Extended Epilogues

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• Series that follow people in the same family
• Series that follow people in the same clan or group
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Two months later…

Isabeau and Bonnie had both fussed over Lucia for the past several hours, and in that entire time, Lucia couldn’t help but feel like a doll with which the two of them were playing, trying to decide what she would wear and how she would do her hair.

She would never admit it, but it was far more enjoyable than she would have thought.

“She must wear green!” Isabeau insisted for what seemed to Lucia like the dozenth time. “It will bring out the color o’ her eyes.”

“Purple is far more royal,” Bonnie insisted, and Lucia had to suppress the urge to remind her there was nothing royal about her. She was nothing but a peasant girl, who had spent her whole life in plain, drab clothes and now whatever Isabeau and Bonnie could give her to wear would surely be far better than anything she had worn before.

The color of her dress didn’t matter to her, neither did the style of her hair. She didn’t care what jewels would be placed around her neck and wrists. She didn’t even really care if she would look royal enough, though she supposed she now had an image to uphold. Everyone expected her to act like a lady, like someone who had spent her whole life in castles instead of safe houses and taverns. In the past two months, ever since the council had agreed to allow her and Alaric to wed, Bonnie and Isabeau had taken it upon themselves to make a lady out of her. Lucia had quickly found out there were rules about everything, from how she should eat and how she should speak, to how she should walk. She could only assume it meant nobleborns had far too much free time their hands if that was how they chose to spend it—learning all those rules of etiquette that seemed entirely useless to her.

She still had trouble with many things; most of all, she could not hold her tongue. No matter how many times she was reminded she should speak gently, it seemed to her that she simply didn’t have such gentleness within her.

“What dae ye think, Lucia?” Isabeau asked, turning to look at her reflection in the looking-glass. “Green or purple?”

“Which one dae ye think Alaric will like the most?” Lucia asked.

It had seemed like a logical question to her. She was marrying the man, after all, and she wanted Alaric to think she looked her best at the ceremony and the feast that would follow. Isabeau’s and Bonnie’s response startled her, though. They both oohed and aahed at her, fawning over her as though she had said the most romantic thing in the world.

“Well, I’m sure he’ll think ye look bonnie nae matter what ye wear,” Isabeau said. “Besides, ye should never ask a lad what he thinks about what ye’re wearin’. They’re never right.”

“Especially Alaric,” Bonnie added, drawing a laugh from Isabeau.

“Can I nae wear somethin’… simpler?” Lucia asked as the two women held up the choices for her. Both gowns seemed too extravagant for her; rich colors, golden embroidery, beautiful designs. She feared all eyes would be on her if she showed up like this, but then again, she supposed she had little choice on the matter.

It was her wedding day after all; of course, all eyes would be on her.

“Ye must make an impression on everyone!” Isabeau said. “The entire clan will be there an’ many, many more guests!”

“Och , how great,” said Lucia and if either Isabeau or Bonnie realized she was only being sarcastic, they didn’t mention it.

In the end, she went for the green gown, and Bonnie had two maids untangle the mess that was her hair, pinning it up in an intricate updo. The women proceeded to drape jewelry over her, and by the time they were done, Lucia could hardly recognize her own reflection.

“Ach! Ye look so bonnie,” Isabeau said as she pulled her into an embrace. “Alaric will be so happy tae see ye.”

Lucia would be happy to see him, too. The two of them had been kept apart since the previous day as they prepared for the wedding and she already felt unmoored without him by her side.

It willnae be fer long, though. It is almost over.

All she had to do now was meet Alaric in the chapel, where many—too many—people would watch them wed, and then she would simply have to survive the feast.

Somehow, it seemed much harder than heading to battle.

“Come,” said Bonnie, taking her hand. “Let us head tae the chapel. Alaric must already be waitin’.”

Lucia followed the two women, the three of them making their way out to the courtyard and then towards the chapel that stood at the edge of the castle grounds. It was a small building, but no expense had been spared at its creation. It was just as opulent as the rest of the castle, and sometimes Lucia was still amazed at how much wealth was gathered in one place.

When they made it there, she paused by the entrance, heart leaping to her throat. It wasn’t uncertainty in the face of a lifetime by Alaric’s side; she was certain about that. She wanted to marry him, to be his forever, but there was still something holding her back.

Am I good enough fer him?

As much as Isabeau and Bonnie had worked to help her become a lady fit to wed a man like Alaric, Lucia still felt like a fraud. She was no lady. She was nothing but a simple girl and she couldn’t help but feel like an impostor, never quite able to blend in. There was no doubt in her mind that Alaric was telling her the truth when he claimed to love her, but was that truly enough to bind them for the rest of their lives?

Would it be better, she wondered, if he married someone more like him? Someone who knew how to eat and talk and walk, someone who didn’t constantly make a fool of herself?

Perhaps sensing her agitation, Bonnie grasped her hand tightly and pulled her aside, her voice dropping to a low whisper.

“Whatever it is ye’re thinkin’, forget it,” she said, and though her tone was firm, it was neither cold nor scolding. “Alaric adores ye. Naethin’ else matters tae him, so why should it matter tae ye?”

It was precisely what Lucia needed to hear to be able to breathe again. She felt as though she was drawing breath for the first time in days, a weight lifting off her shoulders, and she smiled at Bonnie, thankful to have someone like her as a friend.

Behind her, Isabeau beckoned her closer and Lucia approached her, now ready to face whatever she would find in the chapel.

