Fraser 03 - Highland Homecoming

by B. J. Scott

  “It appears neither of us will be entering into this marriage of our own accord.” She paused and pressed her finger to the side of her nose. “Mayhap if the lass were here, Duncan may find the courage tae challenge his father’s decision.”

  “What are you suggesting, m’lady?”

  “I must find someone I can trust tae ride tae the Clan Mackenzie’s stronghold and convince the lass tae come afore the wedding takes place. Surely if Duncan loves her, he will fight for her hand and free me of my burden.”

  “It might work, but is there time?” Helen asked. “I could ask William tae go.”

  “Do you think he’d be willing tae help me?”

  “If I ask him tae do it, I’m sure he will. He has a difficult time refusing me.” A blush rose in Helen’s cheeks. “If you wish, I can go and ask him now. The sooner he leaves the better.”

  A knock on the door caused them both to turn. Jayden strolled into the chamber. “I thought you’d want tae know. A messenger arrived a few minutes ago from the Sutherland Clan. Duncan is expected tae arrive on the morrow.”

  Edina’s heart sank. Time was running out. She turned to face Helen. “Could you see tae that matter we were discussing?”

  Helen nodded. “Aye. I will take care of it right away.” She turned and scurried down the hall.

  “Please make haste,” she called after the maid.

  “Are you all right?” Jayden slid his hand over Edina’s shoulder. “You were verra upset with me earlier, and I canna say that I blame you.”

  “I’ll be fine,” Edina replied softly.

  “I wish there was something I could do tae get Da tae reconsider, but he is certain this marriage will benefit the clan and has given his word.”

  Edina moved to a small casement window and peered into the bailey. “I believe the Almighty has a plan for me and He will decide my fate,” she replied.

  “Please say yes, William,” she muttered under her breath as she watched Helen race across the bailey toward the cobbler’s wattle and daub hut.

  Chapter 16

  A rap on the door awakened Edina from a fitful sleep. Was it morning already? She felt as though her head had just touched the pillow. She opened heavy-lidded eyes and glanced around the room. Rays of sunlight slipped through the cracks around the shutters, heralding a new day. The dreaded day she’d meet her betrothed and her life would be changed forever.

  It wasn’t too late to run. If she slipped out while many of the clan still slept and the men who were up and about were busy training in the lists, she could be miles away before anyone knew she was missing.

  But where would she go? Alasdair was right. Her father would find her and bring her back to marry Duncan. Known for her temerity, she was not one to give up easily, but honestly saw no options but to comply with her father’s demands.

  Another knock, a little louder than the first, caught her attention. “Who is it?”

  “Helen. I’ve come tae help you dress. May I enter your chamber?”

  Edina sat up and stretched. “Aye, come in.”

  The door swung open with a loud creak when the maid entered. She carried a basin of water across the room, placed it on a small table by the window, then opened the shutters, and peered into the bailey. “It is going tae be a bonny day. I thought you might like tae freshen up afore you join your father in the great hall tae break your fast.”

  “I dinna wish tae get up. Ever.” Edina flopped back on the mattress and covered her eyes with her forearm. “I am not ready for this day tae start. There is naught to look forward to, only heartache.”

  Thoughts of Alasdair flooded her mind, the taste of his kisses, the possibility of a brighter future . . . had he felt the same way about her as she did him. But he’d made it clear he had no intent of complicating his life with a wife and bairns. He planned to rejoin the Bruce and she’d never see him again.

  “You’re wrong, m’lady. Everyday we live is a blessing. The Almighty doesna give us more tae bear than we can handle.” Helen smiled and moved toward the bed.

  “If only that were true.” Edina bowed her head and wrung her hands. “I have to face Callum today and I canna stand the sight of him. But I must be present when my father passes judgment and determines his fate. While the blackguard deserves tae be punished, it willna be an easy task for Da tae determine his fate. They have been friends for many years and he was verra disappointed tae learn he had been betrayed by Callum.”

