Highland Salvation (Highland Pride)

by Lori Ann Bailey

“Nae,” his hoarse reply cut her off. Heart sinking at her best hope for a bearable future, she nodded and made to rise.

  This time, his hand shot out, clasping onto her wrist. The warm touch was gentle but firm, a soothing caress which promised understanding and compassion, nothing like the way she had felt in Henry’s arms when he’d pulled her to his room. “I mean, aye. I will still have ye.”

  A breath of air reached her lungs.

  “I ken ye also believed ye would spend yer life with the man. I will never hold that or anything that comes from yer association with Henry against ye. Yer past willnae dictate how our future should be lived.” His gaze penetrated into a part of her that wanted to believe his words. “I would be honored to have ye as my wife.”

  Relief flooded her senses. The pressure that had been building on her chest, threatening to suffocate her, eased as a tide of warmth rolled over her like a gentle breeze. She breathed a long, liberating breath. She wouldn’t be beholden to a man of deceit or one with a brutal nature or to a Covenanter.

  Hoping to let the sincerity in her heart show in the words, she focused on his eyes. “And I promise to be a dutiful wife, one ye can rely on, and someone ye will be proud to have at yer side.”

  He raised her hand, his regard not leaving her, as his lips brushed her bare skin. The touch was light, intimate, and promised he would cherish her. A peace washed through her, one she’d never experienced at another man’s touch.

  Finlay was the right choice.

  Smiling, she eased back into her seat, Finlay’s hand staying firm in hers as she lowered it to her lap. She felt the surge of happiness, thinking their clasped hands signified the seal of their agreement. Her eyes drifted down, and for the first time, she noticed how full his lips were, a light red, like slightly watered wine. She’d only ever kissed Henry, but somehow she knew things would be different with the man who was now to become her husband.

  Satisfied, she called out, “John.”

  Her brother strolled back into the room, satisfaction plastered on his smug features. Had he been watching them?

  “Do ye have a decision?”

  “Aye, if father is agreeable, we will wed.”

  “I’ll speak to him now.”

  Finlay rose. “I will come as well.” He looked at her. “Excuse me. I think ’tis important I make the offer.” A smile spread across his lips, then he added, “Only pack what ye need for a couple of days. I will send for the rest. I apologize for the swift departure, but I have urgent business to see to.”

  Nodding, she rose and followed the two men from the hall. Normally, she would protest the hasty departure, but there was a man in the village who would be back for her all too soon if she did not escape. It was best if she was well on her way to being wed before Bruce could collect on his demand. Once she was married, her biggest problem would be whether or not she could persuade her new husband that she was worthy of helping him run his house.

  Later that afternoon, as the warm rays of the midday sun showered her skin with hope, she found herself riding next to her mother, who had insisted on coming along as a chaperone for the journey. Her mother, more likely than not, only wanted the chance to see Elspeth Cameron, the Cameron laird’s mother. They had formed a friendship akin to Kirstie’s and hers over the years.

  Shortly after she’d left the hall this morning, John had hurried into her room to say her father approved, and they would be off within the hour. With the Macnab laird’s failing health, he would not be able to make the trip with them. Her father was probably pleased to be rid of her so easily. She wished she’d been able to hear the conversation that had decided her fate.

  Apprehension creeping in, she wished she’d asked Finlay why he was in such a hurry. She was prevented from seeking answers because John dominated his attentions, and the guards sent by her father kept her sequestered away from her betrothed. It was as if her father was trying to ensure her honor during the journey.

  She was pleased to be going to the Cameron lands; not only would she be with Royalists, but she prayed Kirstie would be there. Surely she was safe and back at Kentillie by now. It was another reason she didn’t argue with leaving for Finlay’s home straight away.

  Peace finally returned at the thought of the prospects ahead. Until they passed by the Duck’s Head Tavern, and a disheveled man stepped out through the front door of the nearby stables, glaring at her as if he intended to charge up and stop their procession.