“Are ye ready?” Isabeau asked, gentle as always.

“Aye,” said Lucia and knew it to be the truth.

As she stepped foot into the chapel, she saw several familiar faces staring back at her. The entire council was there, of course, to witness their union, as well as several members of the clan. One face she hadn’t expected to see was Tiernan, though it was a pleasant surprise. Perhaps it shouldn’t have been as surprising, though, she thought, as he had been the man to save them from more torment from Callum. Had it not been for him, Lucia was certain he would still be chasing her and Alaric, refusing to let them have a moment of peace. He was now a blacksmith at the castle and had left his days as brigand behind.

Dragging her gaze to the far end of the chapel, Lucia saw Evan next to the priest, smiling brightly. And there, next to him, stood Alaric, his dark hair for once combed neatly, his beard trimmed, and his clothes befitting of such an occasion, looking more handsome than Lucia had ever seen him.

And it was then, and only then, seeing the man who had captured her heart, that she knew everything was alright.

The End

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Was there a part that bored or that you didn't really like in the book? *

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You prefer a series about... *

• Forbidden romance stories (father's best friend; sister's fiancé; brother's best friend; etc.)
• An "academy" for future lairds and ladies

You think step romance is... (*A step romance is a trope where the romantic leads are connected by step-family ties (e.g., step-siblings, step-parent/step-child of similar age). *

• Too taboo for me. I don't like books with this trope even if I know the MCs are not related and have not spent years under the same roof.
• I like it as long as the MCs didn't grow up together and meet as grown ups.

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Two weeks later…

When they stepped out of the chapel, a great roar went up from the crowd standing outside. The chapel was just too small to fit them all, and thus, many of the guests had waited outside with growing anticipation until the ceremony was over.

Domhnall grinned down at Katherine, who grinned back up at him with delight.

“To Laird and Lady MacLeod,” someone cried.

“To Laird and Lady MacLeod,” the crowd repeated.

If someone had told Domhnall that there would be a day where he would feel as happy as he did in that moment, he would have called them a liar. In fact, if he had been asked to describe the feeling that currently ran through him, he wouldn’t have had the first clue where to begin.

Of course, Katherine had given him an answer immediately after he had asked her to marry him, and it was a yes with no hesitation. He had practically known, before he had asked her, especially after the conversation they had had beside the fire.

When he had told her he had sent a letter to the king, telling him that he was refusing to abide by his arrangement, and that neither of them wanted it, she had completely misunderstood him. But her disappointed reaction, and what came afterward, had proven to him that Katherine wanted exactly what he did. For them to be together for the rest of their lives.

With everything already prepared, and guests already on their way, if not, already arrived, there was really nothing much to organize, and thus, they made their vows to each other in front of friends and family.

Just before the wedding, Domhnall had been concerned, for Katherine would have no family present. He had taken her to the side to speak about it.

“We can postpone if ye like,” he had said. “I feel selfish rushing through this if there are people ye would like tae be present.”

Katherine had gazed up at him and smiled softly. “Everyone I want tae be here is already here,” she said. “Ye and yer brothers and sisters are my family.” A slight sadness had tainted her smile as she continued. “I have no more family.” But then, she pinned the smile back. “Well, that’s not really true. I have a new family.”

“Are ye sure?” Domhnall pressed.

“That I have a new family?” she quipped, purposefully misinterpreting his question. “Of course. Besides, I have never had sisters, and let’s face it, I had the worst brother in the world. I’m not sure Magnus and Kai can do any worse than blackmailing me against my will, using me to capture my beloved, and then threatening to kill me and the man I love.”

He hadn’t been able to help himself, for as dark as her remark was, it was also witty, and he had chuckled.

“Nay. I think yer braither set the bar so high, even me braithers cannae top it. Besides, they have fallen in love with ye, almost as much as I have.”

“Well, I do hope you have told them I’m spoken for,” she said, grinning widely.

He had leaned down and kissed her then. “Indeed. They ken that ye’re all mine.”

While on the outside, Katherine did appear a little more relaxed, Domhnall did not stop worrying about what was going on inside her head. Her night terrors still tortured her, but since the night he had asked her to marry him, he had not had to travel from his bed to get to her.

On occasion, during the day, he had found her gazing out of the window, her eyes glazed over in some sort of trance-like daze. And while his brothers and sisters had all agreed to try and lift her spirits by keeping her occupied, there was only so much they could do. However, knowing how deeply he loved her, he also knew he would be by her side as she faced each and every one of her troubles.

Once in the great hall, the light of hundreds of candles twinkled while the Yule log burned in the fireplace and the decorations made by the ladies of the castle adorned each and every corner, Domhnall, encouraged by the loud applause and whooping, stood before all those present and gave his speech.

“First, I would like tae thank all o’ the people here present, from near and far. I am grateful fer the people o’ our clan fer their continued support, and I am thankful fer all o’ ye that have travelled great distances tae be here tae share this wonderful day with us.”

The crowd clapped and whooped before he continued.

“I am also more than fortunate tae have a wonderful family beside me. Without me braithers and sisters, I wouldnae be the man I am.”

“Here, here,” Kai called out, sending the crowd into fits of laughter.

Grinning, Domhnall said, “I am lucky tae have so many siblings, though, I can say with certainty that some are loved more than others.” He then smirked at Kai, and the crowd, again burst into laughter.

