by Nancy Pirri
He groaned, "Not that again."
"I know you have the resources and power at hand to help me."
"There is no question that monetarily I could secure the best solicitors. However, that does not mean the courts will give you custody of your sons. They may very well decide the boys should remain with me."
"I require your word of honor that you will help me when the time comes."
"What is the point of rebelling against my brother's will?"
Brianna pierced him with a hard look. "If Payton had been a good husband, do you think for one minute I would be fighting you at all? For two years I raised my sons alone. I do not wish for society to condone Payton's horrid behavior. And tell me, why is it unacceptable for a woman to raise her children without a man?"
"Because society has drummed it into the male species that women are the weaker sex. A fact which I have of late discovered is erroneous," he said, his voice filled with irony. "I'm afraid it will take another generation or two to change things. Now then, I have one more question to ask before we seal our bargain. Once we handfast will you come to my bed?"
Brianna met his eyes with a hesitant look but nodded, her cheeks reddening. "If I come to that decision, I will."
Harrison nodded in satisfaction. "Excellent. And if you do gain custody of your children, and birth my heir, will you be able to turn him over to me when it comes time for you to return to America?" Her face paled and her eyes widened as he continued, "Will you be able to turn your back on him? If you cannot, believe me when I say you do not want to fight me for custodial proprietorship in Scotland's courts."
Brianna rose and paced the floor, hugging her body. She turned and met his eyes. "Must I give you an answer now?"
He nodded. "Due to the element of time, I need to know as soon as possible."
"You promise me you will do all you can to help me obtain custody of my sons?"
"Aye."
"Then perhaps I shall agree to the arrangement."
Harrison frowned. "So, are you saying yes?"
"No. I'm saying I will think on it very hard."
Harrison's heart filled with such incredible joy he wanted to shout out to the world that she would soon be his. Perhaps. He frowned again as apprehension set in. Thus far, Brianna had proved to be independent and contrary. And there was the possibility that, in the end, she could decide against the arrangement.
"Harrison? What would happen if we did handfast and I birthed a daughter?"
He sighed. "Wouldn't count. I don't suppose there is any chance you would be willing to begin this procreation before we handfast, is there?"
Brianna swung around and headed for the door. There she paused and gave him a dimpled smile. "Do not worry. If I do agree to the arrangement, I'll have no problem conceiving."
He gave her an incredulous look. "How can you be certain?"
"As you have said; my sons are proof enough." She left the cabin.
Harrison sank onto the bed. Lacing his hands behind his head he stared at the ceiling, his grin slipping at the uncomfortable thought of his trickery. No one could have forced Brianna, an American citizen, to leave her home. No one could take her children from her, no matter Payton's death wish. No matter what lies Harrison told her.
Guilt niggled at him, but not for long. Up until now he'd always led a truthful, honorable existence. He'd had no choice but to make an exception this time. He must save the MacAulay estates. His clan depended upon him for his support, and if one were to say a single thing about the patriarch of Clan MacAulay, it was the fact he did not take his duty lightly.
CHAPTER SIX
January, 1889
Edinburgh, Scotland
A cheer rose from the passengers aboard the steamship Atlantis when it halted alongside one of several long docks rimming Edinburgh's shoreline. Brianna stood at the railing huddled inside her beaver fur coat. Snowflakes drifted down from the cloud-filled sky as she turned to Harrison, who leaned against the railing beside her. He appeared comfortable and warm, although he wore no overcoat, just a wool serge jacket over a white shirt and waistcoat.
"Now then, that wasn't such a bad journey, was it?" Even though his complexion was pale, Brianna knew he hadn't been ill in over a week. His dark hair had grown longer over their weeks of travel so he'd brushed it back and secured it at the nape of his neck with a narrow band of soft leather.
"It's bloody well about time we arrived," he grumbled, taking her hand.
