The Lyon's Laird: The Lyon's Den

by Hildie McQueen

  “I am so very sorry for everything, Ronan.” Madeline looked like she was about to cry. Evangeline stared at Lucille, willing the feline to come to her. The cat decided, instead, it was the perfect time to groom.

  If she moved now, Madeline would see her. So she remained frozen slightly behind a tall plant.

  “I know you are,” Ronan replied and reached to touch Madeline’s face. “I still love you, but I must do what is best for me.”

  The man turned and walked away. With shoulders slumped, Madeline looked on. Both had their backs to Evangeline now, so she motioned to Lucille who gave her a bland look.

  Just then, Madeline called out Ronan’s name. She raced to the man and wrapped her arms around his chest. They were too far for Evangeline to hear what was said, but it seemed as if the woman had a change of heart.

  “Leave with him,” Evangeline whispered and then yelped when someone touched her shoulder.

  “Who are you speaking to?” Camren came up behind her.

  “No one,” Evangeline replied too quickly, turning to face him. “Where did you come from?”

  He pointed to a gate. “I was out with the guards and spotted your pastel gown.”

  “My dresses are quite different. I will have to get more serviceable ones made.”

  “What is going on?” He looked to where Madeline and Ronan stood talking.

  The couple was no longer hugging. But they continued in deep conversation. Evangeline motioned to Lucille, who finally deemed it time to pad closer. “I brought Lucille out, saw her. I told her that she was not to go anywhere near you. Then the man there showed up, told her he was leaving. She chased after him. They hugged and now I think she may be going with him.”

  Camren looked from Lucille to the couple and lastly to her. “I hope so. He is a good man.”

  “She left him for you,” Evangeline pointed out. “How could you do it, knowing he is…”

  “I didn’t know about him until much later.” Camren took her hand.

  Evangeline reached down to pick up her cat who at once began purring. “I am still not sure how I feel about her.”

  “Lucille? She’s a good cat, I’m sure.”

  “Not the cat…”

  Camren pressed a swift kiss to her lips. “Aren’t you famished?”

  “We just ate.”

  His lips curved. “It’s been hours.”

  “I am going inside.”

  “Walk with me.” Camren tugged her hand. “I wish to spend some time alone.”

  Evangeline walked with him around the building and down a light slope to a grassy area facing the shore. She stopped in her tracks at seeing a blanket spread on the ground. Next to it was a basket with bread and fruit.

  “A picnic…” she blinked and looked to Camren. “For me?”

  “For us,” Camren said, pulling her to sit on the blanket with him.

  “How delightful.” Evangeline smiled broadly. “This is a first for me. I’ve picnicked with my family, but never a romantic one.” She lowered to the blanket and arranged her skirts to the side after releasing Lucille who immediately decided the blanket was the perfect place to nap.

  Camren lowered to one knee. “I have something to tell you.” He took her hand and pierced her with a straight look. “I discovered something while speaking to my brother and Gideon last night.”

  The sense of her stomach falling made her flinch. “What happened?” she asked in a tiny voice.

  “I am in love with you.” The green specks in his hazel gaze darkened. “I think I fell in love with you the first moment I saw you sitting in a carriage at Hyde Park.”

  Evangeline swallowed. “I didn’t think you noticed me.”

  “A man would have to be blind not to.”

  “But what happened last night that brought this realization?”

  He chuckled. “Ian was informing Gideon of his way with woman and pointed out some things that made me think. I realized that I never wish to be with anyone else but you. I am in love with you, Evangeline Prescott Maclean and look forward to our life together.”

  In that moment, it was as if every emotion she’d held inside since her fall from grace loosened. Evangeline covered her face with both hands and began sobbing.

  “Th-that… is s-so be-beauti-f-ful,” she stammered. “I-I love…” she couldn’t speak as the overwhelming waves of emotions swept her away.

  Every so often, the reason for why something had to happen becomes clear and Evangeline knew that if not for her foolish actions, she would have never married Camren Maclean. Her perfect match.

