Finally, before setting off on the final leg of their journey home, they stayed two nights with the Camerons, supping on delicious French dishes, Arya taking note of all the pretty French touches Adèle had wrought, in the hope that she could do the same in the castle they were planning in which she and Gillebride would make their home.

As they finally approached the portcullis of Castle MacDonell, Arya breathed a deep, happy sigh.

“Home at last,” she said, smiling at Gilly. They urged their horses to a canter and waited impatiently while the gate was slowly raised.

A cheer broke out as they rode into the keep. There, on the castle steps were all the servants, and a beaming Nicol, the seneschal. Hurrying across the cobblestones were Payton, Taveon and Hannah, their faces wreathed in smiles.

“It’s good tae see ye,” Payton said, lifting Arya off her feet for a hug while Taveon seized Gillebride in a bear hug.

Hannah, her eyes alight with excitement, gave Arya kisses on both cheeks and then wove her arms around Gillebride as soon as Taveon released him.

“Our scouts rode in a while ago with the news they’d spotted yer party along the glen. We’ve a fine feast awaiting ye once ye’ve cleared the dust of travel from yer faces,” Payton said.

They retreated to their bedchamber where Arya changed from the britches she’d been wearing for riding into a freshly laundered blouse and kirtle.

She was seated in front of her mirror undoing her braids when Gillebride approached. After planting soft kisses at her nape, he finished unravelling the last of the braids, easing her tangles through his fingers. He took the brush from her table and set about gently brushing her hair.

Holding the shining tresses in his hands, he breathed in deeply. “How I love the sweet scent of roses in yer hair,” he muttered, bending to kiss her lips.

Lost in a long, luxurious kiss, they missed the sound of a gentle tap on their door and the creak as the door swung open.

It was Taveon, who cleared his throat as they pulled apart, laughing at the sight of him looking so flustered.

“Sorry tae disturb ye,” he said, “but Payton is waiting impatiently in the great hall fer ye tae dine with us. He’s eager tae hear of yer travels and tae give ye our news.”

Hand in hand they followed Taveon down the stairs. Since the happy day of their wedding, it was such joy to openly walk hand in hand in front of all the castle.

The cooks had done a fine job of preparing roast venison and wildfowl, rabbit stew, carrots, nips, and a heap of wild greens foraged from the woods. The dessert was a delicious custard swirled with whipped cream, raspberries, blackcurrants and strawberries.

“Has aught been heard from the MacQuarries?” Gillebride asked.

Beside him, Arya caught her breath, a tiny chill running through her.

Payton smiled and shook his head. “I believe the new laird has his hands full dealing with the ruffians that surrounded his father. But he’s a strong-willed lad and I daresay we’ll have nae more trouble with his clan.”

Taveon shook his head. “There’ll be nae more talk of vengeance or bloodshed. The MacQuarries will change their ways soon enough.”

While they dined, Hannah sat quietly. “Once the men have taken tae the study I wish tae show ye how yer roses are blooming in the garden. I’ve tended them in yer absence and they give me great pleasure. But I’m so happy ye’re here again. I’ve been longing fer me sister’s return.”

Replete after the dining that went on, even after they’d eaten and drunk their fill, Arya looked forward to a stroll in the garden. She and Arya got to their feet from the long timber table and headed for the rose arbor.

Gillebride joined the others in Payton’s study, no doubt to quaff a few drams of whisky and regale them with stories of their travels. In particular, he would pass on the plans for the coming wars he’d learned from Blaine and Errol at Ardtun.

The breeze in the garden was fresh and cool and Arya drew her shawl over her shoulders as they strolled in the perfumed air to the arbor to take a seat there.

Remembering the time she’d sat here with Gillebride and the kisses they’d shared brought a smile to her lips.

Hannah sat, patting the space next to her.

“Sit down dear Arya, I have much tae tell ye.”

Arya looked up at the sound of a loud “Meow,” and a large furry form emerged from a shady spot.

“Grimalkin,” she cried, lifting the purring moggie into her arms. “Ye’re here at last.”

Hannah chuckled. “Aye, all our baggage arrived last week. Yer wee pots of herbs are doing well. I’ve put them near the infirmary where Sister Margaret is watering them and keeping an eye on them.”

“Ah,” Arya said leaning back, cradling the bundle of fur in her arms. “I am so happy.”

Hannah clapped. “And I am so happy fer both of us.”

Arya looked at her friend. Hannah’s eyes were shining and her cheeks, so thin and pale when she and Gillebride had left a little more than a month ago, were plump and flushed with pink.

“Ye look well, Hannah.”

“And so I am.” She took Arya’s hand. “I have such wonderful news.”

Arya caught a breath. “Ye’re nae…?”

Hannah nodded excitedly. “Aye. I’m tae have a bairn of me own before long.”

Now it was Arya’s turn to clap. She leaned over to give Hannah a kiss, dislodging Grimalkin, who meowed in protest as he slid to the grass at Arya’s feet and commenced to wash.

“I had hardly dared tae hope when ye were so sick before our wedding. I prayed it was merely the sickness of childbearing that caused ye tae hate yer food.”

Hannah laughed. “Merely the sickness of childbearing. Ye wait, Arya MacThomas, when it’s yer turn ye’ll nae use the word merely.”

Arya took her in her arms. “I’m so happy fer ye. When dae ye think the wean will make his entrance intae the world?”

“I’ve consulted with Sister Margaret and Peg the midwife, and they’re both of the view that it will be around four months from now.”

“Oh. So soon. I shall have tae spin some wool and start knitting a wee blanket fer the wean. He’ll be here fer the winter so he’ll be in need of something warm and cozy.”

“And I’ve already started knitting, Arya, and so has dear Maggie. The wee soul will never feel the cold blast of winter.”

***

When at last Arya and Gillebride were cuddled together in bed, warm and snug under their fur coverlet, she turned to him, smoothing the long dark hair behind his ears, resting her head on his chest, reveling in the feel of his strong arm around her and the steady beat of his heart against her ear.