She sighed at the welcome warmth of his hand, then turned her eyes to the magnificent city before her. Harrison's description of his homeland had not prepared her for the incredible beauty that greeted her. Tall buildings dotted the land. As she looked closer, she saw that one of them was an enormous, gray stone castle with several turrets and spires. She was struck by the strong contrast of vibrant-colored hues; from the magnificent brown and gray snow-capped mountains in the distance, to the nearer lush green valleys sprinkled with purple heather.
"I will find the boys while you stay here and rest."
"Woman, I am cross-eyed from all of the rest I've taken of late. The seasickness has passed, thank God."
"You are certain?"
"Quite. Of course, it helps that we have come to a standstill," he said dryly.
She turned away and had taken just a few steps when Harrison asked, "Have I been so awful?"
She scowled at him over her shoulder. "Positively beastly." Her expression softened. "But with good reason."
He followed her as she lifted her skirts in order to clear the ship's wet decking. He caught a glimpse of fine white lace edging the silk pantalets she wore beneath her mourning gown. He'd managed to convince her that she could wear some of the fripperies he had purchased for her.
Brianna was tall and full bosomed, a perfect match for him. She wore her dark brown hair pulled up into a soft style, twisted into a bun at the back of her head. Her sapphire eyes were her best feature. Her nose was rather long, but did not detract from her unique beauty. She is so fine. The weeks he'd spent with her he'd cherish always. But tomorrow could not come soon enough. Arranging their handfasting once they arrived at Winterhaven was paramount to anything else.
He frowned, bemused by her rejection of his marriage proposal. She desired no permanent ties to him, or to any man. Furthermore, she'd added, they did not love each other. He'd scoffed and told her he knew of many couples that had not loved each other before marrying, but had learned to abide one another over time.
Brianna and his nephews appeared on deck. They waited with the other passengers to leave the ship, and Harrison joined them.
She threaded one arm through his. "Who will be meeting us?"
"My coachman, Stanton, and Wesley, my valet. He will see to our trunks."
"How far away is your home?"
"Seven miles to the northwest." He pulled her along when he saw her grimacing, likely from the stench of the seamen's sweat, and the distinct odor of fish. "I feel an urge to burn off some energy now that I'm on solid ground. Stanton will have brought my steed along. I intend to ride ahead to the manor while you and the boys travel by coach."
They stepped off the ship. Jamie and Harry ran down the wharf, weaving through the crowd. Harrison called out, "Boys! Not too far."
"Yes, sir!" they chimed over their shoulders. They ran along the wharf toward the docked fishing boats. They stopped beside one fisherman who had rolled a large barrel down the ramp from a ship and set it upright.
Harrison grinned when the boys leaned down and watched the man pry off the lid, knowing well it was filled with fish. He turned to Brianna. "Would you care to ride ahead with me? There are a number of stables here in Edinburgh. I could find you a gentle mount."
"I couldn't leave Harry and Jamie alone."
"Wesley and Stanton will be with them. Ride with me," he demanded, his eyes telling her he wouldn't take no for an answer.
"I'm afraid I wouldn't feel comfortable riding a horse with which I'm not familiar."
He studied her thoughtfully a moment and said, "You may share my seat on Challenger."
"Laird MacAulay! Over here."
Harrison looked to the right and saw his valet waving his hand as he made his way through the crowd. He was a small man, tidily dressed.
"He...he is wearing a dress!" Brianna whispered, obviously shocked.
"It's a kilt. Even I wear them upon occasion," he said with a smile.
"Och, we have missed ye, Laird!" Wesley said, bowing deferentially. "Thank the Lord ye managed to survive both directions of yer journey."
"It is good to be home." Harrison grasped Wesley's hand. He wasn't just an employee, but a friend. He pulled Brianna forward. "Allow me to introduce you to Mrs. MacAulay. Brianna, I would like you to meet Wesley, who cares for my appearance more than I ever will."
The valet gallantly swept his billed cap off his balding head and bowed. "Happy I am to be makin' the acquaintance of poor Payton's widow. Welcome to Scotland, m'lady."
Brianna replied, "It is a pleasure to meet you, Mister...?"
"It has always been just Wesley." He glanced around and asked, "And where are your sons?"