  Edina stood and joined Helen by the window. “Once that unsavory chore is done, I will spend the rest of my day waiting on tender hooks for Duncan tae arrive. Mayhap he will be delayed, or not come at all. One can only hope.”

  Helen’s expression sobered. “You dinna hear? I was certain someone would have told you.”

  “Told me what?” Edina asked. “I havena spoken tae anyone since Jayden left my chamber late last night.” Helen definitely had piqued her curiosity.

  “Callum is dead, m’lady,” the maid blurted out.

  “Dead? Are you certain, Helen?” Edina could not believe her ears.

  “Aye. Apparently, he pretended he was ill, and attacked his guard when the sentry went to check on him. Laid the poor man’s head open with a wooden stool, he did, then made his escape.”

  “If he got away, how do you know he’s dead?” Edina’s heart began to race. She remembered the look of pure evil on Callum’s face when she told her father what had happened on the ship. His threats to get even if she betrayed him were foremost in her mind. Would he make good on those threats?

  “Several of your da’s men gave chase. They followed him ontae the cliffs and in his haste, Callum lost his footing and plunged to his death.” Helen crossed herself and muttered a prayer.

  “Did anyone see the body?” Edina needed to be certain.

  “Nay. It was verra dark, but the men tracking him said there was no way he could have survived such a fall. They will search for him today, but fear his remains have been washed out tae sea. In my opinion it was a fitting end after what he tried tae do tae you.”

  Relief washed over Edina and she released the breath she’d been holding. “That may be, but it is a horrible way tae die.”

  “And you think death by hanging is what he would have preferred?” Helen asked.

  “What Callum did tae me and the duplicity is inexcusable, but I dinna believe my father would have sentenced him tae hang. He more than likely would have banished him, the humiliation and alienation from the clan being a fate worse than death.”

  “It matters not. The scoundrel is dead, and I say good riddance.” Helen retrieved a kirtle, gown, and slippers from a shelf by the door. “Once you’ve washed up, you’d best be getting dressed. Your da and brother are waiting for you. And I am sure lord Alasdair will be there as well.” A grin tugged at her lips.

  “I care not where Alasdair Fraser is or what he is doing.” Edina lied. “He can take up residence with the devil for all I care.”

  Helen’s eyes widened. “Och, you shouldna say such things. I dinna mean tae upset you. I thought—”

  “Well you thought wrong. What Alasdair does from here on is none of my concern.” She tugged the kirtle over her head and the gown followed.

  “Forgive me. I suppose if you are getting married, thinking about another man wouldna be prudent.” Helen lowered her gaze and began to wring her hands.

  Again remorse for overreacting and taking her frustration out on Helen seized Edina’s gut. “You have naught tae be sorry for, but beating this dead horse willna help. My only hope is that Duncan doesna want this union any more than I do, or that William can convince Duncan’s cousin tae come afore the wedding.”

  “He left as soon as I bid him go. I hope he makes it in time,” Helen replied then crossed herself again. “The Almighty willing he will be successful in his quest.”

  “I hope you’re right, Helen. I hope you’re right.

  “Did you spend the entire night here?”

  Alasdair struggled to
open eyes that felt like anvils. He groaned aloud. “Leave me be, Jayden. Where I slept matters naught.” Why had his friend disturbed him? It had taken him all night to finally fall asleep.

  “I dinna care where you slept, but it is time tae break our fast and you are sprawled out in my father’s chair. I expect him tae arrive any minute.” Jayden picked up an empty jug from the floor and place it on the trestle table beside another. “It appears you dinna spend the night entirely alone. You finished off one flagon of whisky, and nearly emptied another. I would imagine you must feel like you’ve been dragged behind a herd of wild horses.” He laughed.

  Alasdair found no humor in his friend’s comments and wished he would lower his voice. Better yet, he wished Jayden would leave. “I can hold my spirits and feel fine,” he lied. In truth, his stomach roiled, his head was about to burst, and his mouth tasted like he’d been chewing on dry wood.

  “Well if you ask me, you look a might green about the gills. My father will be here soon and Edina will be joining us. What will she think if she sees you are well in your cups at this hour of the day?”