“So, Hannah and Taveon are expecting a bairn around November,” she whispered, running a finger across the thicket of black hairs on his chest.

He toyed with her long tresses, winding a curl around his finger.

“Is a bairn something ye wish fer lass? I’ve never spoken of it. After the loss of me wee Claray I’d never dared hope that one day I could be blessed with another bairn.”

“Oh, Gilly,” she said, smiling, “I wish nothing more now that we are wed, than tae fill our new castle with the laughter of children. I want tae see them climb on yer lap and laugh at the stories ye’ll have tae tell them.”

He lay still a moment and she fancied he was thinking about the picture she painted.

Then he seized her and pulled her to sit atop him, so that her legs were straddling his giant frame.

She bent and took his lips in hers and they kissed. It started long and dreame, but as their tongues found each other and his hands came up to fondle her breasts, their passion grew and the kiss grew heated, deeper, until they could no longer contain the wild desire that was overtaking them.

Gilly moaned as she stroked the hard length of him.

“I wish that part of ye tae be inside me, MacThomas.”

“Aye, lass, I’ll dae as ye demand,” he said, raising her with his two hands at her waist and lowering her, so that her slick, sensitive folds opened over him. He slid his hard member inside her slowly, inch by inch, taking his time and making her moan. Until impatient she cried out and lowered herself, taking him to the hilt.

“Let’s see if we can start making a bairn right here and now,” he managed before he was lost and quite beyond speech.

“Gilly, aye,” she said, moaning as he thrust harder. “I dae adore ye so, love of me life.”

The End.

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Four months later

“Damn it!” Kai yelled as Cory and his horse slipped just a little past him on the road, winning the brief race they’d just decided to engage in, after a quick patrol around the forests.

Cory laughed, his eyes bright, and his face happy. He’d just become a father, and he and Helen, unable to contain their joy had come to stay at McLaren Castle for a time.

“Ye let me win, right?” Cory asked, patting his chest as he breathed hard.

“I would love tae say that was true,” Kai replied, “but I’m afraid nae. Bloody Hell, I have nae raced anyone in a long time. It feels good, even though I lost.” He grinned at his happy friend, and they slowed to a trot.

“So, it seems that there are nay traces of Clan MacFarlane fer now.”

“Nay, but I will nae hold me breath. There is somethin’ strange about that. Just like Cecily had a dark feelin’ that somethin’ was nae yet finished, so dae I. They wouldnae have attacked fer nae reason. There must be some reason. And I’ve sent messages but heard nae reply. I daenae want tae send men without meself, and I daenae want tae leave the castle. Nae so early on, with Cecily with me.”

“Aye, I understand ye completely, lad. And so ye should stay with yer woman.” The castle loomed in the distance, and Kai realized that he was even happier now, eight months after meeting Cecily.

Each passing day was better with her next to him, and he and his brothers were repairing the darkness that had been sewn into them. It was no longer a castle of grief but of laughter and happiness and hope.

“We are brothers now, in a way, ye ken.” Cory grinned, “marryin’ sisters as we did.”

“So we are. I like that. And does Helen share Cecily’s temper?” Kai whistled low. “I have never seen the like, especially now that she feels comfortable and strong. The woman is fire in the body of an angel.”

Cory laughed loudly, and he nodded. “Aye, I couldnae have said it better meself. Helen is just the same, and at the same time, she kens how tae hoodwink me. Sometimes, I find meself in the middle of an agreement, and I daenae bloody ken how I got there.”

Grinning, Kai agreed. Cecily had come into her own in their time together. She was now shrinking violet or wilting lily as William used to call her. She was powerful, independent, fierce, and unafraid to speak her mind. She was everything she thought she never could have been: the perfect Highland lady to a Highland laird.

They left their horses at the stables and walked up to the castle. “I can tell ye that Helen will thank ye for forcin’ me tae ride with ye. Now that the bairn is here, I can hardly stay away from them, worryin’ about everythin’ and makin’ sure that all is well. She’s had tae ask me tae leave a number of times when I get too protective.”

“Aye, but that is the way of it, I’m sure,” Kai said, patting his hand on Cory’s shoulder.

He could see the warmth of fatherly love in his friend’s eyes, and he wondered if he and Cecily would ever have the experience. There had been more lovemaking in the whole of his life in the past seven months, but no bairn yet, at least not to his knowledge. He did like their time alone together, however, for there would be plenty of time for bairns.

In the hall, they found the women, and the young Hamish in Helen’s arms. Cory hurried up to his wife and son, kissing each of them, while Cecily came to hug Kai.

“Anything?” she asked, and he knew what she meant.

“Nay. But we will keep the patrols. They may be waitin’ fer us tae get tired of daein’ it or perhaps feelin’ secure. Then they may attack again.”

She frowned. “Could it be possible that William had paid them to attack?”

“Could an earl have that much money at his disposal tae attack a clan just tae get at ye?”

She shook her head. “He may, but I doubt he would have used it for that, you are right.” She took his hand and led him to sit with the others. “I just hope that we can figure out what they wanted or want now.”

She leaned against him as they watched Cory take the babe in arms, and Helen sighed. “You are so kind to let us stay with you again. I know it feels as though we were just here.”

“Please! You are welcome at any time, and I hope you will come whenever you like!”

“Well, the same goes to the both of you,” Helen said, gazing at her son and husband together with a bright look in her eye. “Not that a castle with a squawking babe is something people want to come and visit.”

Cory chuckled, and Kai smiled. “Of course, we will.”

However, they all knew that they couldn’t leave until the matter was resolved with Clan MacFarlane. It was enough to drive any man mad, and Kai was glad that Cecily was not yet with child, for he wanted nothing to get in the way of their happiness or her safety. And even though months had passed, the both of them still feared this uncertain joy they were finding together. As if it might pop like a bubble at any time.

Sensing his thoughts, he felt Cecily squeeze and then kiss his hand, and he turned his mind to happier things.
“So, should I tell ye that Kai lost tae me race today?” Cory said, and the women gasped.

