Highland Belle

by Patricia Grasso

  Dugie cast a furtive glance at the cot. Brigettes naked glory was exposed to the world.

  Shes sleepin, Iain whispered, then grinned wickedly. I willna mention ye were here.

  When the door closed behind his man, Iain washed and dressed, then sat on the edge of the cot. Leaning over, he flicked his tongue across the nape of Brigettes neck. She tensed and rolled over, then smiled drowsily at her husband who was unable to resist nuzzling her breasts and licking their rosy nipples. Brigettes breath caught in a ragged gasp.

  Yer body could incite a monk to lust, Iain said, then chuckled throatily and added, Im certain the Pope would follow yer titties through the gates of hell.

  And you?

  Unfortunately, he answered, his thumb and forefinger tormenting a nipple, I must ignore them until this evenin. Dugies waitin for us. Iain chortled at her obvious disappointment. Theres clothin in that bag, and dinna dawdle over it. Weve a fair distance to travel today.

  Iain paused at the door to study the cot. How he would have enjoyed waking Brigette with an intimate jab! I believe, he announced, Ill purchase us a cot for Dunridge.

  Lighthearted, Iain fairly danced down the stairs into the common room. At once, he became aware of the chambers charged atmosphere. Dugie sat at one table while Bucko occupied another, and the two were glaring hostilely at each other.

  After casting his man a puzzled look, Iain joined Bucko. Thank ye for the excellent care yeve given my lassie.

  Humph. Bucko snorted.

  Is there a problem? Iain asked.

  Problem? Buckos fist crashed down on the table. Ya man got a little too bold with my woman last night!

  Aggravated, Iain glanced at Dugie, then back at Bucko. Would that be the blonde?

  No, the other.

  Ye dinna own her, Dugie insisted.

  Dugie made free wi yer wife?

  Well . . . Bucko cleared his throat. Randis not actually my wife yet.

  Yer betrothed?

  Ah, no.

  Och, mon! Iain exclaimed. Ye canna claim shes yers unless ye wed her.

  Im plannin ta marry her, Bucko declared emphatically, but the banns must be read.

  Nonsense! If ye want a bride today, yell have one. Are ye papist or no?

  No.

  Dugie, Iain called. Find a minister and bribe him to wed this mon to his lady wiout readin the banns. Dugie nodded and left smiling.

  At Iains suggestion, Bucko produced a flagon of whiskey. They raised their glasses in salute to their ladies.

  May yer intended give ye a brace of strong sons every couple of years, Iain toasted.

  The same ta ya, Bucko returned the tribute, then gulped his whiskey. I hate ta see Brie leave, he added. Her comely face and form helped the Roosters business.

  Iains expression soured, then he asked, Was that yer intended bangin on Bries door last night? Yed do well to wash her mouth wi strong soap.

  I couldnt stop her.

  Ye couldna stop her? Do ye intend to let the hen rule the Rooster, then?

  No, Bucko replied indignantly, but added a trifle sheepishly, but there are times when Randi cannot be stopped.

  Iain patted Buckos shoulder in masculine camaraderie. Ye must be firm wi the lassies, friend, or theyll trample ye beneath their pretty feet. An occasional spankin — no too severe, mind ye — does wonders for husbandly discipline.

  Is that so? How is it ya own wife ran away?

  Iains eyes darkened. It was a misunderstandin, no that its any of yer business. She thought Id been nestlin between anothers thighs.

  As Bucko opened his mouth to comment, the taverns door opened. Dugie entered with a minister. In the next instant, Brigette and Marianne walked downstairs.

  Surprised by the ministers presence, Marianne turned to Bucko. What the bloody — ?

  Keep ya mouth shut, he ordered gruffly, but in a kinder voice added, The ministers come ta marry us. Be ya willin or no? Mariannes mouth dropped in shock.

  Shes willing, Brigette answered for her friend.

  Witnessed by the MacArthurs, Bucko and Marianne were united in holy matrimony. His pockets jingling with Iains coins, the minister left immediately following the ceremony. The two couples, plus Dugie and Bertie, sat down to an impromptu wedding feast.

  Where the hell have ya been all night, Lil? Bucko said as the blonde flounced into the tavern. Pull up a chair and join us.

  Whatre ya celebratin? she sneered. Bries departure?