Sounding a little more somber, and yet, not overly so, he said, “O’ course, I ken all o’ ye would, like me, have been delighted had me maither and faither been here tae see this and celebrate with us.”

The crowd nodded and muttered words of agreement.

“They were fine parents tae me and me siblings,” and then, looking up to the ceiling, he said, “but I ken they are here with us in spirit.”

“Indeed, they are,” someone called out from the crowd.

“Finally, I would like tae say how delighted I am tae have Katherine as me wife,” he said, gesturing to her as she sat beside him, gazing up at him adoringly. “I ken she is English, but we cannae hold that against her.”

The crowd burst into laughter, and when Domhnall gazed down at her, he delighted at her giggles.

“Over the last few weeks, I have seen a strength in her that would match any one o’ us here, and I ken she is going tae bring only joy tae this clan.”

“Here, here,” Magnus said, smiling across at Katherine.

“And now,” Domhnall lifted his tankard and watched everyone do the same. “I make a toast. Tae Clan MacLeod and all our allies. May we unite as Scotsmen and forever strengthen our bonds. And may we all have a very joyful Yuletide.”

The crowd roared and whooped, and when the drinks were downed, the music began.

The celebrations went on late into the night, and at some point, Domhnall noticed Katherine had gone missing. Panic washed over him as he searched the great hall, but he could not see her anywhere.

Magnus grabbed his arm and frowned. “What has ye so worried, braither?”

“Have ye seen Katherine?” Domhnall demanded.

Magnus glanced about him, as though she might magically appear, and then shook his head. “I havenae.” He then thought a moment, and said, “But I ken where she might be.”

Domhnall left the great hall and made his way to the library. The fire roared in the large room, and, at first glance, he could see no one. Perhaps Magnus had been mistaken by saying this was Katherine’s favorite room to escape to. But then, approaching the high-backed chairs beside the fire, he saw two tiny feet sticking out.

“There ye are,” he said, rounding the chair to see Katherine sitting with her knees tucked under her chin. “Are ye all right?”

He lowered himself to the floor, placing a plate of black buns he had brought with him onto a low table, and sat gazing up at her.

She smiled sadly. “Of course, I am.”

Domhnall frowned. “Did I ever tell ye, ye’re a terrible liar.”

“Well, we both know that isn’t true,” she replied with a knowing smile.

“Aye. I suppose, I cannae argue with ye there. But ye’re nae all right, me love. What’s bothering ye?”

Tilting her head, she said. “Do you want the list?”

“There’s a list?” he said, his eye brows flying up.

“Well, not a big one.”

He gazed into her eyes. “I can guess one o’ them. Ye’re saddened that yer faither isnae here tae see ye married.”

She nodded. “I am. I think you and he would have got along very well. In fact, you do, every night in my…”

Domhnall frowned.

“My nightmare,” she finished.

She had never told him what she actually saw in her dreams every night, and now, he was curious.

“What else happens?”

“Well, you and Father meet and are the best of friends. And then there’s a big gathering in the great hall. Not unlike tonight, actually. Father and I are dancing in the middle, and then,” she sighed heavily, “and then, he bends over and there is blood pouring from his stomach. And when, I look down, and I am holding the knife that has killed him.”

Swiftly, Domhnall pushed himself up onto his knees. “Och, me darling,” he said, taking her two hands in his. “I am so sorry. So very sorry.”

“I know I didn’t kill him. I just cannot ever change what happens, no matter how hard I try.”

He wanted to tell her that it would get better, easier, that the dream would eventually fade. But Katherine was no fool. She didn’t need to hear something she knew already. Besides, what use was that to her now?

“I have had many dreams about me faither these past few days too, me love. And dae ye ken what stays with me after each dream? It’s the feeling I felt in his presence. The feeling of complete and perfect love. When I was with him, it soaked through me very being, and never have I felt such immense love.”

“That sounds amazing.” She nodded.

“It was. But it has me thinking, Katherine. When we pass over, when we move into the next life, everything in this life falls away. The people who have gone before us love us perfectly, and are waiting for us. Just like yer faither is waiting fer ye.”

Domhnall was trying to comfort her, and show her something he could hardly put into words. He didn’t quite know if he was making sense, but then, Katherine gasped and her mouth fell open.

By her expression, he knew she had heard what he was trying to convey, and with adoration in her eyes, she gazed at him. “Thank you,” she breathed.

They shared that special moment together in the quietness of the library, and then Domhnall said, “Actually, I have another thing tae share with ye and then after that, we will need tae return tae our guests.”

“What is it?” Katherine asked, her curiosity now piqued.

Rolling up his sleeve, Domhnall revealed the surprise he had been keeping from her.

“Yer wedding gift. Well, one o’ them, at least,” he said, showing off his inner forearm.

“Oh, Domhnall,” she gasped.

With her eyes wide, she tugged at her own sleeve, pressing her slim arm against his thick one. With beaming smiles, they gazed at their matching tattoo marks before gazing at each other.

“Ye are me fire, me love,” Domhnall said. “Ye taught me how tae love, and now, the fire of passion I have fer ye will forever burn in me heart.”

And leaning toward her, he softly brushed her lips in a tender kiss.

The End

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• New series started from scratch.
• A new sequel to an old series.

Do you like the single dad/single mom trope? *

• I love it! I love reading about the parent-child connection.
• Not really. I prefer stories where children come in the epilogue, otherwise the story is a bit child-centered.