“It can’t be true!” Cecily laughed, and Kai rolled his eyes. “I thought he was the better horseman.”

“It seems fatherhood has given me extra strength.” Cory waggled his brows and leaned over to kiss Helen.

“Just ye wait, lad. I will wallop ye again soon.”

“Perhaps when ye have become a father, when yer strength doubles.” Cory winked, and Kai smiled at Cecily.

“Perhaps then.”

***

Cecily had not spent too much time thinking about children with Kai. She was happy enough with her new life, filled with joy and peace and love. She had found a partner she adored with all her heart, and who loved her back, and her home was a beautiful one. She was safe from her wicked relative, and her sister lived in the same country. This was everything she could have wished for. But seeing the love that Cory and Helen shared, even stronger after the birth of their son, Cecily wondered if she might like that as well.

In all fairness, she was a bit surprised that she had not fallen with child yet. For she and Kai had been making love more than she thought a married couple ever would. Eventually they bid goodnight to Helen and Cory, and she took Kai’s hand as he led her to the new chamber they now shared together. It was now upstairs, far away from the study, for Kai said he did not wish to make his life about the clan but rather about her first. It had made her feel special and loved, but she did wonder, did he wish for more? Was he now desperate for that heir that the clan had been so concerned about?

As soon as they entered the chamber, Kai pulled her close and kissed her. “Ye were thoughtful at dinner, lass.”
“I suppose I was.” She smiled up at her bear-like husband, her arms looped about his neck.

“I ken that look,” he said with a wicked tilt of his lips, and his hands reached around her to push her closer before they spread down to her buttocks and squeezed.

She let out a little gasp, breathless every time when Kai touched her, and he chuckled.

“So simple, lass, tae melt ye like butter in me arms.”

She blushed brightly. “Well then I will try my best not to react so strongly,” she said, pulling out of his arms, but he held her elbows.

“Dinnae dare, love.” He pulled her close, as she furrowed her brow at him with indignance, and he kissed her.

Yet again, his kiss had power, and she was sinking into him once more, loving the feel of his fingers as he splayed them over her back, her buttocks, her breasts.

“Me angel,” he said, kissing down her neck as he pushed her towards the bed. “I think ye the best of women.”

Cecily smiled as he nipped and licked her and then he spun her around to help her out of her gown. It seconds, it seemed, she was naked and gasping, as Kai kissed down her leg, spreading her wide for his enjoyment. His thumb brushed against her center before his mouth took its place. He licked and suckled, watching her every movement. She could not look away either, loving him and that very moment, craving him and his touch. It did not take her long to come, her pleasure peaking in his mouth.

Breathless, she watched with a flutter in her belly as her husband rose over her, his gaze both hungry and affection. “The most beautiful thing in the world is when ye come, lass. I can never get enough of it.”

She let out a shaky smile, and then she pulled him close for a kiss, wanting to feel him all over her skin, longing to remember and to savor the beautiful life they had together. Their kiss was both tender and heated, and his large hand spread her thighs as he settled between them. Lifting her thighs up and around his waist, Kai groaned as he inserted his shaft into her, thrusting until he was fully in.

“I love ye, Cecily. Even more than the first time I realized.”

She nodded, looking at where their bodies were joined, and pleasure swam through her, making her dizzy. “Yes,” she let out on a sigh as the rhythm became faster.

He lifted her even higher, and she whispered his name as he slid even deeper, stroking inside her again and again, making her muscles weak.

He then leaned over her, his face against hers, whispering things in Gaelic as his pace quickened. Her fingers pressed and scratched along his back, and then she broke apart again, his name on her lips.

He groaned and shook, after a few more thrusts, and then he lay atop her for a few moments while she clung to him.

Their skin was slick with sweat, and she kissed his neck, letting out a whisper, “I love you too.”

When he pulled off her, he took her waist and drew her close. “I have been wantin’ tae ask ye somethin’, lass,” he said in a soft voice.

“Oh?” The flutter of nerves returned. “What is it?”

“I ken we have nay discussed it much or rushed it, and we have certainly been makin’ an effort tae dae so, but I wanted tae ask ye. We can see the happiness Helen and Cory have with their new son. Would ye like tae have one someday?”

Cecily turned in his arms, surprise rushing through her, as if he had read her thoughts earlier. “You are right that I have seen their happiness. And I know that the council is worried about you having an heir.”

He held up a hand. “Dinnae worry about that,” he said with a furrowed brow. “I only wanted tae ask what ye wanted.”

His fingertips stroked her cheek, and in that moment, Cecily felt more loved than she ever had been. “Yes, I would like one or more, if it works out that way. But I thank you, Kai, for not rushing me. I am so used to worrying about being a disappointment that I cannot simply relax and enjoy life.”

He kissed her palm that she’d reached up to touch his cheek with. “Never. Ye must enjoy what we have while we have it. And the heir is only something that will come if it happens. I want ye, me greatest love, tae be happy first. And of course, I will happily thrust meself intae the task of helpin’ tae make one.”

He moved a little against her, and she giggled, feeling him already hardening again. “It seems you are ready already.”

“For ye, me angel, always.”

The End.

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Macdonell Castle
December 1304

Hannah Macdonell loved the snow. It was like a magical transformation that changed familiar places into something altogether different. Lacy icicles stretched from the castle ramparts lending it an air of mystery, a place that fairy-folk might inhabit instead of the mere mortals who went about their daily business there.

Today there was an air of excitement abroad at Castle Macdonell. Only days ago, Hannah’s brothers Blaine and Errol had returned from the Isle of Mull with their wives, Ivy and Edina and Ivy and Blaine’s twin girls, Mirin and Alba. This time, they were accompanied by Edina’s sisters Skye and Margaret.

The castle was bustling, filled with the joy of the season, as preparations were in hand for holiday feasting.

Hannah and the others had been out collecting holly and ivy to decorate the great hall and create ribboned wreaths to hang on the castle doors. She entered the solar where the lasses had gathered and were busy with their nimble fingers creating the decorations. She looked around at the smiling faces with a joyful heart.

