Extended Epilogues

 

A few weeks later

“Could ye two have made me wait any longer tae have me bride?” Torion grumbled to Kai as they stood in the front of the small chapel in the castle.

Both Kai and Rae stifled chuckles. “It was nae me idea, but Cecily’s. She wants tae keep Adelaide safe, and she feels a responsibility towards her, after all that has passed.”

“Aye, but surely she can see how much I love the woman. I’ve gone bloody mad fer her.”

“Aye, that is true,” Rae agreed, and Torion threw him a dark look, making his cheerful brother laugh all the more.

“Soon it will be yer turn, Rae,” Torion said, and this time, Kai laughed.

“Och, I think the three of us are cursed tae love strong women so much we can barely see straight.”

“Nae me, surely,” Rae complained. “As if ye think that I could settle down.”

Torion’s lips twitched as he stared out at the full chapel. His little brother didn’t know of how love could sneak up on a person. It was full of close friends and servants, even the men of the Council were there, looking pleased that yet another McLaren man was marrying an English woman.

“It will strengthen things,” one of the old men had told him, but Torion had merely scoffed at him. He would marry Adelaide no matter where she hailed from.

His hands were sweating, and he pulled on his coat, as well as the tartan over it. This was a big moment for him, a moment he had never thought possible. He stared at the chapel doors, awaiting his bride.

Kai touched his arm. “I was just as nervous as ye, when we were married again, lad. Dinnae worry, though. Ye are makin’ the right decision. She is a good woman through and through, although I did have tae question her mind seein’ as how much love comes out of her eyes when she stares at ye.”

Torion elbowed him in the chest, but his heart swelled, and his skin heated a bit. He looked at her just the same way, and he couldn’t believe just how lucky he was.

The doors opened, and then she was there, dressed in a dark, beautiful green, a McLaren tartan laid over one shoulder, clasped with a brooch, and thistles in her hand. His mouth fell open as she walked toward him, her hand in Cillian’s arm.

She was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen, her golden curls half-pinned up, the other half laying across her shoulders. She smiled more, the closer she got, her lovely green eyes looking even brighter as she finally stood in front of him, his hands reaching out for hers.

The minister began, but he could hardly hear him over the pounding of his heart in his ears. She, this woman with such a heart of compassion and kindness and love, a woman full of fire and passion, was marrying him. She loved him! He pondered that thought until the minister asked him to repeat his vows.

He watched Adelaide’s mouth as she did the same, and their hands were bound, tying them together for eternity. Then it was over. He had to be nudged by Kai, and then he realized that the minister had told him to kiss her. A little chuckle rippled over the small crowd, and he leaned forward, pressing his lips to hers. When she placed her hands on his cheeks, his whole body relaxed. This was so right, and he couldn’t wait to begin this new life.

It was time for the feast. He took her hand, and they left the chapel, people clapping and smiling at them as they went. When they reached the hall, the feast was prepared, and the room filled with eager guests and villagers. He quietly led Adelaide to a table, and when he sat down next to her, he drew her hand to his lips.

“Are ye happy, me love?” he asked.

“I do not think you know how happy I am, husband.”

He beamed. “Ye are happy tae live here in Scotland?”

“Aye,” she said with a wink, and then she leaned over to kiss his cheek. “I will live anywhere that you live. You have given me a future, my love, and you have forgiven my past.” Her eyes flicked to Cillian, who had a drink in his hand and was smiling as he spoke to a young lady. “You are everything to me.”

“Then let’s get the bloody hell out of here,” Torion said grumpily, annoyed when the music began, and the room filled even more, food started to be served.

She chuckled, waving to someone as she tapped his hand. “Good things come to those who wait. So, Cecily tells me.”

“Och, the lass who has been thwartin’ me at every turn?” he asked, and she laughed again.

“I rather enjoyed it myself.” Adelaide turned to him, stroking a finger down his cheek, making him shiver. “I liked to see you want me just as much as I want you.”

He sighed and kissed her. “Well, you will be seein’ that forever, Adelaide.”

“I hope so.”

***

Adelaide wasn’t sure if she’d ever laughed as much as she had at her wedding feast. She had met practically every villager in the nearby villages, it seemed, and she’d finally spent time with Cecily’s sister Helen and her husband, Cory, who lived not far away. Rae had danced with her time and time again until Torion grumbled with jealousy, after which he had danced with her too. They had even invited Mae and her father, and she spent time regaling them with all the tales of their adventures. Cillian seemed happy and spoke to people, but he did keep to the shadows.

He looked better every day, and she knew that he would cause quite a ruckus when he went to England to claim the title as the new, young, and very handsome Earl of Seton. The McLaren brothers had forgiven him, but she knew it would take time for all wounds to heal over.