  Placing his fingers under her chin, he lifted her wet face. “Why are you so upset?”

  “I’m not upset,” she managed. “I’m happy.” She pointed at what was surely a blotchy face. “I am so very h-happy.”

  Camren laughed and kissed her. “In that case, I am glad.”

  “I love you, too,” Evangeline said when the kissed ended. “Very much.”

  Chapter Nineteen

  A Month Later

  As afternoon fell over the keep, a restlessness she’d felt for days returned. There was plenty to do in her new home. Camren’s mother had abdicated many of the duties of overseeing the house to her, preferring to advise instead of doing. The woman spent most of her time in the garden or helping care for Ian’s newborn son, the first grandchild.

  The wedding feast and celebration had lasted for three entire days. Now, she and Camren had many social obligations as they’d received countless invitations to sup with nearby lairds. They also planned a trip the visit the larger Maclean Clan off the coast on the Isle of Mull.

  She’d visited the local village on several occasions with Adele, who loved greeting the people there and shopping for different things at the square. They’d even enjoyed a delightful meal at the tavern. The owner, a ruggedly handsome man, had refused to charge for their meals.

  So far, the entire move to Scotland had proved a good change. Her husband was handsome and attentive, she got along well with his family and other than learning Gaelic, which she’d already picked up a few phrases, there was nothing to complain about.

  Admittedly, she missed London, but couldn’t claim to miss the social events, as she’d not attended hardly any in years. However, she did wake some mornings wishing to find Martha in the kitchen to share a cup of tea with. Reading letters from her mother was not a replacement for seeing her daily.

  “Lady Maclean,” Molly said from behind her. “Would you like me to gather some flowers for your sitting area?”

  “No, thank you, Molly. I plan do so myself later today. Or perhaps tomorrow.” She looked over her shoulder at the maid who pulled a gown out and hung it on the wardrobe door. “What is that for?”

  “Laird and Lady MacLachlan’s visit,” Molly replied. “They are to be here for last meal. I was told by the housekeeper to ensure you wore something fashionable to outshine everyone, as the laird’s mother does not care for the woman.”

  “Ah, yes, I remember now.” Evangeline giggled. “The woman was not at all friendly at the wedding. I suppose there must be something that happened in the past between them.”

  The maid shrugged. “Your mother said to make sure to remind you to wear lilac when you wish to look your best.”

  At the words, her throat constricted. “She did love that color on me.”

  Evangeline turned away to peer out again so Molly would not see that tears stung and threatened to spill.

  In the distance, a large carriage appeared, a second one behind. The visitors were traveling at a slow speed, not seeming to rush to arrive.

  “They arrive.” Evangeline went to the mirror. Currently, she wore a cream dress. It was cut simply with a square collar and short, bell-shaped sleeves. There was little in the way of adornment which made the pearl buttons and peeking of lace around the waist stand out.

  Although not elaborate, Evangeline knew the dress enhanced her skin tone and brought out the green in her eyes. The cut was flatte
ring as well, showcasing her small waist.

  There wasn’t anything to do as her hair was styled and her skin was flushed from the fresh air that blew in through the window.

  When she descended the stairs, Camren, Ian and their mother were already heading to the door.

  “Who is it?” Mariel asked.

  “I don’t know, Mother,” Camren said and turned to see that Evangeline approached. He held out his hand to her. “We are about to greet whoever it is that comes.”

  The Highland tradition of greeting was warm and welcoming. Evangeline liked it. Although at times, she felt strange standing at the front door as carriages pulled up.

  “I do not recognize the emblem,” Adele called out from the second-story window. She peered out to the gates, with one hand over her eyes. “Not local.”

  Mariel looked up. “Come down here at once and stop gawking out the window like a village laundress.”

  Evangeline giggled and Mariel shook her head. “She should be in her own home. Why is she here?”

  “She wanted to spend time with the babe,” Ian replied.