At times she’d been lonely in the castle, especially when the men were absent – sometimes for days – visiting outlying villages, patrolling the Macdonell lands, ever-watchful in case Sir William de Coughran should attack the castle again.

But today, all was peaceful. There was a definite thrill of anticipation in the air. Not only was Christmas Day fast approaching, but this was the day when Taveon and Payton’s sister Arya would be returning from The Priory, where she’d been languishing for several months, safe with the good sisters. Now, finally, as there’d been not a peep out of Sir William de Coughran and no sightings of his men anywhere on or near Macdonell land, Payton, as the Laird of the Macdonells had decreed it safe enough for Arya to return home.

Her bright presence had been sorely missed and Hannah was eagerly awaiting her return. Although regular messages had been conveyed to the convent, there was so much to tell her. After all, Arya had been whisked away to safety the very morning following Hannah’s capture and abduction to Lochnell Castle. There were so many adventures to recount, not the least of which was the story of Hannah and Taveon’s wedding.

Hannah had embroidered two cushions for Arya’s chamber. While there were no longer any colourful hangings in the room, she’d found an elderly workman from the village who had plastered the walls and painted them with Arya’s beloved roses, along with bouquets of other flowers. Now Arya’s bedchamber glowed with color and beauty.

As the morning wore on, the excitement grew. They had stopped work and were partaking of a soda of rosewater and honey and some almond marzipan cakes, when the twins came running in. “She’s comin’,” they chorused in unison.

Hannah flung aside the arrangement she’d been working on and put down her cup of rosewater. Straightening her skirts and tucking her hair under her lace cap she raced out of the solar, heading pell-mell for the keep.

The others followed more decorously.

Hannah dashed outside, arriving at the keep only seconds behind Taveon and Payton. She fidgeted from foot to foot, waiting while the gatemen drew up the unwieldy iron gate. The cart was slowly approaching when an impatient Arya leaped down and raced toward her brothers and Hannah, her arms open wide.

They all met in a tangle of hugs, tears and kisses.

Arya was introduced to the newcomers and it was clear from the smiles all round that not only Ivy and Edina, but Blaine and Errol, had taken to her at once.

Arya was glowing, seeming so much more grown up than when Hannah saw her last.

“Ye look beautiful,” Hannah exclaimed, holding her newest sister-in-law at arm’s length. She was clad in a navy-blue cloak trimmed with white fur and, with her mane of red curls tumbling down her back, she looked exactly like a true princess.

She hugged Hannah tight. “Oh, Hannah I cannae wait tae hear all yer stories. It was a terrible morning when I left, knowing that ye’d been abducted by that monstrous man.”

“And if nae for yer brothers’ courage, I might still be his captive,” Hannah responded, her mind darting back to the awful blackness and the sudden terror when she realised she was once again in Sir William de Coughran’s clutches.

Arya’s blue eyes misted with tears. “It almost broke me heart tae miss yer wedding tae Taveon.”

Hannah hugged her again. “But ye were with us in all your glorious roses. Me dress was rose-pink in yer honor and the roses were everywhere.”

They entered the castle arm-in-arm, leaving the servants under Maggie’s instructions to bring in the luggage.

The remainder of the day passed in a happy blur of catching up. Hannah recounting the details of her kidnap and the journey under threat to Lochnell Castle.

“Were ye very afraid, Hannah?” Arya asked.

“Aye. But mayhap I was more angry than afraid,” Hannah responded, “yet when I spoke with Fyfe de Coughran and he reassured me that he would nae make me his wife, I believed there was hope.”

Arya’s eyes widened. “And then my brothers came tae yer rescue?”

“And me brothers as well,” Hannah added, laughing, “with our most loyal friend Gillebride. Once I saw them, I knew that, somehow, they would take me tae safety.”

Arya sighed. “I have nae exciting stories. My life with the sisters was tranquil and contemplative. I did a little embroidery, but I confess my fingers are nae deft like yers. I spent most of me time in the garden.” She looked up, her blue eyes sparkling. “I learned so much about herbs and healing that it’s certain ye’ll come tae think me a witch. It’s nae only roses, but I wish tae grow my own herbs here at the castle. I’ll spend much time learning all I can from Sister Margaret in the infirmary.”

“Come now,” Hannah said, tucking her arm into Arya’s. “I wish ye tae see yer bedchamber and tell me if ye like it.”

***

Christmas day was a day of thankfulness and feasting and the days that followed were pleasant, family times, that had been all too rare over the past years of war.

Hannah was thankful for having her family together for the very first time. Since Arya’s arrival two days ago, along with her sisters and the children, they’d fallen into a pleasant routine. After breaking fast, they spent the morning in the solar, chatting, gossiping, embroidering and mending. After lunch they would all venture out into the snow. They’d made snowmen, tobogganed down the slopes beside the castle walls and waged snowball wars.

Occasionally Taveon and the other men joined in, always the targets of a flurry of snowballs.

Five days after Christmas, Hannah was re-entering the keep after their afternoon outing when Taveon caught up with her, warming her cheeks with his kisses.

He took her hand as they walked inside. “Payton has asked that as soon as ye’ve shaken the snow out of yer hair and taken off yer boots and cloaks we all meet in the solar.”

She raised a questioning eyebrow.

“There is news. A messenger came this morning from King Robert.”

“Does that mean…?”

“Hush, love, Payton will tell us all. Make haste tae the solar.”

Hannah collected the others and, once they’d changed out of boots and cloaks into slippers and shawls, they all assembled in the solar, waiting for Payton.

Would this be the news they’d so long awaited? A message from King Robert, accepting their petition to join his side in the war against the English king?

When Payton walked in, grinning from ear to ear, it was clear that whatever his news, it met with his approval.

“I ken ye’re all anxious tae hear what I have tae say. As ye ken, the chiefs of Clan Macdonell are in agreement with my proposal that we swear allegiance to our rightful King, Robert the Bruce. We sent him a petition several months ago and have been waiting for his response.”

