The Earl's Forsaken Bride: Scottish Historical Romance (A Laird to Love Book 6)

by Tammy Andresen

  Their hands entwined, she tried to tell him with her eyes that she would love him, try to be content with the role of wife. It was her duty.

  He spoke to her with his eyes too. Their depths so inviting. The edges soft with an emotion she only hoped was similar to her own.

  “You may kiss yer bride.” The smithy smiled at them.

  Callum didn’t hesitate, he swooped down, capturing her lips with his own. It was a claiming and as her free hand came up to touch his cheek, she pressed closer. Tonight she wanted to be his in every way.

  After all the documents had been signed, they returned to the inn. Elizabeth could hardly believe her eyes when she walked through the door. The table was laden with more food then she’d seen in quite some time. “What is all this?”

  “Our wedding buffet.” He smiled down at her. “I wish yer aunt could be here but it’ll have tae do.”

  She walked over to the table, picked up a fig and popped it into her mouth. It melted on her tongue just the way she’d remembered. Sighing, she went to turn back to him but he’d silently crossed the room and stood in front of her now. “You shouldn’t have,” she chastised gently. “But I must confess that these are delicious.”

  He wrapped his arm around her waist then and pulled her close. “I’m glad ye like it.”

  “After being a soldier, does it feel wrong to indulge?” she asked, her arms circling his neck.

  He took a breath. “I suppose it did. Does it feel wrong to you?”

  “I know others suffer. I’m no longer blind to it.”

  He brushed a piece of her hair back. “I understand. It’s why I married ye.”

  Then his lips descended upon hers and she forgot everything else. He slanted her mouth open as his tongue tangled with hers. She could feel her body heating. “Callum,” she managed to pant between kisses.

  His hands were on the buttons along the front of her gown, swiftly opening the dress until it hung off her shoulders. Pushing her arms out of the sleeves, the fabric pooled at her feet. He shrugged his own jacket and shirt off and stood before her in just his kilt and boots.

  The sight of his bare chest made her head spin. Broad and muscular, it was sprinkled with dark hair. Elizabeth couldn’t seem to help herself as she ran her hands up and down the muscles, feeling his coarse hair. “So strong,” she murmured as he pulled her back against him.

  His lips took hers again, bringing her ever higher until she was barely aware of her clothes falling away. When she stood in nothing but her shift, he wrapped his arms around her and carried her easily to the bed.

  “Yer the weight of a feather,” he grinned against her lips.

  She giggled, wrapping her legs about him. “I doubt that.”

  “Are ye nervous, lass?” He caressed her thighs, stroking up until he reached the apex of her thighs.

  She shook her head. “I still have my doubts that it’s going to fit but I trust you not to hurt me.”

  “It usually hurts the first time.” He pulled his head back, the lines of his face tight with worry.

  Her heart swelled further. It was so hard for her to entrust her welfare to someone else but Callum made it easy. No man was more concerned with the task than Callum. “I know you’ll be as gentle as you can.”

  He kissed her again, as he slowly lowered her to the bed. “We’ll go slow,” he murmured. “Careful.”

  She nodded even as she watched him remove his boots and then his kilt. Transfixed, he was even larger than she had imagined. “I changed my mind. I don’t think this is going to work.”

  He gave her a knowing grin and climbed back up the bed toward her. Pulling at the hem of her shift, he lifted it over her body. She resisted the urge to cover herself. “We don’t need to worry about that yet, lass. Just lay back and let me take care of ye.”

  She did as he bid. She really did trust him, despite her trepidation. He nibbled at her neck, then slid down her collarbone, across her chest and sucked in one of her nipples. Crying out she arched toward him, her fingers curling into his hair. He did the same to the other then moved lower still. As he kissed down her belly, the ache between her legs grew tighter until she could barely stand another second. She spread her legs wider, opening in invitation. “Callum,” she gasped.

  Instead of answering he brushed his lips against her folds and her body spasmed in response. Dear lord, he’d been right. This was better.