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The chapel, Castle MacLeod, a month later…

Sofia, looking lovely in her dress, placed the coronet of white and pink roses atop Raven’s shining black hair and then looked in the mirror to admire her handiwork.

“Ye make a stunnin’ bride, Raven, truly beautiful,” she told Raven’s reflection with a smile of delight. “Dae ye nae agree, Dahlia?” she added, turning her sunny smile on Arne’s sister, who was wearing a bridesmaid’s dress that matched Sofia’s. It suited her icy blonde beauty perfectly.

“She absolutely is. Arne’s gonnae be thrilled when he sees ye, Raven,” Dahlia assured her with a smile. She produced a narrow ribbon from the bodice of her dress and gently took hold of Raven’s wrist. She tied the ribbon loosely around it and patted Raven’s hand affectionately when she had finished.

“Thank ye, Dahlia,” Raven said, her nervous anticipation growing apace.

Catalina, the wife of Arne’s other brother Ivar came to stand with them, looking at Raven admiringly, making yet a third bridesmaid. “Ye look radiant,” she said, smiling at Raven in the mirror. “Arne is a very lucky man.”

Raven looked at herself in the glass with wonder. “Is it really me?” she asked, unable to stop smiling. Her dress was cream satin, with a pale-blue jacquard pattern on the bodice. Its simple cut flattered her figure, and she loved it. “I dinnae think I have ever looked so sophisticated.”

“Well, make the most of it then,” Catalina joked, making them all laugh. Raven had soon learned after meeting the dark-eyed beauty that she was wickedly funny and fierce too. But she suited Ivar perfectly. He was a wall of a man, another blond-haired Viking like Haldor. He appeared quite intimidating until one got talking to him about his brothers. Then he turned into a different man, his deep love for them obvious. Raven had warmed to him right away as well.

“Now, if we are all ready,” Dahlia said at last, “I think it is time we left for the chapel. Ye dinnae want tae be late fer yer own wedding, dear, dae ye?”

Raven could not help laughing at that, and as they left the chamber, she felt buoyed up with excited anticipation. It seemed like a wonderful dream that in an hours’ time, she would be the wife of the man she adored.

Arne stood nervously at the altar, feeling hot in his full kilt and regalia as he waited for his bride to arrive. He could hardly breathe with excitement to think that in a short while his beloved Raven would be standing next to him and exchanging vows. Today, she would become his completely, forever. Despite his discomfort, he felt on top of the world!

When he heard the chapel doors creak open behind him and the congregation gasp, he could not resist turning to look. His breath left his body as his eyes alighted on her, her arm linked with Everard’s. His heart swelled with love and pride as he watched her standing there, a vision of beauty in her elegant gown.

In her other hand, she was holding Thorsten’s small paw. They both smiled at him, and Thorsten, looking unbearably adorable in his miniature Highlander outfit, waved at him merrily. Arne’s heart was in his throat as the procession made its way to the altar as fast as little Thorsten’s little legs allowed.

He could see the lovely bridesmaids carrying Raven’s train, but he really only had eyes for her. He hardly took in the guests seated in the pews, a mix of the MacLeods and MacNeils, friends and advisors, who looked on with smiles as she passed.

When Raven finally reached him, she smiled up at him, her eyes full of love. He thought she had never looked more beautiful. Dahlia came up and collected Thorsten, taking him back to sit with her and the rest of the family.

“Ye look stunning, bonny lass,” he whispered, his heart thumping. He took her hand in his and squeezed it as they turned to face the minister.

“Ye look very dashin’ yersel’,” she whispered back, squeezing his fingers tightly.

Their gazes locked as the minister intoned the immortal words, “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today tae witness the joining in matrimony of…”

After that, things became somewhat of a blur. There was the time for the handfasting. Ivar came up and joined the ribbon around Raven’s wrist to the matching one he had tied a couple of hours ago around his brother’s. The knot that formed when they moved their hands apart would be a lasting symbol of their union and preserved as a precious keepsake.

At last, Arne heard the minister say, “I now pronounce ye husband and wife. Ye may kiss the bride.”

Needing no second bidding, Arne enfolded Raven in his arms and pressed a sweet kiss to her lips, putting into it all his love and devotion and the promise of a lifetime of bliss spent together. Her warm, soft lips responded eagerly to his, leaving him in no doubt that she shared his sentiments entirely.

“Ye’ve made me the happiest man alive, Raven,” he told her as they stepped away from the altar, to be greeted by a chorus of congratulations and well wishes. He found himself deeply touched by the warmth they received.

She smiled up at him and squeezed his arm affectionately. “And ye’ve made me the happiest of women, me darlin’ husband.”

Arne kicked the marriage chamber door shut with the heel of his boot when the final member of the raucous party that had seen them to bed in the traditional manner had left.

“This is very romantic,” Raven said, standing on the rug in her wedding dress as she looked around the room. Lamps had been lit, and a good fire was blazing the grate. The whole scene had a warm, rosy ambience that Raven found perfect for their first night together as a married couple.

“Now, I have ye all tae mesel’, all legal and above board, eh?” Arne exclaimed playfully, coming over and backing her up against the edge of the bed. He gently pushed her down upon it and stood over her. Raven smiled in welcome and opened her arms to him.

“Alone with me husband, at last,” she whispered in his ear, her hands on his shoulders.