  Alasdair belched and spat on the floor. If possible, his mood soured even more than it was already. “No one asked you. I dinna care what she thinks. Once Duncan Sutherland arrives she will be busy planning her wedding.”

  “Say what you want, but I know differently. You’re smitten with my sister, so there is no point denying it.”

  “I’m not smitten with anyone. Besides, she is spoken for and her marriage to Sutherland will benefit both your clans,” Alasdair snapped. Were his true feelings for Edina that obvious?

  “You look at her like a lovesick hound whenever she is around. I know she is promised tae Duncan, but if you wish tae offer for her hand, I can speak to Da on your behalf.”

  “You’re wrong and know naught what you’re saying,” Alasdair replied curtly. “If you are truly my friend, you’ll drop the subject and mind your own affairs. Better yet, do your best tae convince Edina I am not the man for her and her marriage tae Duncan is a wise choice.” He almost choked on the bitter words.

  Jayden slid his arms under Alasdair’s shoulders and hoisted him to his feet. “I’ll help you to your chamber so you can get some sleep. You may feel differently once you’ve rested and your mind has cleared.”

  “I can rest from now until the day I die, but I willna change my mind. Women arena worth the trouble and your sister is no exception,” Alasdair growled. “Now if you will point me in the direction of my chamber, I will leave afore she arrives.” He reached for the near-empty jug, brought it to his lips, then cursed when Jayden snatched if from his hand.

  “You’ll not be needing any more whisky. Come, I will show you tae your bed.” He clutched Alasdair’s arm in an attempt to lead the away, but he jerked free.

  “I can walk on my own and dinna need a nursemaid.” Alasdair drew in a ragged breath, reclaimed the jug from Jayden’s hand, and took a wobbly step, followed by another. He staggered into the hall, but as fate would have it, Edina approached from the direction he was headed.

  He cursed beneath his breath. There was no way he could avoid a conversation with the lass. He squared his shoulders, raked a shaky hand through his hair, and put on a false smile as Edina and her maid drew nearer. “Good day, ladies.” Alasdair bowed, then stumbled, finding it hard to stand steady. “You look tae be in good health, Edina. I trust you slept well.” The words were slurred and even he could hear the hint of sarcasm in his tone.

  “You’re drunk and smell like you slept in a vat of whisky.” Edina crinkled her nose, waved her hand in front of her face, and took a step back.

  “Aye, but not drunk enough.” Alasdair brought the jug to his lips and took another swig. He swiped the back of his hand across his lips, then belched loudly. “Now if you lovely lassies will excuse me, my friend and I are going to my chamber.” He patted the jug, then took another sip.

  “If you ask me, you’ve had quite enough,” Edina replied tersely.

  The disapproval on her face spoke volumes, but Alasdair was beyond caring what she thought. Mayhap she would see him for who he truly was and be glad she was betrothed to Sutherland. “I dinna ask your opinion and dinna care what you think,” he replied, then muttered a ribald curse in a barely audible voice.

  Edina’s eyes widened when Alasdair pushed past them. “How rude. Best you go and sleep it off,” she said as he staggered down the hall and out of sight.

  “Oh my, he is quite unmannerly,” Helen remarked. “I can see why you wish tae distance yourself from the brute.”

  “He has obviously imbibed too much of my father’s whisky. I have no doubt it was supplied by my brother.” Edina’s brow creased. When she met up with Jayden, she would tell him what she thought. “He is usually not so discourteous. He should—” How could she be defending Alasdair? She gave her head a shake. He cared not what happened to her and she needed to rid her mind of the man and concentrate on how she was going to convince Duncan this marriage was a mistake.

  “Good morning, daughter.” Laird Sinclair strutted down the hall toward them. “Did you sleep well?”

  Edina jumped, startled by her father’s presence. Had he witnessed the exchange between her and Alasdair? “I’m doing as well as can be expected given my life is about tae end.” She lowered her gaze and stepped aside so Laird Sinclair could pass.