  Mariannes smile was triumphant. Bucko and me was just wed proper by a minister.

  Oh, crap! Lil halted in her tracks, then turned around and left the tavern.

  Ill roast her good, Marianne said to Brigette. Shell pay for every insult she gave ya.

  Yall do nothin without my permission, Bucko ordered. Marianne began to wonder into what shed gotten herself.

  I canna thank ye both enough for guardin my lassie. Iain broke the ensuing silence.

  It was a difficult task, Marianne remarked, especially keepin fat Berties hands off her.

  Bertie gulped nervously when Iains formidable gaze rested on him. Ill be in the kitchen preparin tonights stew, he said, making a hasty retreat.

  Bucko chuckled. The Roosters closin for today.

  What? Marianne asked. Bucko ignored her.

  Bucko lad, Iain said, rising from his seat, we must be on our way. He produced a hefty bag of coins and added, This is for my wifes upkeep and a weddin present of sorts.

  I want no reward for guardin such a sweet angel, the tavernkeeper insisted. Marryin Randi is reward enough.

  Silence, Marianne hissed, then looked at Iain and added, If you please, my lord. She rounded on her husband. The Roosters openin today — think of the money well lose!

  Moneys not the most important thin in life, honey, Bucko chided.

  And what, may I ask, is more important?

  Creatin a dozen healthy sons ta help us run the Rooster.

  Marianne opened her mouth to protest, but Bucko pulled her into his arms and kissed her until she was limp and dazed. The tavernkeeper glanced at Iain, who nodded supportively.

  Brigette eyed her husband, aware that the sudden change in Buckos temperament coincided with his arrival. As if privy to her thoughts, Iain grinned wickedly. Say yer farewells, hinny.

  I cant thank you enough, Brigette said, hugging Marianne. If youre ever in need, come to Dunridge.

  I will. Marianne peeked at Iain. If he doesnt treat ya like he should, yave always got a home at the Rooster.

  12

  Brie. The husky, masculine voice floated through her mind like a sigh on a gentle breeze. Huddled against her husbands chest, Brigette murmured unintelligibly in her sleep.

  Weve arrived, Iain whispered. Shall I carry ye inside?

  Arrived? Brigettes eyes flew open and she sat up.

  I canna believe yeve slept the length of Edinburgh. Campbell Mansion is ahead of us.

  Inside the courtyard, Iain dismounted and lifted Brigette from the horse. She yawned and stretched in the most unladylike fashion, then took his arm. They turned toward the mansion.

  Brigette MacBria, a familiar voice called. Wearing his most charming smile, Magnus was hurrying toward them.

  Magnus! Brigette came to life. Releasing her husbands arm, she ran to Magnus, who laughed and hugged her. When he kissed her full on her lips, Iain frowned and wondered for the hundredth time what their accommodations had been along the road to London.

  Im glad yeve come to visit, Magnus said, shaking Iains hand. Come inside.

  He led them into the great hall and the three sat in front of the hearth. A servant brought them wine.

  I didna think yed accept my invitation, Magnus remarked.

  Some time ago I offered Brie a trip to Edinburgh, Iain said. Yer invitation was propitious.

  Iain promised me a shopping spree, Brigette interjected, her eyes sparkling with mischief. My husband always keeps his promises — unlike others I know.

  Im verra sorry I couldna keep my silence,
Magnus apologized, an unrepentant grin appearing on his face. When yer husbands bein thwarted, hes prone to violence. Besides, everythins worked out for the best, did it no?

  Yes. A rosy blush stained Brigettes pale cheeks.

  Greetins to the future Earl and Countess of Dunridge, a voice sounded behind them. Startled, Iain and Brigette whirled around.

  What the hell are ye doin here? Iain snapped at his brother.

  Percy grinned. I couldna let ye have all the fun. Ive a yearnin to attend the court and meet our bonnie queen.

  Ye couldna properly take charge of Dunridge for a fortnight, Iain said. Are ye so intent, then, on bringin misfortune down on our family?

  It wasnt his fault I ran away. Brigette smiled sheepishly at her brother-in-law. Will you forgive me for causing so much trouble?

  Ill forgive ye if ye swear never to do it again — at least while Im in charge.

  I swear.

  Damn it, Brigette, Iain snapped. Ye apologize to Percy but ye havena apologized to me!