  Everyone straightened as the carriages pulled into the courtyard. Then Evangeline grabbed Camren’s hand. “It’s my parents.” Her eyes rounded as she caught sight of her mother waving.

  Across from her mother in the other window, Rose peered out, her gaze taking in the large keep. Then she looked to Evangeline and blew a kiss.

  “This is amazing,” Rose exclaimed and threaded her arm around Evangeline’s. They walked through the garden to the slope where Camren had planned their picnic. Evangeline wanted to share the experience with her friend.

  “Magical, isn’t it?” Evangeline replied. “I had no idea. Camren never described his home to me. I suppose with everything that was happening, we never had the opportunity to discuss it. The grandeur of the house, if one could call it that, overwhelms me.”

  “I’d say it’s a castle,” Rose interjected. “You, my friend, live in a castle.”

  They continued on for a few steps, Evangeline sliding a look to a nearby field where Gideon, Camren and several men practiced with swords. She was sure it was Gideon’s idea, a way of showing off to Rose.

  “Have you and he spoken yet? I am sure he will try to convince you to stay longer.”

  A soft blush colored Rose’s cheek. “We have not been alone, no.” She looked to where the men were. “Do you really think he is attracted to me?”

  “Of course, he is. You should have seen how happy he was when finding out you came with my parents.

  “Perhaps we will speak. I wouldn’t mind staying with you a bit longer. I miss you terribly.”

  “I miss you, as well.” Evangeline sighed happily. For now, everything was perfect.

  “I am blessed that our parents are so compatible. Even now, the four went to visit Laird MacLachlan so father can see his horses.”

  “What of the other brother,” Rose asked. “Have you met the youngest yet?”

  Evangeline shook her head. “I like Ian and from what I hear, the youngest is the wildling of the three. He sails the seas and prefers the life of a nomad. His reputation of a privateer is bordering on that of a pirate. I do look forward to meeting him. Mariel says he comes home every summer and winter, so he should appear in the not too distant future.”

  “How romantic,” Rose said, pretending to swoon. A brooding pirate in the family.

  They continued their walk as Rose caught Evangeline up on what had happened back in London.

  Once they returned inside, they went directly to the kitchens and asked for a bite to eat and tea, which Rose brought from England.

  Chatting at a table in the great room, they were interrupted by a guard who entered and hesitated. “Lady Maclean, Mister Sutherland requested to speak to Miss Rose.”

  Evangeline smiled wide as Rose’s eyes rounded. “He does? Very well. Escort her to him.”

  “What are you smiling about?” Adele neared and lowered to sit opposite her.

  Camren’s sister was like her own now. In the short time she’d been there, they’d grown quite close. “Gideon requested to speak to Rose.”

  “No.” Adele jumped to her feet. “Why are we sitting here. Let’s go see what happens.” She grabbed Evangeline’s hand and they hurried to the front door.

  In the courtyard, near the gardens, they spotted Rose and Gideon. The large Scot towered over the petite Rose who reached for a red rose he held out for her.

  “Oh, my,” Adele whispered. “He is using her name to do something romantic.”

  Evangeline giggled. “What is he doing now?”

  After accepting the flower, Rose took his arm and they walked further into the garden.

  “I’d say,” Adele said while craning her neck to get a better view, “we will have another wedding soon.”

  “Do you think he’ll remain here?” Evangeline asked. “He owns a beautiful house in London. They may decide to live there.”

  The breeze blew across their faces and, for a moment, Evangeline inhaled the sweet smell from the garden’s blooms. “I hope Rose doesn’t demand to live in London. Although she is as close to her mother as I am to mine.”

  “Gideon will never leave Scotland. He is a Scot through and through.” Adele gave a firm nod to make her point. “If they marry, Rose will have to accept it.”

  “Who’s getting married?”

  They turned to find Evangeline’s mother and Mariel. Both peered past them to the garden.

  Adele placed a finger over her lips. “Don’t speak so loudly. Gideon and Rose are in there walking.”