“What this will mean tae Clan Macdonell is that we will be allied with the other Highland clans who are fighting with the Bruce. Following the wedding of mmey brother, Taveon, we are already allied with Clan MacKinnon, and an allegiance tae King Robert will provide us with his patronage and protection. Our strength will increase and we’ll nae longer fear the likes of traitors such as Sir William de Coughran.”

A cheer went up and cups of mead were passed around.

Hannah turned to Taveon. “Are ye now tae journey tae kneel afore the King?”

“Aye, lass, we will journey tae Glasgow in the new year when the snow has melted. There we’ll meet with the King and his lords.”

Her face fell at the thought of being alone again, without her beloved by her side.

“Dinnae fash,” he said “Ye’ll be with us, along with all yer sisters and the weans.”

“Oh!” she gasped. Then she leaned into him with a big smile, her heart beating fast. “And, at last, I’ll be married tae a man who has knelt in allegiance tae the true king!”

The End.

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One month later

Four entire weeks had passed without Alba realizing it. Everything went by so fast, the preparations for the wedding taking up all her time, much to Magnus’ chagrin. But Alba had to make sure that everything would be perfect. Everyone would be there, after all; the Murray Clan, the Menzies Clan, and all their combined allies. She couldn’t possibly allow anything to go wrong on the day of her own wedding.

Thankfully, everything went smoothly throughout the ceremony, and before Alba knew it, she and Magnus were married. She had once thought that it would feel very different after exchanging vows, but with Magnus, it was still the same. It was easy to be around him like they were always meant to be together.

Now the two of them sat at their table, and Magnus’ gaze kept drifting to her, full of want and heat. Earlier that day, right before they got married, he told her he loved the baby blue dress she had chosen for the occasion and couldn’t wait to rip it off her later that night.

And then Alba had forbidden him from touching it. The dress was too beautiful for Magnus to destroy it in his haste. She feared his wandering hands would destroy the delicate lace that lined the sleeves and the hem.

She only hoped Magnus would listen, unlikely as that was.

The feast she and Evelyn had prepared was already in full swing. The clansmen and women were eating, drinking, and dancing to the music, the great hall filled with their laughter and conversation. Alba couldn’t help but smile the entire time, her happiness bursting out of her and seeping into the room.

For the first time in her life, she could say that she was truly happy. She wasn’t thinking about anything else. She wished her mother could have been a part of this day too, but she no longer felt the intense sorrow she used to when she thought about her, and she felt excitement for her new life. It was what she had always wanted, to remember her mother fondly without having to remember the awful event that took her life.

When she felt a hand on her shoulder, she looked up to see Tate there, who looked just as cheerful and youthful as he always did. Alba was certain that plenty of ladies would try to capture his attention that night, popular as he was with women, but Tate seemed oblivious to it all.

“Congratulations, Alba,” he said but then frowned a little. “Well, I dinnae ken if that’s the right thing tae say, considerin’ ye married my brother.”

Alba laughed as Magnus slapped Tate’s shoulder. A part of her feared they would start roughhousing, but thankfully, they both behaved.

“What’s wrong with marryin’ me?” Magnus asked. “Am I that bad?”

“Ach, stop it,” Tate said. He pulled Magnus into a tight hug, one that he reciprocated immediately. “Always complainin’ about somethin’.”

As Tate hugged Magnus, Alba couldn’t help but notice that he had a birthmark on his hand that she had never spotted before. It was rather faint, a splotch of darker skin over his hand that was easy to miss.

Ever since Lana had told her about the man who had helped her, Alba had gotten into the habit of looking at men’s hands. She wondered if fate would have it that the man was none other than Tate, although it seemed unlikely. She didn’t know what the birthmark Lana was looking for was like, and she doubted it would be something as easy to miss as this.

Still, once she returned from her trip to the town, where she had gone with the Clan’s healer to help deliver a baby, Alba would introduce her to Tate and to let her know that she should look at his hands. If they hadn’t met already, that is.

“It really is a wonder ye two ended up married,” Tate said, resting his weight on Magnus’ chair as he leaned against it. “I never thought I’d see the day ye’d speak tae each other without shoutin’, let alone the day ye’d be a married couple.”

“We had tae hate each other first so our love could be even stronger,” Magnus said, reaching over to take Alba’s hand and press a soft kiss on her knuckles. “I think it was fate.”

“I used tae tell ye that she’s a good lass, remember?” Tate asked. “And ye kept sayin’ nay, nay, she’s a beast.”

“A beast?” Alba asked, gaping at Magnus as she snatched her hand back from him. “Magnus! Ye called me a beast?”

“Well, ye were a wee beast,” Magnus teased. “Ye were always so cold, and ye certainly thought ye were better than me.”

“Ye were actin’ so lecherously!” Alba said. She supposed Magnus still did, but only with her now, and she couldn’t deny that she enjoyed it. “What was I supposed tae dae? Ye even tried tae kiss me!”

At that, Tate and Magnus exchanged a knowing glance, one that filled Alba with suspicion. She narrowed her eyes at them and tapped her fingers on the table impatiently, unsure whether or not she wanted to hear the truth.

“What is it?” she asked. “Why are ye lookin’ at each other like that?”

“Dae ye wish tae tell her?” Magnus asked Tate.

“Nay,” Tate said. “She’s yer wife.”

With a sigh, Magnus turned to look at Alba and once again took her hand. For the moment, Alba let him hold it.

“Mo ghràidh…”

“Dinnae try tae placate me,” Alba said.

“Well, ye see, when I tried tae kiss ye, it was because Tate and I had a bet,” he said.

“A bet,” Alba said, her tone flat and unimpressed. “A bet.”

“Aye,” Magnus said, flashing her his charming smile. It didn’t work, not one bit. “I said that if I could prove that ye were a tiny beast, then Tate would stay longer. And, well, ye slapped me. Very hard.”

For a few moments, Alba stared at the two brothers in silence. Then she rolled her eyes at them and flicked Magnus on the forehead as a punishment.