  Ive done nothing to you for which I should apologize.

  Yeve done nothin?

  Brigette smiled sweetly. You were the one kissing Antonia, not me.

  I wasna kissin Antonia.

  Pardon me, she returned haughtily. Antonia was kissing you. Percy and Magnus burst out laughing, earning themselves a censorious glare from Iain.

  Menzies is at court, Percy informed his brother. Hes been politickin the queen against us.

  Yes, Magnus confirmed. There are many unfamiliar faces gracin Holyrood Palace these days.

  Such as? Iain asked.

  The Earl of Lennox and his son Lord Darnley recently arrived from London. Darnley has captured the queens eye.

  What sort of mon is he?

  Nae mon at all, I fear, Magnus said, and Im regrettin the part I played in extendin the invitation. Hes fair enough on the outside, almost too fair. Shallow, ye might say. He willna make the queen a good husband, nor will he be good for Scotland, especially we Highlanders.

  Is she so enchanted wi him, then?

  She believes herself in love wi him. At that, they lapsed into thoughtful silence.

  Women are stubborn creatures, Iain commented finally, and a woman in love is doubly so. Hopefully, Darnley will ruin himself wiout our help. He turned to Brigette. Yell need a suitable gown to wear at court.

  Im to accompany you? Brigette asked, pleasantly surprised. And meet the queen?

  Of course, lovey, what did ye think?

  When will we attend?

  As soon as weve purchased the proper attire, sweetie.

  Im too tired to shop today, Brigette said, yawning. Id love a hot tub and soft bed.

  Aggie will see ye to yer chamber, Magnus said. After the housekeeper escorted Brigette out of the hall, he turned to Iain. Brie doesna look well. Her skin has lost its healthy bloom.

  She has purple smudges underneath her eyes, Percy added.

  Yes, Ive noticed, Iain agreed. Bries a fragile thin. Travelin and toilin have weakened her delicate constitution.

  Toilin?

  When she left Dunridge, Brie didna return to Basildon, Iain told his brother.

  She found employment in London, Magnus piped in, at the Royal Rooster Tavern.

  A tavern! Percy shouted with laughter and Magnus joined him. Iain scowled blackly. He failed to see the humor in a countess posing as a tavern wench, especially when the countess was his wife.

  Iain opened his eyes. With her face pressed into his chest, Brigette was snuggled against him. One of her legs was entwined between his muscular thighs.

  His calloused hand slowly slid down the length of her spine, ending in a gentle caress to her buttocks. Brigette stirred but did not awaken. Gingerly, he shifted her onto her back and lowered his dark head to her breast. His tongue teased one of her nipples to aroused attention.

  Mmmmm. A murmur of pleasure escaped Brigette. She reached up to press his head tighter against her breast.

  Take me, she breathed, arching with desire.

  Drawing back, Iains smile was pure love. He spread her thighs, then firmly grasped and lifted her hips. Forcefully, he thrust forward, and Brigette gasped.

  Oh, no! Dismayed frustration followed burning arousal at the sound of the door opening to admit the Campbell servants.

  Iain quickly pulled out, whispering, Until tonight, lovey.

  The bedcurtain was drawn aside by a young maid holding a tray of food. Her face reddened with embarrassment when she realized they were naked. Excuse m-me, m-my lord, she stammered. Lord M-Magnus b-bade us see to yer needs. He thought yed like to breakfast in bed while yer ladys bath is prepared.

  They sat up. Brigette tucked the coverlet beneath her arms, leaving only her smooth shoulders and the top of the tantalizing valley between her breasts exposed. She peered at the tray on her husbands lap.

  Ill have that milk, she said as the maids began preparing the bath in front of the hearth.

  Iain cocked a brow at her. I thought ye didna care for milk?

  I dont, but I have a mind to drink it today.

  Here. Iain handed her the mug. Eat somethin.

  I think not. My appetites still sleeping.

  Eat this, he ordered, passing her a piece of buttered bread, and dinna give me any trouble aboot it. Ye slept through supper last night and yer bones are beginnin to show. Im surprised I amna bruised from them pokin me while we sleep.

  Very funny. Brigette ate the bread.

  When the bath was ready, Brigette rose from the bed. With seductively swaying hips, she sauntered across the chamber, and Iain admired the delicate column of her back, her delectably rounded buttocks calling out to him to be fondled.