  Bruce.

  Chapter Four

  The sun had dipped low in the sky, and despite the hour, Finlay appreciated that it still illuminated the clear Highland sky with a subtle light that would continue deep into the evening hours. The surrounding mountains were dotted with purple and blue hues that blew in the slightly chilled wind. The familiar sight made his heart sing. The pressures of the journey eased, just as it did every time he came home from England. Forgoing his own cottage near the edge of the village, he steered the group toward Kentillie, the Cameron seat and stronghold.

  As they passed through the stone gates and walls and into the fortified courtyard of the castle, peace enveloped him. He’d been looking over his shoulder most of the trip because he’d felt like they were being followed. There was comfort in knowing he was now surrounded by men he trusted.

  He turned to Blair. Her back was straight, a slight smile on her face as she glanced from side to side taking in the magnificence of the castle’s stoic beauty. She was lovely. And he was happy to see she was pleased with the Cameron stronghold.

  He’d wished for time to woo her before the wedding, but they had moved swiftly on the journey here, and the Macnab men had kept her well guarded and out of his reach. He wondered if her father didn’t trust the Camerons.

  From her alert, inquisitive scrutiny, Finlay could tell she had never been here. He found that odd, considering her friendship with Kirstie. Thinking back, the only time he’d seen Blair off Macnab lands had been their recent trip to Edinburgh. She had obviously been kept close to home most of her life.

  How would she do on a journey to England, and then upon her arrival with all the gaggle of English servants and family demanding they follow silly protocols and English ways? A stab of guilt knifed into his side at the knowledge he would be throwing her in with the wolves and vipers on that journey.

  With the Macnab warriors keeping them apart, he’d not had the time to tell her about the situation at his estate, and he wondered how much she knew of him and of his birth. Would she reject him once she learned?

  He’d been just about to tell her of his double life, when she’d called John back to seek her father’s approval. His moment was gone.

  Anyway, he was marrying her to protect her and the babe. No matter what she thought of his difficult family situation, he hoped she would see that.

  Now, it was too late. There would be no going back without hurting both his honor and hers. Besides, over the past few days, she’d looked miserable astride the horse she rode, sometimes looking green or as if she was in pain. She needed a father for her child, whether she knew it yet or not.

  Unease washed over him as they made their way to the stables and started to dismount. He’d left directly from the battle in Edinburgh, and while he knew Lachlan and Malcolm had survived with no injuries, he was unsure of the fate of his friend Alan and the laird’s sister, Blair’s friend, Kirstie.

  There was little activity around the castle, and he assumed most of the inhabitants were inside taking the evening meal. Stomach rumbling at the thought, he handed his steed off to a stable boy and strolled over to help Blair down from her horse.

  Her dainty hands clasped tightly onto his shoulders as if clinging to him in an embrace. Although the touch was innocent, awareness shot through his chest and straight into his cock. He’d always found her attractive, but he never thought such a small gesture would affect him so. His need to be with her must be in anticipation of their wedding night. It wasn’t the time to let his desire be known, so he p
ushed it aside.

  “Kirstie should be here.” Without removing her hands, Blair’s sapphire stare locked on his, and he realized she was trembling, expecting her friend to be in the stables where she loved tending to the animals.

  He wanted to wipe the worry from her eyes. “We’ll ken shortly where she is.”

  Blair turned away, staring at the stables as the boys took the horses inside, looking for her friend to walk through the door and out into the open at any moment.

  “Come.”

  Her hands fell from his shoulder, but he found himself reaching out for the one, entwining his fingers with hers. She didn’t pull away. Either testament to the worry over her friend or acknowledgement he would soon be her husband.

  He wanted to get to know her after days of seeing her but being kept apart. He guessed the Macnab men only backed away now because they’d made it here safely and John had captured their attention. Finlay seized the opportunity to guide her toward the castle and away from her guards. “Have ye ever been to Kentillie?”