  She hardly recognized the sounds that came from her own mouth as he continued to stroke her, building her higher until she could no longer tell where she ended and he began. Reaching down, she twined her fingers into his hair, pulling him closer. Another cry fell from her lips as her insides twisted and ached in the most delicious way. Her toes curled with need as she pulled at his hair. Finally, she fell over the edge, shattering into a thousand brilliant pieces. Warmth spread through her as he skimmed back up the length of her body until his member pushed against her opening. She had forgotten to be nervous. He felt so good, his skin against hers, his weight a comfort she had never imagined.

  He thrust into her and a pinch followed by an ache made her wince but his body atop hers made her feel safe and loved even with the pain.

  “Ae ye all right, lass?” He pushed through gritted teeth.

  She nodded. “I’m perfect.” She was, absolutely and completely perfect. Never had she felt more connected, more safe than she did in this moment.

  His breath came out in a rush. “This won’t take long.” He stroked her hair even as he pressed his lips to hers over and over.

  Slowly moving out of her, he pushed back in and groaned when he’d filled her again. As he moved in and out the pain subsided and she returned his kisses pulling him closer still. “I never imagined it would feel so…” she paused looking for the right word. “Binding.”

  “Is that good or bad?” he asked, his breath coming in short gasps.

  “Good,” she whispered close to his ear. She tightened her grip on him wanting to be closer still. “Tell me we’ll be able to hold each other like this every night.”

  He cried out then, his body spasming, as he pushed into her one final time. “Always,” he replied as he kissed every inch of her face.

  He rolled onto his side, taking her with him. Snuggling into the crook of his arm, Elizabeth thought she had never been more wrapped in comfort and security in her life. His strength, his affection, his tenderness near brought tears to her eyes. No wonder women sought the protection of a man. This was divine.

  Splaying her hand over his heart, the steady thump made her eyes heavy as she snuggled closer still. She tried to remember the last time she’d been so safe emotionally and physically. Her mind searched for the word to describe it but she was too sluggish. “I never want to leave this bed,” she uttered before her eyes closed.

  Chapter Seven

  He loved her. It was unbelievable and beyond possible and yet Callum was certain of it as he watched the moonlight cast shadows upon her sleeping face. He trailed his thumb across the delicate curve of her lip. He had to make sure she was happy by his side because he couldn’t lose her.

  That much was perfectly clear. This was exactly what he’d been hoping to avoid, this emotional attachment. What if she saw how weak he was when the memories plagued him? Would she lose any affection she had for him? But how could he hold such a beautiful, intelligent, strong woman this close to his body and not want to cherish her?

  Impossible. He supposed that is why he’d avoided a physical relationship with any woman for so long. At least he knew she was strong enough to withstand the changing tide of his emotions.

  It was that thought that relaxed him enough to fall asleep.

  It was restful at first. But his guard was down, and soon the dreams came. He was alone in an open field, and Indian soldiers were everywhere. He couldn’t see them, but he could feel them. The grass shifted in strange ways, and the trees rustled without wind. While he didn’t dare stay still for fear of being found, every move he made, h
e risked being discovered.

  And then he was upon him. The bayonet slashed toward him as more men rushed him from behind. He let out a cry, half anger, half fear as he fought for his life, blood oozing down his face.

  He lashed out and felt his arm knock into flesh. Had he bested his assailant?

  “Callum,” a voice called to him. Soft and soothing it was in stark contrast to the dream. “Wake up,” it pleaded. “Wake up, my love.”

  Opening his eyes, Elizabeth’s face loomed just in front of his. She held his cheek in one hand her other hand covering her chin. “Callum?”

  “I’m awake,” he gasped, blinking his eyes.

  She wrapped her arms about his neck again, pulling him closer. “It’s all right,” she soothed.

  “Did I scare ye?” he asked, his breath still coming out in short gasps.

  “No, you warned me.” She moved her hand from her own face to touch the other side of his. That’s when he saw it, a darkening spot on her jaw.

  “Bloody hell,” he grunted as he touched the spot where he’d surely hit her in his sleep. Then he closed his eyes, shame making him bury his head in her neck.