  Before stepping into the tub, Brigette cast him a blatantly flirtatious look, and Iain roared with laughter. Enthralled by his wife at her toilet, he set the breakfast tray aside and relaxed against the pillows to watch.

  While a maid scrubbed her back, Brigette washed one of her legs, raising its shapely length in the air so her husband could view it. The other was boldly exhibited in the same manner, and Iain felt his desire growing.

  Brigette slowly lathered her breasts and massaged them, then rinsed. She glanced sidelong at Iain and smiled inwardly. Her husband was mesmerized by a pair of titties.

  In dripping magnificence, Brigette rose from the tub. The maid patted her dry and enfolded her in a fresh towel, then plaited her coppery tresses into one long braid.

  You may leave, Brigette dismissed the maid when Iain started to rise, naked, from the bed. With a horrified squeak, the maid hurried out.

  May I assist you, my lord? Brigette offered.

  Sinking into the tub, Iain grinned wolfishly. I canna think of anythin Id desire more.

  First, Brigette lathered and soothingly massaged his back, marveling at its broad expanse and the powerful muscles relaxing beneath her hands. After rinsing it, she moved around to his front, and Iain chuckled at the look of anticipation on his wifes face. Brigette lathered his chest, then glided the tips of her fingers seductively across his nipples, which hardened with her teasing. Her hand slid down his rib cage, past his suddenly quivering stomach, and found the masculine appendage nestled at his groin.

  Ahhh. Iains breath caught raggedly in his throat when her fingers began taunting his engorged manhood.

  Shopping or bed? she whispered. The choice is yours.

  Why no both?

  A wise choice. She covered his lips with her own, forced them apart and plundered his mouth with her sweet kittens tongue.

  Iain shuddered. He stood and stepped out of the tub, intending to carry her back to bed.

  Bang! The chamber door crashed open.

  What a provocative picture, Magnus remarked at their lack of clothing.

  Brigette giggled and blushed with embarrassment. Exasperated, Iain scowled, then asked, Is there nae privacy in this house?

  Apparently not. Sorry. Magnus spoiled his apology by grinning. My coach is at yer disposal — if yeve a mind
to leave this chamber today.

  Thinking they would be disturbed again if they tarried, Iain and Brigette reluctantly dressed and headed for the courtyard. To the High Street, Iain instructed the Campbell coachmen.

  In the Upper Bow, Brigette purchased several gowns suitable for court. Aware that the men at court dressed as Low-landers, Iain bought a dark blue suit in the English mode. Passing a goldsmith shop, he insisted on splurging and purchased several pieces of jewelry to complement Brigettes new gowns. Except for her wedding band, it was the first costly gift hed given her, and Brigette was ecstatic.

  In the Lawnmarket, Brigette bought various fabrics, which she intended to share with Spring. With very little effort, she persuaded Iain to purchase a doll for Glenda, and at the leather craftsmans she wheedled him into buying Sly a new yellow collar.

  The furniture makers was their final stop of the morning. Iain ordered a cot, of all things, crafted from the finest oak. Puzzled, Brigette asked him about it, but Iain only smiled and said it was a surprise.

  Where to? Brigette asked wearily.

  Has yer appetite awakened?

  Im famished.

  The MacArthurs were soon seated inside MacDonalds Tavern on Princes Street. They stuffed themselves with scones dipped in honey, boiled mussels and clams seasoned with herbs, and fruit tarts dressed with nuts and spices. To wash the meal down, there were ale for Iain and cider for Brigette.

  Ye arena eatin, he said, chuckling at his wifes miraculously recovered appetite. Yer feedin.

  I dont want to injure you while were sleeping, she returned, unamused by his humor.

  At meals end, Iain tossed several coins on the table and stood. Then he helped Brigette rise from her chair.

  Are we bankrupt? she asked.

  Probably. Keepin a wife is more expensive than I realized.

  But worth every gold piece?

  And then some. Iain steered Brigette through the crowded tavern.

  As they reached the door, it flew open unexpectedly. Blocking their path were two expensively dressed men. Brigette sensed Iain tense and looked closely at them.

  One was of an age with Iain, just as tall but heavier. Marring his face was a long, angular scar running the length of one cheek. His eyes were dark, cold, menacing.