“Yer dress is lovely, but ye’ll look even better out of it,” he said in low growl, making her laugh and gasp at the same time as he suddenly flipped her onto her stomach. The flame inside her sparked into life as she felt his hands working rapidly at the fastenings of her dress. It was soon loose enough for him to pull off her bodice. Raven watched as it landed on the rug nearby, to be quickly followed by her stays.

Now clad only in her shift and stockings, she felt Arne behind her, poised above her. She shivered, sensing his eyes burning into her skin.

“Mmm, what a lovely view,” he murmured appreciatively. Then, Raven gasped and giggled when his hands suddenly slipped beneath her shift and cupped her breasts, pulling her upward against him, his warm breath tickling her neck.

She moaned softly as he rolled her soft globes in his warm, rough palms, squeezing the flesh and pinching the soft tips until they turned hard at his touch, sending shivers of pleasure traveling the length of her body. His mouth roved hungrily over her exposed neck and shoulders, kissing, nuzzling, sucking and biting. One hand trailed lazily from her breast, down her belly, where his fingers finally entwined in the soft, curling nest between her thighs.

Raven trembled with anticipation, reveling in the sensation of his right hand still playing with her breasts, while the other slid between her thighs, his thick fingers prizing them apart just wide enough to grant him access to her hidden folds, which were already growing hot and moist. He cupped her entire sex in his palm, working his hand back and forth, while his fingers delved inside her, first one then another, his thumb strumming at her sensitive bud, making her moan and tremble with wanting.

With one fluid movement, Arne suddenly turned her to face him, and just the sight of him, his eyes narrow and dark with desire as his head descended between her thighs, filled her with lust. His hot, questing mouth plundered her flesh, teasing and toying with her sensitive bud, his tongue flickering like lightening in and out of her alongside his fingers. It was not long before Raven felt the waves of tantalizing heat coiling up from her molten center, where Arne’s dark head was moving up and down as he worked his magic upon her.

“Ah, Arne, please, dinnae stop,” she cried out softly, gripping his hair, matching every thrust of his fingers with her hips, riding him as the inexorable waves of pleasure began moving up her body like concentric rings, drawing her once more by slow, deliberate degrees to the delicious edge of delirium.

Her head thrown back, she bucked against him as the pleasure reached its ultimate peak and shook her entire being with its intensity.

Dazed and sated as she was, she had little time to recover when she saw Arne standing above her, his face slick with her juices, his glittering eyes pinning her as he kicked off his boots and tore off his jerkin and shirt. She felt a burst of fresh desire to see his muscular torso revealed to her in all its masculine glory. And she knew there was more to delight her beneath his kilt.

“I’ll never get tired of looking at ye. I need more of ye, come tae me,” she enticed him, inflamed by his hunger for her.

He breathed, grinning at her wolfishly. As he came down on his elbows above her, power seemed to ripple through his entire body, the hard muscles flexing like ropes in his arms, shoulders, chest, and belly. Raven was entranced to see how the fire light made the silver trails of his many battle-scars shine like moonlight.

“Nay, ’tis mine tae dae,” she told him breathily, levering herself up and pulling him down onto the bed with her. He laughed delightedly as, feeling bold, she straddled his waist, pressing the hot wetness of her sex against his belly. With a groan, he grasped her and pulled her close, nipping and sucking at her breasts playfully before his mouth captured hers and declared his ownership of her in a deep, intense kiss. Very gently, careful of her still sore scalp, he buried his fingers in her inky tresses as they fell over him like a waterfall, mingling with his own long locks.

“I need ye, all of ye,” Raven whispered, excited to feel his rock-hard manhood pressing into her beneath the material of his kilt. Suddenly, she sat up a little and reached between her legs to capture him in her palm. Then, she guided the head of his shaft to her entrance and slowly, deliberately sank down up on it, her mouth fastened to Arne’s in a passionate kiss as she opened herself up to him completely.

They held each other close, their bodies and tongues entwined, Raven rising and falling, with Arne’s length throbbing inside as if it would split her in two. When they finally came, it was together, panting, slick with perspiration and each other’s juices. Raven collapsed on this chest, and Arne put his arms around her as they lay in the afterglow.

“That was magical,” she whispered, stroking his cheek and looking lovingly into his eyes.

He tilted her chin with a finger and kissed the tip of her nose. “Aye, that must be because ye’re a wee witch, and ye’ve put a spell on me. A spell I never want tae break.”

She laughed. “I’m so very happy, Arne. I dared nae dream of this day fer so long, but now, here I am, really Mrs. Arne MacLeod at last. I love ye so much, and I’m so proud tae be yer wife.”

Arne chuckled and hugged her. “I love ye with all me heart, and I’m very proud tae be yer husband, Mrs. MacLeod. I cannae wait tae spend the rest of me life with me beautiful clever, brave bonny lass.”

Raven smiled with contentment as they cuddled up cozily in each other’s arms, to spend their very first night as a proper married couple. The past was swept away by the bright, happy future that beckoned for their happy little family. She could never have asked for more.

The End.

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Castle Mackinnon

One month later

Snow had fallen for a day and a night. Now it was not only the mountain tops that were covered in white frosting. As far as Dahlia could see from the battlements, all the land around Castle Mackinnon was covered in snow. She pulled her hooded cloak around her, covering her head, and looked across the magical, mystical landscape.

It was the perfect day for a wedding. The snow was no longer falling and the wind had given up its onslaught. The land lay quiet under its thick white blanket. The only thing moving on the ground below was a squirrel, disturbing the perfect whiteness with his tiny footprints as it darted between the pine trees lining the road.