  “Why are you spying?” Mariel asked, shaking her head. “Shame on you.” The entire time she searched the garden, her eyes darting past them.

  Evangeline’s mother giggled. “I knew there was a reason Rose insisted on coming.”

  “She is my dear friend, Mother,” Evangeline said. “What other reason would she have to insist on coming.”

  Her mother pointed to the garden. “It could be she wished to see a certain young man.”

  The four women went into the keep as it was getting time to prepare for last meal. Already clanspeople were gathering in the courtyard.

  Mariel motioned for them to hurry. “We must freshen up and change into something more appropriate because tonight we have visitors and people from the village come to welcome your parents, Evangeline.”

  Evangeline took her mother’s hand. “I wish you could stay here with me forever.”

  “Your father and I will visit regularly. His business is in London and I would never wish to be apart from him. Therefore, long visits will have to do.”

  They continued up the stairs and her mother pulled Evangeline to a stop. “Why aren’t you limping as much?”

  Evangeline shrugged. “I still limp, Mother.”

  “You walk differently though.” Her mother frowned. “Interesting.”

  Although Evangeline didn’t say anything, she knew why her gait was more concise. She was proud and happy and didn’t feel the need to try to overcorrect her steps. It turned out that in walking with assuredness, the limp was not as noticeable.

  Last meal was loud, crowded and delightful. Evangeline had never seen her parents more animated than that night.

  Her father obviously enjoyed the music, his head moving side to side and her mother sipped on honeyed mead, pronouncing it the best drink ever.

  Platters piled high with food were carried around the room as servants refilled plates.

  There was quail, goose and roasted boar on meat trays. Others carried trays with offerings of freshly roasted vegetables as well as breads and cheeses.

  Unlike in polite society, rules for serving were disregarded and everyone took and ate without waiting for others at their tables to be served.

  After the feasting, musicians played and people began dancing.

  Suddenly, guards rushed into the room. The music stopped and a hush fell over the room.

  Camren stood and stepped fro
m the high board. He hurried to the door, followed by Ian.

  Moments later, a tall, muscular, bearded man appeared. It had to be Cowan. Although the youngest of the brothers, he was broader. The brothers embraced, both Camren and Ian slapping the younger one’s back.

  Cowan stalked to the high board, his gaze on his mother. Then without preamble, he plucked her up and hugged her, turning in a circle. Adele was given the same treatment as everyone watched with smiles at the family reunion.

  Unlike Camren and Ian, Cowan had dark brown hair and eyes. His gaze fell upon her for a moment.

  He was a mixture of danger and sensuality. Evangeline understood why women would find him hard to resist. “Welcome to the family,” he stated in a deep, throaty voice. “I hope you are settled and not allowing my brother too much freedom.”

  Evangeline smiled at Cowan, liking him. “Thank you. I will ensure he remains within reach at all times.”

  Cowan chuckled.

  The music resumed.

  The youngest sat next to Ian. Several maids hurried over to serve him, giving Evangeline the impression that they hoped to gain his favor.

  Camren leaned to his brother. “We didn’t expect you so soon.”

  There was a slight pause and the brothers exchanged some sort of silent conversation.

  “I came to bring news. There was an unfortunate accident involving an Irish ship,” Cowan said with a shrug. “Everyone perished.”

  Evangeline turned to Camren. “Everyone?”

  “Did you not get my message, to spare…”

  Cowan held up a hand. “It wasn’t me.” He smiled at his mother to reassure her. “This is a conversation best left for after we eat.”

  It was late when Camren slipped into bed next to Evangeline. His hand immediately slipped under her nightgown, his fingers skimming over her skin and sending tingles of desire through her.

  Sliding closer, Evangeline lifted her face and accepted the whisky-tinged kiss.

  His lips pressed against hers and then trailed to her ear. “I want you so much.”

  “As do I,” Evangeline replied, only to gasp as his arousal touched her thigh.