  “It’s all right.” She soothed.

  “It isnae,” he spoke into her neck. “I promised ye I’d never hurt ye. We’ve only been married a few hours and already I’ve broken my promise.”

  “Stop it.” Elizabeth stroked his cheeks, kissing the top of his head. “You cannot count night terrors. Do you want to tell me about it?”

  He shook his head. “Not really. It’s the same dream I have nearly every time. I’m being rushed by several men, one cuts my face.”

  She held him tighter. “I used to have dreams that I was at a ball, wearing my ragged patchwork clothing. Everyone lined up and laughed at me. They jeered and taunted and I would beg them to stop. I couldn’t understand why they wouldn’t just leave me be.”

  “Do ye still have them?” he asked, leaning back to look at her now.

  She shook her head. “Not for a while.” She caressed his cheek, her fingers skimming along the stubble. “I know it’s not the same as your dreams.”

  “In many ways it is and it’s why I married ye. I knew ye’d understand more than most. Thank ye, lass.” He pulled her closer. “But ye shouldn’t be comfortin’ me. It’s me who should be takin’ care of ye.”

  She gave him a glowing smile then. “Pish. Even I know wives provide many comforts for their husbands. It’s one of the only ways society allows women to be strong and you, husband, will not be taking it away from me.”

  He gave her a wide grin, his fears forgotten. She was glorious. He’d chosen a woman who he thought wouldn’t run from his nightmares, but in some strange way, his weakness had brought them closer together. In all his imaginings, this had never occurred to him. How he had been so lucky to find her?

  “We’ll find other ways for you to show the world how strong ye are,” he said.

  “Do you mean it?” She pushed him onto his back, her body sliding on top of his.

  “Every word,” he replied. And he did.

  Her body was pliant against his, so soft and willing. He groaned as her hair cascaded around him. He couldn’t imagine being without her. And he’d do everything in his power to protect her.

  The past week had been like a dream, Elizabeth thought wistfully. Callum had spent his days rethatching the roof, while she tended her aunt. Without laundry to wash and mend, she was free to give Aunt Mary the care she needed to recover.

  And the nights...Callum had been correct when he said it would get better. Though, not wanting to be overheard by her aunt, they’d found themselves in a myriad of locations that afforded them privacy but not necessarily comfort.

  Elizabeth was looking forward to traveling to her new home where they would have the benefit of a bed chamber.

  Though the thought of that change proved discomforting as well. Would they still get along the same way when Callum returned to his responsibilities? And what would her life be like as a countess? Would it be managing servants and wearing pretty dresses? It made her shudder. She’d do it for Callum but in her heart, she wanted more meaning in her life. She’d come so far from the girl who would have been content with that existence.

  “Are you dreaming of your husband again?” Aunt Mary pinched her arm playfully as they sat in their tiny parlor.

  She blushed and, ignoring the question, stood from her chair. “Are you up for a walk around the cottage?”

  “So that we might ogle your earl? Absolutely.” The older woman grinned as she stood.

  “Please, do not ogle him,” Elizabeth begged as she held out her arm.

  Aunt Mary gave a small cough. “I’m an old woman. I can do as I like.” They shuffled to the front door. “Has he said how long the journey to his home in Scotland will take?”

  “Our home.” Elizabeth winked. “He insists on calling it that.” They stepped out on the front path just as Callum came into view.

  “I do.” He grinned at the ladies.

  Her aunt gave him a beaming smile back. “I just asked how long the journey will take. I think I am up for it whenever you wish to travel.”

  Surprise lit his gaze and his eyes twinkled as he replied, “Excellent, I’ve found a buyer for the cottage and I’m nearly done with the roof. We’ll leave in a few days’ time.”

  Elizabeth nodded but her insides tightened further. There was no going back now, not that she wanted to. While part of her looked forward to her new life, she wasn’t ready for the changes Scotland would bring.

  Callum studied her face, but didn’t ask questions and she remained silent while her aunt prattled on.