Soon the peace would be shattered as the servants busied themselves with their preparations and by mid-morning the last of the guests would have arrived, their horses churning the mud and snow on the road.

But, for now she could lose herself in the dreamy vista and contemplate this longed-for day.

Swiveling at the sound of footsteps behind her the breath hitched in her throat at the sight of Arran’s tall figure striding toward her. She smiled. Would she ever get used to the little flurry of desire every time she caught sight of this handsome man?

He clasped her in his arms and she lay her head on his broad chest, tuning her senses to his breath and the steady beat of his heart.

“Me darling, I hope ye’ll nay catch cold up here in this raw weather.”

“Nay. Dinnae fash. ‘Tis gentle and peaceful and I’ve a warm fur cloak tae wrap meself in.” She smiled up at him. Despite the cold, his hazel eyes twinkled, mirroring her excitement.

The quiet was broken by sudden voices from below. A team of servants, armed with shovels, began clearing snow from the courtyard and laying straw to dry the cobbles, ready for the guests who would be arriving before long.

She sighed, giving Arran a cheeky grin. “’Tis time I took tae me chamber, me laird. I have preparations tae make. After all, today I’ll finally be wed tae the Laird of the Mackinnons.” Standing on tiptoe she brushed his cheek with her lips in a quick kiss before darting down the stairs.

Sofia and Catalina were waiting in her chamber with Beattie, while several maids came and went with pitchers of hot water filling a large copper tub in front of the fire.

Catalina chuckled when Dahlia hurried in. “We were thinking that ye’d decided ye didnae wish tae marry and ye’d saddled yer wee mare and ridden away.”

Dahlia tossed her cloak onto the hanger beside the garde robe. “Nay.” She grinned. “I already escaped marriage with two Mackinnon lairds I didnae fancy. Number three is the one I’ve wanted all along.”

Once the tub was filled, she stepped daintily into the water and sank up to her chin in the warm, rose-scented suds. Beattie soaped her back with a special cake of rose-soap and when she was done Sofia washed her hair into a giant lather. It was Catalina’s task to pour warm water from a jug to rinse the long tresses.

They dried her with linen towels before the blazing fire where she took up position in her warm robe while Catalina combed her hair. Once it was dry, Beattie’s nimble fingers formed it into a dozen tiny braids which they threaded with green ribbons and wound around her head in an elaborate coiffure. She studied herself in the looking-glass. Who was this elegant, beautiful lady and where on earth was Dahlia MacLeod?

Beattie slipped the wedding-gown over her mistresses head, taking care not to ruin her elaborate hairstyle. She smoothed the skirt making sure there was no hint of a wrinkle in the delicate fabric. It was made from yards of cream-colored silk trimmed with dark green velvet. It had a deep, flattering neckline, and a full skirt that swayed over her petticoats when she twirled in front of the glass. Just looking at the bonny garment made Dahlia’s head swim and brought a smile to her lips. It was by far the grandest dress she’d ever worn.

Sofia had made her a little circlet of green ivy and scarlet holly berries threaded with green velvet ribbons to match the ones in her hair.

“This will bring ye a long life with a loyal and devoted husband by yer side.”

Before leaving her bedchamber, she looped her hand through the charming wreath and carried it on her wrist.

When she entered the chapel, Sofia and Catalina walking before her as her maids of honor, she looked up to see Arran clad in his new kilt, his long hair combed so that it sat tidily on his broad shoulders. His eyes shone as he gazed at her making her way down the aisle toward him.

And there it was again. That familiar frisson of desire rippling through her at the sight of him, making her smile. In that moment, her most fervent wish was that they were already wed and alone, enjoying the pleasure she knew was in store for them tonight.

Father Deiran officiated and, as they spoke their vows, she caught a glimpse of Emilia wiping a tear from her eye. Then came the exchange of rings. As she slipped the ring over Arran’s finger, the old priest lifted his head calling on heaven to bless their union.

Haldor, Sofia, Ivar and Catalina stepped forward to perform the handfasting, lengths of ribbon in their hands.

Commencing with Haldor, each of them wrapped Arran and Dahlia’s joined hands with a ribbon. As they did so they wished them peace, prosperity and longevity. Then the ribbons were tied together, signifying the joining of the pair in marriage.

Father Deiran stepped forward; his head bent in prayer.

“As these ribbons hold ye bound together, may ye always hold fast tae the vows ye’ve made together this day. Ye’ve journeyed far tae come tae this sacred place, enduring many hardships, anger, fear and threats from wickedness. But yer love has never faltered. I now remove the ties.” He slipped the binding ribbons off their wrists and over their hands.

“Before I proclaim ye tae be husband and wife, ye must kiss three times. One for love, one for a long life and one for luck.”

He stood, smiling, as Arran leaned down to press his lips to Dahlia’s hand, then to her cheek and, finally, he kissed her gently on the lips.

“Now, by the power of the Heavenly Faither vested in me, I declare ye tae be truly husband and wife.”

Dahlia had no idea that such happiness existed as she and Arran walked together, hand in hand through the thronging well-wishers, out of the chapel, through the snowy courtyard and into the keep, their guests forming a cheerful, delighted gathering behind them.

The villagers came rushing in, taking their seats on the benches in the great hall ready to partake of the feast and to drink the health of the laird and his bride.