Harrison pointed down the wharf. "There. Would you escort them to the coach? I assume Stanton is here?"
"Around the corner."
"And Challenger?"
Wesley snorted. "He's here all right. The beast has missed ye sorely, since ye are the only one he'll allow on his back."
"Attend to our trunks then, and settle the boys in the carriage. Mrs. MacAulay will be riding ahead with me."
"Aye, laird," Wesley said, then turned and headed down the wharf.
Harrison stared at Brianna and noticed her complexion had paled. He frowned. "What is the matter? Are you ill?"
"I'm fine. But I believe I will be more comfortable in the carriage with Harry and Jamie."
"Nonsense! You were cooped up on board that ship as long as I and need to stretch your legs."
Brianna lifted one eyebrow. "Stretch, you say? I believe a nice long walk would be just the thing, then."
Harrison stroked her cheek. "You will be safe. Trust me." He released her and folded his arms across his chest. "Of course, I can understand if you are fearful of riding."
"I beg your pardon," she said indignantly. "I am not frightened of a stupid animal."
He inclined his head. "Wonderful. Then you will join me."
Brianna gave him a frosty look and a curt nod. He grinned, snatched up her hand and pulled her across the street. They turned a corner and stopped beside an elegant black coach. The MacAulay clan's heraldic arms were emblazoned on the door in gold.
Ahead of the coach, and off to one side, a red-faced man struggled to hold the reins of an enormous tawny horse. The animal kicked and bucked in agitation at being restrained, but calmed somewhat at Harrison's approach.
Harrison noted the coach horses had been tied securely to a post. "Thank you, Stanton. I see that devil horse of mine is giving you a difficult time."
Stanton rolled his eyes. "Nothing unusual about that, is there? I will have ye know he tried his hardest to pass yer coach to get here, and he was tied up to the back of it, mind ye!"
Harrison laughed. "Good job, my man. I'll take him now." He took the reins from his eager employee and added, "I would like you to meet Mrs. MacAulay. Brianna, this is my coachman, Stanton."
The man ducked his head shyly as he passed an apple to Harrison. "Pleased to meet ye, m'lady." He backed away and scrambled into the driver's seat.
Harrison tugged on his horse's reins. "Settle down, you brute," he said, holding out the fruit. The horse snatched the apple from Harrison. Brianna gasped and backed away. Harrison allowed him one bite, took the apple away and tucked it inside his pocket. "You may have the entire treat once we arrive home." He looked up and saw Stanton settling Harry and Jamie inside the coach. "As soon as Wesley returns with our bags, head for home. We will be just ahead of you."
"Right away, Laird!"
Brianna rushed to the coach and peered in the window. "Now, boys, behave yourselves. Misters Stanton and Wesley will be caring for you while I ride with your uncle on his horse."
Harry thrust his head out the window and stared at Challenger with wide eyes, then looked at his mother. "But Ma, you don't know how to ride!"
"Shhh!" Brianna glanced over her shoulder, and saw Harrison easing into the saddle, relieved he hadn't heard Harry. "Yes, well, there is always a first time for everything, dear."
She squared her shoulders and marched back to Harrison. He sat atop the animal, one hand holding the reins, the other extended and ready to assist her into the saddle.
"Come up," he ordered.
She eyed the horse again, then Harrison's thighs, noticing how they were widely spread due to the animal's broad back.
"What kind of horse is he?" she asked, noting Challenger's shaggy legs. "He has fur on his feet, and he is very large. I don't believe I will be able to mount him."
"Challenger is a Clydesdale, a descendent of the war horses that carried armored knights into battle centuries ago. We breed and raise them here in Scotland, and they are used primarily as workhorses. When gelded, though, they make wonderful mounts. Challenger is a stallion and I lend him out to stud, which accounts for his somewhat restless demeanor. He is my first choice of mount, however, and he carries my size splendidly, though he is small for a Clydesdale. I will never win any races with him, but he is suitable for my needs. Now then, I would like to arrive home before my coach."