  As they stepped out into the open, she glanced around, appearing to take in everything. “Nae. My father didnae allow me to come.”

  “Then how did ye and Kirstie meet?”

  “Och, we were wee things the first time she came to my home. Riding through our gate like a phantom chasing its prey. She made me think of far off places I’d never seen, and I was mesmerized by her right away.”

  “Sounds like her.” The smile that breached his face came from down deep. He loved the Camerons and his clan, but it was the bit of nostalgia over Kirstie’s exploits with the horses that warmed his heart.

  “She continued to visit over the years, and we developed a strong friendship. She was like the sister I’d never had.”

  As their steps took them closer to the large gray fortress, he could feel the tension leaving her body as she spoke of her friend, admiration glowing in her gaze. He hoped one day she would hold him in such high esteem.

  He released her hand and opened the large wooden doors to escort her into the great hall. Blair took in everything. And he wondered how was it that the most beautiful lass in Scotland was about to marry a bastard like himself.

  Pushing away the doubts as they strolled into the cavernous room, he was pleased to see he’d been accurate—a large group of Camerons was gathered at the table. Kirstie and Alan were among them.

  Alan waved at them. “Look who finally made it home.”

  Kirstie glanced up and saw the woman by Finlay’s side. She let out an audible squeak then jumped up and ran for them.

  “Ye are all right,” Blair said, but it sounded more like a question as his laird’s sister wrapped her arms around Blair, pulling her in. He was happy to see the joyous reunion and to know his friends were unharmed.

  Alan appeared by his side, clapping him on the shoulder and drawing him in for a quick embrace. “Glad to see ye, friend.”

  “’Tis good to see ye as well and that ye found Kirstie. Was she unharmed?”

  “Aye. I’ll tell ye the story later, but for now, come sit and join us for the meal.”

  Nodding, Finlay caught a glimpse of movement behind him and realized the rest of their party had joined them.

  “John, Sara, come join us. We are celebrating our marriage.” Alan reached out, taking Kirstie’s hand and pulling her back to his side as if he couldn’t stand to be without her for a moment.

  “’Tis happy tidings,” Finlay said.

  Blair burst into excited chatter as she took her friend’s free hand and bounced with delight, showing that zest for life he appreciated in her.

  He was pleased to see Lachlan, the leader of the Cameron clan, next to Maggie, who held their newborn son close to her chest. Scanning the rest of the table, he noticed the priest, who was thankfully in residence. He’d apparently already presided over Kirstie’s and Alan’s wedding. All Finlay had to do now was ensure he had his laird’s permission and wed the lass.

  They could be on their way tomorrow.

  Moving toward the table, he approached his laird, nodded at Maggie, smiled at the little one, then glanced back to Lachlan. “May I have a few minutes to speak with ye in private?”

  Lachlan stood and led the way out of the room, down a short hall, and into his study. As the door shut behind him, it clicked into place.

  “I would like to wed Blair Macnab. I have already spoken to the Macnab laird and have his blessing for the union. I seek yers as well.” The words came out in a rush, partly because King Charles needed the information he possessed as soon as possible to defend himself. But also because now that he was here, he was afraid Lachlan might somehow have an objection.

  “’Twould be a good match. I’m assuming since he is here, we have the approval of the Macnab heir as well.” It was widely assumed that an alliance with John was of more importance than that of his rapidly deteriorating father.

  “Aye. He suggested it.”

  “Ye have my blessing. I ken no better man to win the love of such a lovely lass.”

  He didn’t know her heart, and she most assuredly didn’t love him.

  “Thank ye.” Bowing his head, he smiled with relief then turned a straight face back to his laird. “Since the priest is here, can we wed now? I have delayed a trip to England for too long. I must get word to the king on the Solemn League and Covenant. Besides the ones we already discovered, Blair’s father has decided to sign it. I have to warn him to expect resistance from the Highlanders who will be joining the war in England.”