By the end of the feast, her belly was full, her limbs were warm from perhaps too much wine, and her smile was ever-present. They were saying their goodbyes, and Torion was clasping her hand, pulling to bring her up to bed.

“Perhaps one day we will get a house near the castle, if ye like,” he told her as they walked slowly down the passageway.

“The castle is surely big enough for all of us for now,” she told him, leaning her head against his shoulder and yawning.

“Dinnae say that ye are tired, me love,” he said in a faux, warning tone.

“I am tired but in only the best way. I have never had so much… life surrounding me, Torion. My burden is lost, and I am simply me. I have so much love around me that I don’t know what to do with it.”

They entered his room, and he shut the door behind them. She stopped speaking when she saw a beautiful sight before her. The room was covered with candles from the desk to the washing table to the trunk. They were encased in glass, so they would not fall over. The bed was massive, covered in furs, and a fire was in the hearth. Someone must have put a spiced log on the fire, for the room smelled warm and happy and sweet.

“Torion, I—”

She spun around and found herself in his arms. He smiled down at her, looking so handsome, it hurt. His dark eyes flashed, full of love.

“Dae ye like it?”

“Yes. I love it.” She leaned up on her tiptoes to kiss him.

“Come with me, then,” he said, leading her to the edge of the bed where he began to unpin the tartan and untie the laces of her bodice.

She let him, using her own hands to remove his tartan and jacket. They worked in silence until they were bare before one another. With a grin, he leaned down to kiss her shoulders and then her breasts. When he pulled one taut nipple into his mouth, she gasped, her fingers curling in his hair.

“Damn it, woman, how have ye have kept such perfect breasts from me? I saw them that one day in the tub, and I have thought of little else since.”

“We were imprisoned afterward! And you had to fight a battle!”

He picked her up and laid her on the bed, his body crawling over hers. “Aye, and yet these breasts were never too far from me mind.” He lowered his head again to lay more kisses upon them before he descended further, to kiss the place that ached most for him.

“Torion,” she breathed, and she pulled on him to rise back over her. “I want you,” she whispered, and he placed his hips between her legs.

“And I ye,” he said. “I ken we have already been together a few times, but it has been some weeks since I’ve had ye last.” He winked as he held himself above her. “It will be fast, but then the next time, I want it tae take longer.”

“We have a lifetime for that, Torion,” she said, lifting her legs to wrap around his waist, making his eyes widen. “But now, I want this.”

“And here I thought ye a frightened flower, without an ounce of boldness.”

“Oh!” she gasped with fake outrage. “And I thought you cold as ice.”

When he slid inside her, they both let out a moan of pleasure, and she shuddered a little in his arms. He grinned, caging her with his arms and beginning to move his hips.

“Is that true? Did ye think me cold?”

“Yes,” she managed to stammer, the pleasure already growing inside her.

“And what dae ye think now?” he breathed, kissing her cheek, and flicking a tongue against her ear.

“That ye are the best man I know and as hot as fire.”

That spurred Torion on, and she wrapped her legs tighter as he plunged deeper and harder, getting to the heart of her. She let go then, yelling out his name as her pleasure came, and she shook beneath him. When he came with a roar, he held tight, thrusting once more into her before he relaxed, and he stayed where he was, looking down at her. He laid a soft kiss on her lips before he slid to the side.

When she was recovered, she said, “I know the nickname you have for me.”

“Och, dae ye?”

“Yes. You said it to me weeks ago, but you have not said it since. Why on earth are you calling me trouble?” she asked.

He laughed, his chest rumbling against her back as he pulled her close, kissing her shoulder. “I call ye trouble because ye came in and destroyed everythin’ I thought I had built, with one kiss.”

“But you make it sound bad.”

“Nay, love. I needed it. Ye are the best kind of trouble, and I wouldnae trade anythin’ we’ve had for the world.”

“I suppose I ought to have a nickname for you. Perhaps Smug or Brute.”

He laughed again. “Ye see? Ye’re bloody trouble.” She wriggled against him, and he groaned. “Just what I meant. Dinnae dae that, if ye daenae wish me tae take ye again soon.”

“This?” She wriggled again, and then turned in his arms. “If I am to be named thusly, then I plan on being troublesome for the rest of our lives.” She pressed a hand to his cheek.

“Good, trioblaid.” He turned to kiss her palm. “Good.”

The End.

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One month later

The wedding was a lavish affair. Lana had tried to avoid most of the unnecessary things, but Alba and Evelyn had insisted that it was, in fact necessary; all of it. After the quiet ceremony, attended only by their close family, Lana had walked into a great hall that was filled not only with clansmen and women, but also food, drink, and flowers decorating every column and every bare space on the tables.

The cooks had outdone themselves, serving enough roasted meat for an army.