Their new laird’s wedding was a great celebration. Not only because they wished Arran and Dahlia well, but because they, too, were looking forward to a time of peace and prosperity. No longer would Bairre and his men terrorize the village. Men and women alike could now go about their business without fear.

The troubadours and jongleurs moved among the crowd, adding to the jolly atmosphere and heightening the festivities.

Seated beside Arran, in the center of the high table, Dahlia soaked in every little detail. Even the dogs lurking under the table begging for a piece of roast lamb or venison, made her smile. She wanted to remember this day forever.

“Are ye as happy as I am,” she asked.

“Aye. ‘Tis great happiness. Yet—.” Fer an instant sadness flickered in his eyes.

“What is it, me love?”

“I’d always thought Craig would be at me side when I was wed.”

She squeezed his hand, understanding the loss and his grief at Craig’s betrayal.

He gazed down at her, his green-gold eyes shining with love. “But there is naught that will disturb me happiness tonight.”

Tomorrow there would be talks between Arran and her brothers, discussions concerning lands and tithes and her dowry, but tonight Dahlia merely wished to luxuriate in the glorious sense that she was, at last, wed to Arran, and that their happiness was only just beginning

The musicians moved to the center of the hall and a space was cleared for dancing. As they struck up, she followed Arran to the center of the floor for the wedding cèilidh. They took up their position and, as the first notes rang out, they were joined by Dahlia’s brothers. Haldor took Sofia’s hand, Ivar was ready to spin Catalina into his arms and Arne, smiling for once, entered with his laughing toddler son, Thorsten. The wee lad, clad in his first ever kilt, joined hands with his proud father for the first round. Soon the hall was filled with wild laughter and whooping cheers.

By the time the musicians took a break, Dahlia was out of breath and her legs were almost giving way.

Arran escorted her back to their table. “Methinks it is time fer us tae leave our guests. They can enjoy the night without us,” he whispered, squeezing her hand.

She nodded “I wish fer naething more than tae share yer bedchamber with ye this night.”

After farewelling their guests, they quietly took their leave, their departure hardly noticed by the throng participating in the boisterous dancing.

Once they’d arrived at Arran’s quarters, he pushed open the door. She peeped in, curious to see the place where she would be spending her nights and many of her days from now on. It all seemed so strange and new. Arran’s rooms were far more spacious than hers. Having taken over the suite that had belonged to the lairds who came before him, including, of course Bairre, James and his own father, he’d taken great care to remove all traces of the rooms’ previous occupants. There was fresh, bright paint on the patterned walls and he awaited new tapestries to arrive from France.

Dried rose petals had been strewn across the rush floor and over the Persian carpets and a fire blazed merrily in the hearth. On a small table was a flagon of wine and two goblets inviting them in.

But before she could step into the room, he hoisted her in his arms.

“’Tis me greatest joy tae take me bride in me arms across the threshold of yer new dwelling place.”

She wound her arms around his neck as he slipped through the doorway. “And mine tae be taken.”

“Ah lass, I didnae believe we would ever arrive at this place. It was more than I could have ever hoped fer. That we were wed this day is me greatest joy.”

He kicked the door closed behind them and, as he lowered her to the floor, holding her as if he’d never let her go, he took her mouth in a long-awaited kiss.

She sighed, melting into him, her body turning to liquid at his touch.

When it became necessary for them both to gulp in a breath, she looked up at him through long dark lashes. “Ye dinnae ken how long I’ve waited fer such a kiss.”

“The first of many such exquisite dalliances,” he said, chuckling. He led her across to the fire, looking her up and down. “Ye were by far the finest lady in the hall this night, wife. And the bonniest.” He took up position in the large over-stuffed armchair and pulled her onto his knee.

“’Tis a bonnie gown if a tad uncomfortable. Would ye nae prefer tae have me take it off ye?”

She laughed as his fingers busied themselves with the laces that fastened the front of her dress. It fell away and he wasted no time in pushing down the gown and sliding her stays so that they pushed up her naked breasts making it easy for him to apply his fingers, his mouth and his tongue.

Moaning as he cupped her round breasts and took a hard nipple between his forefinger and thumb, she sank lower in the chair, leaning back against him.

He nuzzled her neck, breathing in the fragrance of roses and musk tormenting his senses. While one hand was busy with her rosy nub the other hand ruffled her skirt up over her knees, stroking the smooth softness of her thighs as he went.

She moaned again, shifting her position, parting her thighs so his clever fingers could gain access.

He slipped his middle and forefingers between her damp folds, stroking the slick flesh, causing a deep guttural sound to escape her throat. “Aye. That’s what I’ve been aching fer.”

As he caressed her swollen quim she squealed, writhing and gasping under his hand.

Almost overwhelmed by their passion he groaned. “Mistress Mackinnon, dinnae ye ken what I’ve been aching fer?”

She gave a soft laugh and trailed a hand over his thigh, pushing up the hem of his kilt so that she could easily take his granite manhood in her hand.

He threw his head against the high-backed chair, and closed his eyes. “Och!” he exclaimed. “I am suffering something fierce, needing tae slip inside ye.”

She shifted again, and he lifted her thighs so that her legs opened wider. He pressed each of her knees across an arm of their chair, stretching her, so that what he wished for was wide-open to his gaze. Then he raised her so that his manhood was poised at her entrance.

“D’ye wish me tae be inside ye, wife?”

Her voice was no more than a hoarse whisper. “’Tis all I wish fer, husband.”