  “You are exaggerating, my dear. Marriage to Duncan Sutherland is the beginning of a new life and a union that will greatly benefit the clan. You should be proud and pleased he agreed tae be your husband.”

  “I am not pleased and I dinna want tae wed Duncan or any man who is not of my choosing. I wish there was something I could do or say tae get you tae change your mind.” Edina brought her hands together as if in prayer and waited, hoping her father might show some indication he would reconsider.

  “You have known since you were a wee bairn the day would come when a husband would be chosen for you. Now be a good lass and join me in the great hall. I asked Cook to prepare a special feast in honor of your return.” Laird Sinclair turned and continued down the hall.

  “I canna believe he willna listen to me. What am I tae do?” Edina pressed her hand to her temple. “I canna marry Duncan. I would sooner die.”

  “Och, m’lady, you dinna mean that. You never know, it might not be as bad as you think. I am told Duncan Sutherland is quite handsome and charming. You may be surprised,” Helen said, then touched Edina’s arm. “Hopefully William will bring the Mackenzie lass back and you willna have tae marry him after all. You must have faith in the Almighty and in my William.”

  Helen’s cheerful, optimistic attitude did nothing to change Edina’s state of mind. She was convinced she would never be happy with Duncan and would not give up hope until the dire end.

  The ladies followed Laird Sinclair into the great hall and Edina took her place at her father’s left side. Helen sat at a trestle table with her mother and father. The drone of voices filled the hall, the primary topic of conversation Callum and the events leading up to his death.

  “Good morning, sister. How do you fare this fine day?” Jayden bowed and took Edina’s hand in preparation to kiss the back of it, but she tugged it away.

  “Dinna fine day me, Jayden Sinclair. Why did you leave Alasdair alone with a jug of whisky? The man was well in his cups when I saw him last and lacking any manners whatsoever because of it,” Edina snapped.

  “I dinna tell him tae stay up all night drinking. He is my friend, not my charge. I offered him a drink and how much he chose tae down is his affair. He is a warrior and accustomed tae battle, drink, and women. Mayhap not the kind of man a soon-tae-be married woman should be associating with.” Jayden’s reply was brusque and to the point.

  Edina’s mouth gaped open. “I thought he was your friend.”

  “Aye, but you are my sister and I want what’s best for you.”

  “Your brother is right. You should be thinking about your betrothed and how to p
lease him, not a drunken warrior. I expect Duncan will arrive late this afternoon or on the morrow at the latest. Once you are wed, he will be your main focus of attention, along with providing him an heir,” her father cut in.

  Edina shook her head. There was no point in trying to talk to her father or her brother. Neither was prepared to listen. Thankfully she had taken matters into her own hands and sent for Duncan’s former lover.

  “I heard about Callum.” Edina decided it best to change the subject for the time being. “Is it true he fell tae his death?”

  Her father lowered his head and gave it a slow nod. “Aye. The fool attacked the guard, nearly killed the bugger, then made a run for it. He should have known better than tae try. I sent out a party of men at dawn tae search for his remains. However, I dinna think they will find him. The current is strong and the tide has gone out, likely taking his body with it.”

  Edina placed her hand on her father’s forearm. “I am sorry he let you down, Da. I know you put your faith in him.”

  “He and I have been friends since we were lads. The fact that he would betray me came as quite a shock, but I was bent on seeing him punished. I suppose his death has saved me the task of deciding his fate.”

  “The blackguard got what he deserved. Had I gotten my hands on him, I’d have lopped off his ballocks and fed tae the dogs,” Jayden interjected. “Even that would have been too good for the bastard.”

  “His fate was not yours tae decide, son. But we dinna have tae worry about that now.” Sinclair pointed to the platters of meat, cheese, fruit, and fresh bannock that were placed on the table before them. “Cook has gone to a lot of trouble tae prepare your favorite foods. Eat, Edina.”

  “I’m not hungry,” Edina replied softly. “If you dinna mind, I am still verra tired and wish tae return to my chamber.” She stood to leave, bowed to her father, and was about to exit the room when a messenger entered.