  Once back in the cottage, Elizabeth settled Mary down for a nap, then returned to the parlor where she found Callum waiting for her. Without a word, he pulled her into his arms. “Don’t be nervous,” he soothed.

  “How did you know I’m nervous?” She pulled back to look into his face.

  He kissed her, long and slow. “I’m startin’ tae understand ye.” He stroked her cheek. “I’ll try to take some time to get ye settled. Being a countess means ye’ll have to help the people on my land. But then we’ll figure out what else will fit ye.”

  “I love you,” she said without thought and then her heart nearly jumped out of her chest. She hadn’t meant to say it out loud.

  He hesitated, his eyes looking pained and she heard him swallow. It wounded her, his wordless rejection and she made to pull away but he stopped her and pulled her close again. “I don’t ken how Ewan decided to match us together but we’ll have to give him a proper thank ye when we see him next.”

  She supposed that was something but his hesitation, and the fact that he hadn’t returned her sentiment, left her feeling raw and open, where she’d been content and safe before. There was nothing to for it now, though. They were married, she’d made her choice. She could only hope that they’d come to an understanding of affection in time.

  The next few days passed in a flurry of packing and planning until the three of them set off in the carriage for the coast. They’d spend most of the day making the journey to the sea and then they’d sail that night for Scotland.

  She’d hope they would have time together on the boat but it was late when they’d finally set sail and the journey was short. Without meaning to, she’d fallen into a sound sleep only to be wakened when it was time to leave the ship and begin the final leg of their journey to her new home.

  Elizabeth sat next to Callum and her aunt across from them. The older woman had already fallen asleep, leaving Elizabeth and Callum in a state of partial privacy. Elizabeth found herself longing for the night as he brushed his knee against hers.

  The day passed with infuriating slowness until the air smelled of salt again. Mary woke, and Elizabeth craned her neck to catch a glimpse of his home, their home.

  “Does your castle overlook the water?” she asked.

  “Aye, it does.” Callum sounded amused.

  “W
onderful.” She clapped, feeling lighter than she had since the journey had begun. Her worries, forgotten for the moment. “Are we almost there?”

  “Nearly. We’ll pass through the village first.”

  “Can we stop there first for just a little while?” This would be where she shopped for food and clothes, spend time getting to know the people. Somehow, it was important to take it in.

  “That’s a fine idea, lass.” Callum reached for her hand.

  “I agree,” Aunt Mary said. “You two go ahead. I’ll stay here.”

  As the carriage rumbled over stone pathways, the driver stopped and Elizabeth and Callum stepped out.

  Placing her arm in the crook of his elbow, they started down the street of the village, passing the baker and the butcher as they made their way toward the end of the street. The sound of metal hitting metal pulled Elizabeth toward the smithy’s shop.

  Just outside two children played quietly. Even from a distance, Elizabeth could see that their clothes needed mending.

  Callum, seeing her gaze, leaned down and whispered, “Their mother passed last year. Damon is working hard to provide for them, but it is difficult to do the work of two.”

  Elizabeth swallowed the lump in her throat. She’d had her aunt to give her motherly love. Those poor children.

  Returning to the carriage, they made their way to the castle once again but Elizabeth’s excitement had been dampened. She sat staring out the window without really seeing. She wished there was someone to help the blacksmith and his family.

  As the castle loomed ahead of her, her thoughts slowly returned to her own future. His ancestral home was a massive stone structure, jutting up into the sky from its perch on a cliff. It looked as though it had been there for a thousand years and would be for a thousand more. Elizabeth turned to her husband. “How did you stay in that tiny cottage with us coming from this?”

  He gave her hand a squeeze. “I loved the cottage.” Then he leaned over to whisper in her ear. “It’s where we met.”

  She wanted to believe this was a declaration of some kind. But it wasn’t. Still, it was a momentus day and she wanted to enjoy it with her new husband. Taking a deep breath, she waited for Callum to hand her aunt out and then she accepted his hand as she stepped out of the carriage once again. A staff of twenty servants lined up to greet her.