“Neither o’ ye has a single proper thought in yer mind,” she said. To think that Magnus would have tried to kiss her for a mere bet. And not just that, but that it was a bet to prove she was a beast! Alba could hardly believe it. But as always, she loved him too much to stay annoyed with him for long. In the end, everything had worked out, after all.

“Forgive me, mo ghràidh,” Magnus said. “I adore ye. Yer the love o’ my life. My bonnie wife. The light o’ me eyes.”

“All right,” Alba said with a fond yet exasperated smile as she waved a dismissive hand at Magnus. “Ye can stop now. I forgive ye.”

“Dae ye forgive me, too?” Tate asked.

“Och, I’m sure ye didnae dae anythin’,” Alba said, reaching up to pat Tate’s cheek gently like a mother would comfort a little child. “This barbarian makes ye dae all these things, does he nae?”

“Alba!” Magnus explained in mock offense, clutching his chest. “I would never dae that! How can ye put all the blame on me?”

“Tate is young. He doesnae ken any better,” Alba laughed. “But ye dae.”

“I’ll spend the rest o’ me days makin’ it up tae ye, will I nae?” Magnus asked with a miserable sigh, letting his head fall against the table. It made such a loud noise and rattled so many of the plates and the cups that half the room turned to look at him.

“Och aye,” Alba said. But Magnus didn’t have to worry. She already knew a few ways in which he could make it up to her, and she was certain he would enjoy it, too.

Eventually, Alba allowed him to take her to the dance floor. The two of them glided around the room, and this time, now that all her injuries had healed, it was much easier for Alba to follow his lead.

Even though it had only been a little over a month since they had left Steward Castle, the events of those days seemed distant to Alba, as if they had happened to a different person in another lifetime. Ever since they had returned, she was surrounded by so much love and joy that she had almost forgotten about it.

The only thing that lingered were the nightmares, which Alba still had every now and then. While she still saw her mother and the fire in some of them, other times, she relived her kidnapping, while others yet, she saw Magnus being set on fire by Fletcher and Laird MacNab. Each time, she woke up screaming and covered in sweat, but Magnus was always there to calm her, whispering sweet, soothing words into her ear and holding her until she fell back asleep.

He never seemed to tire, no matter how many times it happened or how long it took for her to calm down. Magnus was always there for as long as it took, and each time, he promised her that he would always be there.

The rest of the feast went by in a blur as the maids kept refilling Alba’s cup. By the end of the night, when most of the clansmen and women had already gone to bed, she was giddy with love and alcohol, and she had to lean against Magnus for support when they made their way up to the chambers that they now shared.

Once they were behind their closed door, Magnus helped her out of her dress with such gentle movements that her breath caught her throat. His fingers seemed to touch every inch of her, brushing over her neck, her shoulders, and her arms, following the curves of her breasts and her hips. Then, once he had thrown his own clothes into a pile by the vanity, he took Alba to bed and helped her settle under the covers and into his arms.

Alba loved being in his warm embrace. Magnus was comfortable, safe, so incredibly loving, and familiar. It didn’t take Alba long to drift into a slumber. But then Magnus’ hushed voice pulled her out of it, and so did the hand that crept lower and lower until, much to her disappointment, stopped at her belly and refused to move, no matter how much she squirmed and tried to tilt her hips.

“Alba…” Magnus said, his fingers splaying open over her skin. “What dae ye think about havin’ a bairn?”

Babies were something Alba had never thought about, just like marriage. But the thought was appealing to her. She loved children and would love to have some of her own. Besides, she thought it would be a matter of time before she was pregnant, especially since she and Magnus couldn’t keep their hands off each other.

“Ye want tae have a bairn?” Alba asked with a small smile, her own hand coming to rest over Magnus’. “Ye never ken… we may already have one.”

“Are ye tryin’ tae tell me somethin’?” Magnus asked, suddenly sounding completely alert. Alba laughed and shook her head, reaching behind her to push him back down onto the bed when she felt him move.

“Nay,” she said. “I’m only sayin’ that there’s a possibility since we… are together so often. But I dinnae think so. Not yet.”

For a few moments, Magnus stayed silent, considering Alba’s words. “I’d like tae have many bairns,” he said once he finally spoke again. “Many wee ones, lookin’ like ye and me, runnin’ around the castle.”

It was a nice thought, and Alba let herself imagine it. She thought fatherhood would suit Magnus. For all he tried to stay away from people, to keep his distance from them, he was a very caring man with so much love to give. Alba couldn’t imagine a better father for her children.

“Robert will have someone tae play with, too,” she said. “Though I’m sure my sister will have plenty more bairns. We’re nae the only ones who cannae stay away from each other.”

It was the only reason Alba didn’t feel too guilty for spending so much time with Magnus. When Evelyn and Scott first married, they did the same thing. Alba could only hope that soon enough, her and Magnus’ desire for each other would settle into something calmer, less urgent.

They could hardly spend their whole lives in bed, after all.

Magnus laughed softly at that, and Alba felt him nod against her shoulder. “Aye, that’s true,” he said. “I cannae wait fer it. I never thought I’d want tae marry a lass, let alone have any bairns, but I cannae stop thinkin’ about it now. I want us tae have a family o’ our own.”

With a smile, Alba turned around in Magnus’ arms. She pressed a gentle hand over his cheek as she threw a leg over his hip, settling against him. “Yer so sweet sometimes, Magnus,” she said. Alba would have never thought this Magnus was the same person as the one she had met all that time ago, when their paths first crossed. Then again, the Magnus she knew back then was nothing more than a mask. Alba knew that now. It was how Magnus used to protect himself.

Alba kissed him slowly and tenderly, pouring all her love for him into the kiss. Magnus spoke her name reverently, like it was a prayer, his hands holding her like she was the most precious thing in the world.

Alba had never considered herself particularly lucky. If anything, only a few months ago, she would have called herself unlucky after the loss she had experienced and the grief that followed it. But now she felt as though fate was trying to make up for all that sorrow through Magnus. She finally had everything she wanted. She was finally loved, cared for, and safe.