I suppose there is an army in here, though.

Lana recognized a few men from her own clan there, men in high positions that held plenty of influence. Nothing had been decided yet about the future of the Hay Clan, and Lana knew it was none other than the three Murray brothers–Tate, Magnus and Scott–who had invited those men there. It would be good to have them on their side, she knew.

All that mattered to her, was that Deirdre was finally there. She had given up the habit for now, and she didn’t yet know what the future held for her.

“Ye look so bonnie, Lana,” Deirdre said, taking Tate’s seat next to as he was absorbed in a conversation with Kian and Macauley at the other end of the table. “Ye look happy.”

“Ach, Deirdre.” Lana smiled at her, taking a good look at her now that they were sitting close. Every day, she seemed to be getting more mature. She had had a lot of responsibility suddenly thrust into her hands, what with the clan being in her care now, but she was handling it beautifully. “Ye ken… the older ye get, the more ye resemble Maither.”

Deirdre only knew their mother from portraits, the few that still remained in Hay Castle. But Lana remembered her, though faintly.

“Ye think so?” Deirdre asked.

“I dae,” Lana said. “Yer husband will be very lucky.”

“I told ye, I dinnae ken if I wish tae marry,” Deirdre said. “It’s nae so bad, the life o’ a nun.”

“I ken,” Lana assured her. “But it’s nae so bad, bein’ married either, after all.”

“Ye only say that because Tate is yer husband,” Deirdre said with a short laugh. “If it had been Laird Cummings…”

“Well, then I suppose I would have done me best tae become a widow,” Lana said, surprising even herself with that confession. For a moment, Deirdre gaped at her in disbelief, before she burst out laughing.

“Are ye enjoyin’ yerselves?” Tate asked, sliding behind Lana and placing his hands on her shoulders. Lana leaned into his touch, still craving it, even though they had already had plenty of each other. It turned out that neither she nor Tate were willing to wait a month for their wedding to share a room once more. Besides, no one seemed to be batting an eyelid at them being together.

“Aye, very much,” Lana said. “But I would enjoy meself more if we danced.”

Without a word, Tate offered Lana his hand. She took it, and the two of them joined the people who were already dancing, gliding effortlessly into the crowd.

There was only so much Lana could dance, though, before she began to have other thoughts in her mind. She pulled Tate aside, to a dark corner where no one else could see or hear them, the rest of them too busy with the feast to take any notice.

“I think it’s time we go tae our chambers,” she said. “Dinnae ye think?”

It was all it took for Tate to grin and take her hand, leading Lana out of the great hall through a back door, so that no one would try and stop them. They rushed past the kitchens and around to the garden, before using another small entrance to head back inside the castle.

They ended up by the drawing room, and from there, it was only a flight of stairs to their bedroom, where Tate closed the door firmly behind them. He wasted no time before he pressed Lana against it, his mouth landing on her neck with a groan.

She had thought she was the one who was eager, but now Tate was proving her wrong.

“I’ve been waitin’ all day fer this,” he said. “I’ve been thinkin’ about bein’ inside ye ever since I woke up this morn and ye werenae there.”

Lana moaned at Tate’s words, tipping her head back to bare her neck to him. She, too, had been thinking about him all day, eager for the moment they would be able to slip out of the feast so that they could finally be alone.

Hasty hands all but tore Lana’s clothes off her body, much to her chagrin. Under any other circumstances, she would have chastised him for it, but she was too aroused now, unable to think about the state her clothes. Tate quickly peeled back layer after layer, until she stood there in front of him, fully nude and dripping with want.

Tate fell to his knees in front of Lana and her hands found their way to his blonde hair, tugging gently at the strands. She pulled him closer to her, until his lips pressed against her most sensitive spot, making her arch her back in pleasure.

She would never get tired of this, and it seemed like Tate would neither . He loved pleasuring her, enthusiastically bringing her to the edge time after time, and this time, it wasn’t any different. His tongue dipped inside her, making Lana’s head fill up with nothing but cotton and her ears buzz with the rush of blood. Tate’s hands curled around her rear, pulling her even closer, forcing her firmly onto his mouth.

Lana canted her hips forward, selfishly taking her pleasure. Warmth built quickly deep within her, and she knew she wouldn’t last long, but she also knew her climax would be only one of many that night. She could tell by now when Tate was insatiable, and so she knew they had a long night—and perhaps an even longer day—ahead of them.

Her pleasure crashed over her like a wave only moments later, and she held tightly onto Tate’s hair as she moaned his name. She was glad that everyone else was in the great hall and that the sounds of the feast would drown out the ones she was making, as there was no way she could stop them now.

“Inside me,” she commanded, panting as she pulled Tate up to his feet. “Let me feel ye, Tate, please.”