Harrison removed his spectacles and pocketed them inside his jacket. He reached back and opened a pack behind his saddle, pulled out a pair of leather gloves and yanked them on. Reaching down he clasped her arm and easily hoisted her up to sit in front of him. She gasped in surprise when he wound his arm around her waist, holding her in place, with her shoulder jammed against his chest and her limbs draped across one of his thighs. If he removed his arm she'd slide off the horse.
.
He drew her close, and her body made contact with his heated core. "Much better," he murmured. Then he clicked his tongue and Challenger shot off into a jaw-breaking trot. With further encouragement, the beast lengthened his stride into a gallop.
Soon Winterhaven loomed directly ahead, a red brick Georgian-style house of three stories. Harrison turned left and steered Challenger down the long cobblestone road. He brought the beast to a skidding halt in front of the manor house and vaulted out of the saddle. Just as he eased Brianna down to the drive, the massive double doors opened.
Brianna smoothed her skirts with a trembling hand and narrowed her eyes. "Have you lost your mind, Harrison MacAulay?"
He jammed his hands on his hips. "Why the devil did you not tell me you never sat a horse before?"
"However did you guess?"
He snorted and held up his injured hand. "Once we go inside you may tend to my wounds, woman."
She saw the nail marks there and grew defensive. "It serves you right for riding like the devil was chasing you. I cannot believe you normally ride at such a breakneck speed."
"No harm was done. You were never in danger."
Laughter and shouts drew Brianna's attention then. She turned a wide-eyed look upon the horde of young people hurtling down the steps toward her. The crowd hemmed her in and she emitted a panicked shriek of protest.
"Step back, damn it all," Harrison thundered. "Give us some room here!"
Astonishingly, they did precisely as he ordered. They lined up in two rows, facing each other like obedient soldiers taking orders from their commander. "Now then," Harrison said severely as he paced the aisle. "Never have I allowed this undisciplined conduct in my home, and I have no intentions of doing so now. What ails all of ye?"
A pretty girl with long black braids entwined in a crown upon her head bravely stepped forward. "Ye have never been gone for such a long time, and we're happy ye're home, cousin."
Harrison favored the girl with a genuine smile. "Have you be
en a good girl and kept up with your studies, Alice?"
"Oh, yes! Just ask Master Thornton."
Harrison growled, "I recall you had some catching up to do. I will be meeting with him tomorrow and hope to hear good news."
"Aye, ye will," Alice said, her cheeks turning pink as she returned to her place in line.
Harrison looked toward the front door where a handful of servants stood hesitantly upon the steps, waiting to perform their laird's bidding. He said to his cousins, "I would like to introduce you to Payton's widow, Mrs. MacAulay," he said, drawing her forward. "Make her welcome."
One by one, the MacAulay clan members stepped forward and welcomed her with lovely regard, and the servants did the same.
After Harrison dismissed them, Brianna asked, "They are all related to you?"
He nodded. "Nine cousins live here on a permanent basis, in addition to my grandmothers. And on any given day of the week sundry other relatives call."
"And let us not forget your one and only devoted baby sister."
Brianna looked up at the manor's entrance to see a petite young woman framed in the doorway. She was clad in a shawl of the MacAulay plaid over a bright red woolen skirt and white shirtwaist. Brianna admired the girl's auburn-colored hair and her gray eyes gleaming with laughter. They were remarkably similar to Harrison's eyes. Her nose was perfectly shaped and slightly tilted, her chin small, but determined, her lips full and tilted into a smile.
"Tess," Harrison said softly, swiftly taking the stairs. She raced down to meet him and launched herself into his arms.
Brianna watched the loving scene with a tearful smile. They separated then and Tess, who stood a step higher than Harrison, met her brother's eyes. They spoke softly to each other, smiling the entire time and holding hands.
After a few moments, Tess pulled away, darted around him and made her way down the stairs. She stopped in front of Brianna and caught hold of her hands. "Oh, you have no idea how much I have longed for a sister. Welcome home."
Brianna smiled at Tess's candid overture. "Thank you."
Tess turned to her brother. "You must give Brianna the suite of rooms next to mine in the west wing."