She knew that hard times were still to come. Every life has its ups and downs, good moments and bad ones. But as long as she had Magnus and her family on her side, there was nothing that could hurt Alba anymore.

With a sigh, Alba closed her eyes once more, and this time, she let sleep wash over her. The smile on her face never faded, and she couldn’t wait to greet her first morning as a married woman.

The End.

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Four months later

From a blanket in the grass, Helen watched as Ella chased her twins alongside the flower meadow. Cam was watching from his hiding place, and Kai was with him behind a tree, ready to jump out at any moment. The twins squealed when the men scared them, and Helen laughed, looking over to see Cory watching her with amusement.

It was a perfect summer day, and they had just finished eating on the bright green grass outside his castle. Cory still couldn’t believe that this was his life. He had dear friends who had just come to visit, and his wife was so perfect, it hurt. Perfect for him. The past four months had been utterly blissful.

“What are ye thinkin’ about, lass?” he asked as he picked up her hand and kissed it.

She let out her breath and grinned at him. Her green eyes were like two bright emeralds in the sunshine, and her freckles were even more highlighted in the bright, cloudless day.

“I was just thinking about how wonderful it is here with you. I only wish Cecily could be here. She says there is still so much to do in England, and my father’s cousin is worried about her traveling on her own to Scotland.”

“Perhaps we should send someone tae fetch her?” Cory suggested. “I want tae meet her.”

“I will suggest it to her. Thank you.” She smiled at the merry scene as the adults played with the children.

He looked at her profile as she continued to watch them.

“Would ye like tae have a child, Helen? I ken we have discussed it from time tae time, but I never wanted ye tae feel as though ye had tae be a broodmare for a laird. It wasnae why I married ye.”

She chuckled, but didn’t turn to look at him. “I know. You are so kind, for you know just how much I value my independence and my freedom. I love you for that. But I think I would like to have a child one day. For us to have a child.” She turned to look at him with such love in her eyes. “But we do not need to rush. It will happen when it happens.”

“Aye.” He leaned down to kiss her. “I would be happy tae increase our frequency in makin’ one if that would make ye happy.”

She threw her head back and laughed, and Cory didn’t think he’d ever seen a more beautiful sight. “Oh, would you? That is so good to know, my love.” Her hand reached up to stroke his shoulder, and he could feel his desire rising.

It seemed there was no end to his desire for this woman, and she responded with such fervor and passion that he felt so grateful his wife wanted him as well.

“Shall we go for a ride, then?” she asked innocently, and Cory grinned.

He got to his feet and lifted her up as well. Pulling her close, he pressed a kiss on her lips.

“So, shall we go to the stables? I am sure Seamus will be happy to saddle us two horses.”

“The stables?” Cory looked at her with a puzzled expression, and then he shook his head, laughing.

“Oh, you thought I meant…” Helen grinned, grasped his hand. And together, they walked to the stables, leaving their friends as they laughed and played with the little ones.

“Ye will kill me, lass.”

“That would not be very good, since I intend to live out my days with you, husband.”

Seamus was glad to see them at the stables, and he had the young stableboy saddle two horses for the pair of them. Cory had gotten a new horse for Helen soon after they were married, and she went to coo and fuss over it while he and Seamus spoke.

“What a fine day, my Laird,” Seamus said, squinting up into the sunlight.

“Aye, very fine. It is rare that tae have such a fine day in the Highlands, but here we are.”

“Laird Chattan, Cory, I wanted tae say somethin’ tae ye.” The old man turned back, and Cory followed his gaze, watching Helen speak kindly to the young stableboy who was saddling her horse.

“What is it?” he asked, captivated by the sight of his wife.

“Ye have done a good thing here. Even in just a few months ye have made things so much better for everyone. The villages are thrivin’, and there will be a good harvest this autumn. Families willnae starve, and they have money tae rebuild their homes, and tae take care of their families. Me own daughter and her husband are daein’ so much better now, thanks tae ye.”

Cory looked back at the man, who was smiling at him, heavy lines crinkling at the corners of his eyes. “Ye are most welcome, Seamus.” He shook his hand. “I only wanted tae dae what me father would dae, and so I am so glad tae hear ye say that things are goin’ well. Now, all we need tae dae is keep ourselves safe, and then everythin’ will be good.”

“Aye.” Seamus nodded towards Helen who was now walking out of the stables and into the sunshine alongside her horse. “Ye have done well findin’ yer wife, too. I ken that many were skeptical because she is a Sassenach, but I have never met such a kind-hearted lass. And so full of fire at the same time.”

Cory laughed. “Aye, ye have described her perfectly. Now, Seamus, I plan tae take me wife on a ride.”

He walked to Helen’s horse and lifted her up into her saddle. “Are ye ready, love?” he asked, and she nodded.

“Yes, but you had better hurry, or I will beat you to our destination.”

“Where are we goin?” he asked, running to his horse.

With a big smile, Cory chased after her before she said a word. He would chase her wherever.

***

When they arrived at the shores of a dark blue loch, Helen slowed, and she turned to look at Cory, who was only a few steps behind her.

“We havenae raced for that long since that time we escaped the castle.” He jumped down from his horse and helped her down.

She could do it herself, but she always loved the strong feel of his hands around her waist, and she placed her hands over his.

“Why did ye want tae come here?” he asked softly.

“Because.” She pulled away from him and began to remove her clothing. “I wanted tae remember the past for a few minutes.”

She warmed under his heated look, and within seconds, they were undressed, clutching to one another in the dark waters of the loch. Her hands traced the pendant around his neck. Now the hidden room was empty. There was no need for any secrets or hidden things anymore. And yet Cory kept the pendant as the last token of his father.

He watched her as she toyed with it. “Ye are brilliant, ye ken. For figurin’ it out that it was a key. I wore it most of me life, and I never kenned.”

She lifted a brow. “Well, I thought we already established that, but I thank you for the compliment, Cory. I do like to be thought brilliant.” She kissed him. “And it had been just a thought. I was surprised it actually worked.”