  Lachlan nodded, a sad look crossing his eyes. “I agree. ’Tis better he kens sooner. When will ye leave?”

  “If we can be wed tonight, we shall go first thing in the morning.”

  “Does Blair ken yer plans?”

  “She kens we will be going to England, but I dinnae wish to tell her the rest until I ken for certain she will be loyal to our cause.”

  “I agree. With her father as an example, we can only hope that her brother has had more influence.” Lachlan rubbed his chin.

  “I have faith in her, just not her father.”

  Lachlan nodded then straightened his shoulders. “I have a request.”

  “Aye.”

  “Take Robbie with ye. He has some business to take care of. I’ll send some guards as well.”

  Why would Lachlan send the boy with him? Robbie was practically walking into a war zone. The Cameron laird and Alan had taken a liking to the lad after rescuing him almost a year earlier and rarely let Robbie out of their sight.

  He would have a wife to think of in the morning, too. Although he was confident in his abilities to keep her safe on the journey, having extra Cameron men with him would be welcome.

  “Aye.”

  “Ye must protect the lad with yer life. I cannae tell ye more, but I’m trusting him with ye.”

  “Where should I take him?” He’d grown to like the lad himself, but Robbie was secretive, and there was something too familiar about him. Maybe Robbie reminded him of the lads he went to school with in England—not his attitude, but his education was similar to that of the English peerage he’d been forced to endure.

  Maybe he was overthinking it. The boy was being raised by priests; maybe his education was to prepare him for a life in service to God. But why had he spied Lachlan training him late one evening in a secluded area near the base of Ben Nevis?

  “He’ll let ye ken when the need arises.”

  He had more questions about the lad than he had answers, but he had other concerns right now.

  “Can they all be ready to leave in the morning?”

  “I can arrange it. Robbie and some guards will be at yer house at daybreak.”

  “Guards are a good idea. They should travel light, so we can make good time.” Finlay liked the idea of having strong, capable Cameron men on the journey with them. He’d have them on alert as well, to be certain they weren’t being trailed.

  Lachlan nodded.

  “All right then. Let’s fi
nish the evening meal and see to another wedding.” His laird clapped him on the back then started for the door.

  Finlay trailed behind him, wondering again what would prompt his laird to send a boy raised by priests to a country torn apart by civil war.

  But that thought fled as they entered the great hall and he saw Blair’s radiant face while she laughed at something Kirstie whispered. Her gaze met his, and she smiled at him, reminding him that he was about to become a married man and would be taking her to his cottage tonight.

  …

  Blair sat stunned as she heard the tale of how Alan had saved Kirstie and the harrowing events her friend had been through. A blessed peace washed over her as she reveled in her friend’s happiness and met many new Camerons who welcomed her as if she were long-lost kin.

  She was happy to see Brodie, the laird’s cousin and frequent visitor to the Macnab lands, with a wife, Skye. The woman had a slightly rounded belly and wore the same glow on her face when she looked upon her husband that Kirstie did when she smiled at Alan.

  Sara chatted away with Elspeth, seemingly as happy as the rest. It was a side of her mother that she only showed when her father was nowhere about. It soothed her when she saw her mother was more than the weak, doting wife Sara portrayed to her father.

  It dawned on her that she’d been able to accomplish the things she had because her mother encouraged her. She hadn’t realized her mother’s enthusiasm had been squashed by her father’s belief that the place for a woman was at a man’s feet or in the bedchamber. She questioned if her father even knew it was she who had been running the Macnab castle for years.

  Movement from the corner of the hall caught her attention as Finlay strolled back into the room with the Cameron laird, who had a wide grin spreading across his face. As they moved closer to the table she guessed he had approved. Lachlan scooped up a trencher and a spoon, banging them against each other to gain the attention of all those gathered.

  “Father Fergus. Would ye do us the honor of wedding this Cameron man to this lovely Macnab lass here?” The laird waved his hand toward her.