With one thrust his hardness slid inside her. With a moan she raised her buttocks to better let him enter. Then he thrust again and they soared into their very own slice of paradise, somewhere between heaven and hell, where everything fell away except their own glorious ride.

The End.

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Was there a part that bored or that you didn't really like in the book? *

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Which was the part you liked most in the book? *

Even a character, a scene, or anything that you enjoyed.

Do you enjoy previews (2-3 chapters sent before the official release date)? *

• Yes! I love reading a short teaser before actually getting the book.
• No. I find them pointless and almost never read them. I prefer to start the book when it's out and I can continue reading.

Do you pre-order books to make sure you'll receive them before anyone or you wait for the release date? *

• I love pre-ordering books! This way I can have them earlier straight to my library and read them immediately.
• I usually wait for the official release date and get the book then.

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Two months later…

Music and laughter echoed in the great hall, where the entirety of Clan MacGregor had gathered, along with key members of Clan MacLaren, the two families coming together for Bonnie’s and Evan’s wedding. The day had passed by in a blur for Bonnie, as she had woken up in the morning and had instantly been thrown into preparations for the wedding. The ceremony itself had been so quick that Bonnie had hardly realized when it was over, and then the feast had begun, and everyone had come to offer her their congratulations.

Now, Bonnie sat with all her family, old and new—Evan, Alaric, Isabeau to her right and Macauley and Cathleen to her left, all of them enjoying the night.

Through the crowd, Bonnie spotted Macauley’s best friend and laird of Clan Drummond, Kian, approaching their table. On his arm, his wife, Deirdre, strode next to him with the presence of a woman much larger than her small stature.

Not for the first time, Bonnie considered how striking they looked together. Kian, tall and broad, with his blonde hair gathered at the nape, and Deirdre, a beautiful girl with hazel eyes that seemed to stare right through her.

“Kian!” Macauley shouted, standing to greet his friend. They clasped each other’s hand, their matching grins lighting up the whole room. “Deirdre, ye’ve been keepin’ him too busy, lass.”

“Ye’ve been keepin’ him too busy,” Deirdre said, the hand that wasn’t holding Kian pointing an accusatory finger at Macauley. “Always askin’ him tae visit ye.”

“Ye can visit with him!”

“Aye, as if I have naething better tae dae!”

Kian turned to Bonnie and Evan with a long-suffering sigh and an apologetic smile. “They love each other,” he assured them as he bowed. “Congratulations, Bonnie. Laird MacGregor.”

“Please,” said Evan, standing to greet Kian. “There is nae reason fer such formalities. Are we nae all family here?”

“So we are,” said Kian, visibly pleased. “I look forward tae learnin’ more about ye.”

“We’d be happy tae host ye fer as long as ye wish,” offered Evan. “Ye’ll always be welcome here.”

Bonnie could hardly believe just how much her life had changed in such a short time. Only a few months prior, she was fretting over her marriage, thinking that she would have to wed a stranger, a man who turned out to be cruel and selfish. Now she was there, with Evan, and there was nothing that could separate them anymore.

Only then did it sink in that they were finally married. They had been through so much, both of them, but now there was nothing but happiness ahead of them and anything that came to be, they would face it together.

As Kian and Deirdre turned to speak with Macauley and Cathleen, Bonnie turned her attention to Alaric, who had been sitting next to Evan with a look that seemed all the more morose as the night passed and with each refill of his cup. Leaning back on her seat, Bonnie waved at him behind Evan’s back, getting his attention.

“What is the matter?” she asked, concern seeping into her tone even as she tried to keep it light-hearted.

Alaric shook his head with a sigh. “Naething.”

It was just the answer Bonnie had expected to hear, but that didn’t mean she was going to simply accept it.

“I can tell somethin’ is botherin’ ye,” she said with a roll of her eyes. “Ye cannae hide from me.”

For a moment, Alaric gazed at the laughing, dancing crowd, before he dragged his eyes to Bonnie, giving her a small, half-hearted smile. “I am glad fer ye,” he said. “I really am. I am glad Evan didnae have tae wed simply fer an alliance.”

Bonnie waited for something to follow, but when nothing did, she asked, “But?”

“But I might have tae.”

This was news to her. She didn’t even know if Evan knew it, but then again, he surely had to. His council would have spoken to them both, announcing their intentions before they made any decisions.

“Alaric… I’m sorry,” Bonnie said, for lack of anything better to offer him. She knew just how hard it was to accept that one could spend one’s entire life married to someone they didn’t love.

“It’s alright,” he said, shaking his head as if trying to clear it. He smiled and though it seemed forced, it still gave Bonnie come comfort. “Perhaps it will be a very bonnie lass. An’ besides, there is nae one else in me life. It isnae like it was fer Evan. I’m nae disappointed. Only… apprehensive.”

As much as that could be true, Bonnie’s heart still ached for him. She wanted Alaric to find a love like hers and Evan’s. She wanted to see him happy, to see him smile like Evan did.

When Alaric turned away without another word, Bonnie looked at her husband, taking in his every feature as if she was seeing it for the first time—the high, handsome forehead, the slope of his nose, the full lips under a well-trimmed beard. With a smile, she reached for his hand under the table and the moment their fingers touched, Evan laced them together, taking a momentary break from his conversation to return her smile.

Surrounded by her family, her friends, with Evan by her side, Bonnie had never felt so loved.

The End.

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