He shifted underneath her, and she could feel his hardness. It never ceased to excite her.

“So, why the loch, lass?”

“I wanted to be far enough away from everyone when we did this.” She slid down over him, and with her legs wrapped around him.

Cory thrust into her, and all talking ceased for a time as they made love in the water. It was never cold when his arms were around her. She became breathless, kissing him sloppily before he came as well, his hands tight on her back.

“Ye are full of surprises,” he said once they were laying together out on the shore of the loch.

“Always. As are you.”

She was on her side, her elbow on the ground, staring up at him. “You know, I think Cecily should come as soon as possible.” Her fingers trailed up to his arm. “What do you think if we asked Kai to stay longer, so he can be here when Cecily is here?”

“I had nae idea that me wife was a matchmaker,” he replied. “But I suppose ye are just so happy that ye wish for everyone tae be so.”

“Well, aren’t you smug?” She leaned forward to kiss him, and then she stood up. “So, I think we return and ensure that Kai will stay with us longer.”

She stalked over to her clothes and began putting them on, chuckling at her husband’s look of shock. “Very well.” He hurried to dress. And then they were on the road again, returning to the castle over the green hills and along the river.

When they got close, they slowed, and Cory reached out a hand. She took it, and he squeezed it.

“Ye ken that every time I look upon this castle whenever I am returnin’ home, I thank God that ye stayed with me. That ye didnae go back home.” He stopped, and she pulled on the reins to stop her horse so that she could look him fully in the face.

To her surprise, he looked pained. “I ken it was a lot tae ask of ye, especially since ye lost yer brother, and then ye had a sister ye wanted tae see as well. I am so sorry for that. I should have taken tae yer home as soon as we’d gotten married so that ye could help yer sister, and she could return with us.”

“No, Cory, please. Don’t say such things. I wanted to stay right here with you. My time in England is over, and if you had come with me to help my sister, I know there is much you would be missing as Laird. You have much to do, and I confess I would not have wanted to be away from you for so many months just after our wedding if you had to return home. We did the right thing.” She smiled at him. “I promise you. I love you dearly, husband, and I do not regret a single moment. I just am surprised that it is taking so long for Cecily to return. She states the cousin is a good man, but I worry he is becoming too similar to Anthony or will wish to marry her himself.”

Cory jumped down from his horse and then helped Helen down. Together, they walked the horses to Seamus and returned to the castle.

“Well, I could send me men for her, and then neither of us would have tae leave or be apart from one another.”

“I will think about it.” They entered the main hall, hand in hand, to see Ella, Cameron, and Kai sitting in front of the hearth, drinks in hand.

“Ye’ve returned!” Ella called with a smile. “We thought perhaps we had lost ye for the rest of the day.”

“I’m sorry.” Helen blushed as the approached them, and Cory wrapped his arms around her from behind. “But we wanted to ride, and I did not wish to disturb your play.”

Helen could see the joking eyes Cam and Kai made at Cory.

“Ye have every right tae that, me dear,” Ella said, pouring them each some wine before passing them their glasses. “I ken that after Cam and I were wed, it became very difficult nae tae snatch time when we could.”

“Aye, she speaks the truth.” Cam wrapped his arm around Ella’s waist, and Helen leaned back against Cory.

“Tae ye both.” Cam lifted his glass in the air, and the others did the same. “Ye have done well, and we have kept the English from these parts as best we could. And Helen, ye have made me friend happier than I have ever seen him. Tae ye both and yer happiness.”

“Hear, hear,” Cory said from behind her, and they all drank.

Helen was touched. But her mind was on other matters. She turned to Kai, who was no longer facing them but looking into the hearth. Even after the time she’d known him, Kai was still a little of a mystery to her. He was kind and generally cheerful, but there seemed something dark about him on the inside, as if he was often troubled. But he never spoke of it, and Cory did not tell her either. As she looked at him, she thought of dear, sweet Cecily, full of light and laughter.

What she might do for a troubled soul.

“Kai, I wondered something,” she said, and he turned around.

“Aye?”

“Will you stay with us a little while longer? I know you have your own duties, but I would very much like you to meet my sister, since you are like a brother to Cory.” She tried not to smile so that he did not suspect anything. “It would be nice to have you for longer, anyway. I hope she will be here within the month. What say you?”

Kai looked surprised, and his eyes moved from one person to another as if he was seeking a trick.

“Well, that would be kind of ye tae have me. But I daenae want tae overstay me welcome.”

“Ye couldnae, old friend,” Cory said. “We would be glad tae have ye. And like she said, ye are like a brother tae me, and so I want Cecily tae be able tae meet the last remainin’ member of me family.”

Kai nodded, rubbing a hand on the back of his neck. “Aye, then, I will.”

“Wonderful!”

They spent the rest of the evening feasting, playing games, and enjoying the company. Helen had never had such friends, and she hoped it would continue. While Kai, Cam, and Ella were engaged in conversation over some humorous situation, Cory leaned over and whispered, “Tell me. Why dae ye want tae matchmake?”

“I think Kai and me sister could be very happy. I just thought that with Cecily’s brightness, she could scare away whatever shadows lie in Kai’s past.” She shrugged and looked at Cory.

He was narrowing his eyes at her. “But is it also true that ye are so happy that ye want everyone else tae be so? Ye didnae answer me earlier.”

“Ah, I forgot,” she teased. Leaning forward, she whispered against his mouth, “Yes, my love; you are right. I am so terribly, disgustingly happy. It seems only fair that I should help others to find the same.”

He kissed her, and when he drew back, he said, “Only fair, indeed.”

The End.

If you want to know what lies ahead in our story, you may want to get the sequel…

Seduced by Highland Lies

In a bid for survival after witnessing her brother’s death, Cecily Ridley embarks on an unforeseen journey—one that involves stealing her cousin’s husband. Guilt and desire clash as her heart ignites for the deluded spouse that was never supposed to be hers.Yet, her family’s secrets unravel, threatening her brother’s fate may be about to repeat itself…