Never one to disappoint or leave her waiting, Tate tore off his own clothes without any regard for them. Lana could have sworn that she even heard some of the fabric rip, but she didn’t care, not when those strong hands grabbed her hips and spun her around.

“Brace yerself,” Tate said, and as Lana arched her back, she also braced her forearms against the door for leverage.

Tate’s hands travelled down the expanse of her back slowly, his fingers following the curve of her spine. Then he moved them back up, circling her body to cup her breasts and squeeze as he pressed his manhood against her, rubbing the length of it on her folds. It was a terrible tease, and no matter how much Lana tried to get him to slip inside her, she couldn’t maneuver her hips the right way.

“Tate,” she said, her voice a high-pitched whine that brought a furious blush to her cheeks. She didn’t know she could even sound so needy, and she didn’t particularly like it, but Tate seemed to. A growl erupted from his chest, and he finally pushed himself inside her, filling her.

It was a relief and a joy at the same time. It was as though she had been deprived of water and had just found a cooling stream, comfort washing over her. Tate didn’t try to tease her anymore. His thrusts were as demanding as they were satisfying, hitting a spot deep inside her that drew moan after moan from her lips.

“So bonnie, Lana,” Tate whispered in her ear, lips brushing against the sensitive skin of her neck. His teeth grazed over it, and Lana gasped, shaking from head to toe as Tate picked up his pace, pushing deep into her as his fingers dug into the flesh of her hips, leaving small marks.

Lana wished she could see Tate, because she was certain that he, too, looked mesmerizing. He always did when they made love, strands of his hair falling to his eyes, that icy blue of them boring into her when their gazes met. She had never seen a man as handsome as him, and she couldn’t get enough of him.

But she didn’t want to move from the position in which he had put her. His length hit all the right spots like that, curving just slightly against her walls in a way that made her gasp with pleasure. She didn’t know why they hadn’t tried it before, but what she did know was that it would be far from the last time they ever coupled like this.

Her climax came once more just as Tate spilled into her with a shout of her name, the telltale warmth spreading inside her. He gave her a few more, short thrusts that only intensified her pleasure, and then his head fell against her back, strands of his hair sticking to her sweaty skin.

“We should get married more often,” Tate said, and Lana couldn’t help but laugh, the movement making him slip out of her. Lana didn’t want to move, but the position was getting uncomfortable, and there was a chill in the room she hadn’t felt before, for obvious reasons, so she reluctantly made her way to the bed, away from Tate.

Naturally, he joined her within moments. Curling around her back, Tate pulled the covers over the two of them and held Lana tightly in his arms, his hand coming to rest low on her stomach. “Ye wanted a bairn, did ye nae?” he asked. “I think it’s time we dae anythin’ in our power tae have one.”

“Or a few,” said Lana, smiling to herself. She would be more than happy to try, but for the moment, she was content to rest in Tate’s arms, to be surrounded by him, his warmth, his scent, leather and ink and the wine he had had at the feast.

“Lana,” Tate said after a few moments of silence.

“Hm?”

“I love ye.”

He said it so softly, so quietly, that a few tears prickled at the corners of Lana’s eyes. There was so much behind those three simple words, and nothing she had ever heard had sounded as sincere.

“I love ye, too, Tate,” she said. “I’ll love ye always.”

The End.

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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.

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

The Laird's Stolen Bride

Kayla Mackenzie, scarred by her fiancé’s sudden death, has vowed to avoid love. Yet, forced into another betrothal, she seeks solace in a forbidden kiss at her own engagement celebration. Little does she know, the mysterious stranger she kisses is her fiancé’s enemy, Payton MacDonell. And while Kayla despises Payton for blackmailing her to spy on her own husband-to-be, she cannot fight her growing feelings for him. Yet, as their passion grows, it is revealed that her first fiancé’s death was intentional. And the next target is Payton.

 

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.

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

The Stolen Highland Kiss

When Torion McLaren finds himself falsely engaged to Lady Adelaide Cavendish, he thinks things cannot get any worse. Until she vows to find her long-lost brother and he’s compelled to help her, despite his reluctance. But when love enters the picture, Torion and Adelaide confront a heartbreaking truth that will never allow them to be together. And in the tumultuous clash between love and family, there is no way to escape without a broken heart…

 

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.

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

A Night with a Highlander

When Arya Macdonell saved a lass’ life, she didn’t know she’d doomed her own. While hiding from her past, her life takes an unexpected twist when Gillebride MacThomas rescues her. Her savior, her brothers’ ally… and the one man who has turned her down. Scarred by his own past, Gillebride is determined to resist their growing emotions, but his forbidden desires are catching up with him as the stakes continue to rise. Because Arya’s past is closing in on both of them with alarming speed.