Highlander's Bride (Heart of the Highlander Series Book 1)

by Gafford, Deborah

  A deep blush spread across the lass's face before she bowed her head from view. For several moments, Alexander stood immobile thinking on his father's words, the betrothal ring gripped tightly in his fist. Damn it, man, do it now and be done with it! Silently, he opened his fingers and slipped the silver ring on her left hand then held her hands between his own. He drew a deep breath and slowly spoke the odious return vow. "I, Sir Alexander MacGregor, do accept and take you, Lady Katherine, as my betrothed, as all here do witness this day."

  Cheers and applause rang out across the hall, nearly drowning out his words. Turning to the dais, he led her to an empty chair beside his at the table. Two silver goblets filled with sweet wine stood in readiness. Silently, he handed one to her. What consequence would come of his vow was still to be seen. Aye, he wouldn't know that until he had spoken with Fiona.

  **

  Katherine sat motionless for a moment before she reached out to take the wine. Her fingers grazed her betrothed's hand. It felt rough and strong. The slight touch sent tremors of trepidation coursing through her. She shivered with the unexpected rush of its intensity. The tingling sensation was more than nervousness. Never before had she felt such an immediate reaction toward a man. Unprepared for the dizzying emotion, she took a steadying breath and took a small sip of wine. Sweet Mary, she wanted no part of this.

  Music and laughter broke out as the betrothal feast began in earnest. Tempting dishes were passed around. Savory food was heaped on bread trenchers to the apparent delight of everyone there. Everyone, that is, but her.

  Katherine looked at the single trencher she shared with Alexander, as was the custom. Her mouth was so dry, 'twas doubtful she could swallow a bite. Taking another sip of wine, she watched as he began to eat heartily. Fie, only a man would be so calm, faced with this catastrophe.

  Alexander nodded coolly at her as he reached for another piece of cheese. "Lady Katherine, I trust our Highland fare is to your liking."

  Endeavoring to keep the tense edge from her voice, she said, "Aye, my lord, but I fear I may yet be weary from our journey here and do not find my appetite as usual."

  He simply cocked an eyebrow. "Indeed."

  Katherine met his look with determination and took a bite of venison. She'd accepted the wretched betrothal. What other choice did she have? But she would be no man's subservient slave. She would not give up her spirit along with her name.

  Looking out across the hall, she saw many cheerful faces. At least some folk found the occasion a reason for joy. For several minutes, she watched the people in the hall and tried to ignore the man beside her.

  Eventually, Alexander's deep voice drew her attention. His tone was laced with obvious boredom. "Tell me, Lady Katherine, do you know the custom of a betrothed lass to pleasingly wait upon her lord?" Thrusting his empty goblet toward her, he added, "I desire a fresh drink of our Highland usquabae from yon table."

  Irritation coursed through her at the arrogance of his words. So, already it began. Apparently he expected her to docilely leave her seat and fetch him a drink of the locally made whiskey. The gall of the man. She was his betrothed not his servant. Well, he would soon learn she had no intention of accepting a meek, submissive role.

  Straightening her shoulders, she turned to one of the young servants as he passed by. "Lad, kindly see to it that your master be given a fresh serving of usquabae. 'Twould seem his great thirst has made him too weak to serve himself."

  With a quick, "Aye, m'lady," the wide-eyed servant did as she bid.

  When she looked back at Alexander, a quiver of apprehension ran through her at his clenched jaw and grim expression. Fie, there was naught to be done about it. He'd best learn the way of it now.

  Movement from across the table happily drew her attention from his frown. William, the man she'd been introduced to as her betrothed's brother, stood and called out to the assembly. "Good men and women, all. I wish to make a toast to the happy couple!" Smiling, he raised his chalice toward the crowded hall.

  Sensing his good wishes were genuine, she deliberately avoided Alexander's visage and calmed slightly.

  Turning to face her, the man continued, "Brother Alexander and Lady Katherine, may your lives be joined together as one and may you always know true happiness in spirit, friendship and laughter, to guide you in love's way." As he raised his drink to his lips, clansmen and castle folk called out their approval and drank to the toast.

  Katherine felt the last of her tension dissolve and smiled back. Obviously the young man held true affection for his brother and offered friendly acceptance of her. 'Twas a pity Alexander showed not as pleasing a manner. He would do well to learn from his younger brother.

  Ian MacGregor stood and held up his hand for quiet. When the hall became hushed, he spoke. "I agree with William, but will add something more besides our good wishes." Smiling, he pulled a small rolled piece of parchment from his sporran. "Alexander and Lady Katherine, as laird of this proud clan, I vow before all, that as a wedding gift, I give you Castle Ironwood and all of the surrounding lands and vassals that serve it. Upon yer marriage, Alexander, you shall be laird of Ironwood!"

  Merrymakers jumped to their feet, raised their cups, and shouted, "To Laird Alexander and Castle Ironwood!" A few men pounded the hilts of their dirks on the tables, while others shouted the clan motto over and over again.

  The MacGregor piper set his lips to his chanter. His skilled fingers called forth the notes to a lively Highland reel. Several clansmen headed toward the center of the hall with their women folk. When they reached a large area clear of tables, they began to dance while others looked on, clapped and sang.

  Alexander turned to Katherine and asked, "My lady, do you know the dance to Muirsheen Duirkeen? It is expected that we dance together to bind our betrothal."

  The clamor and excitement rippling through the hall lifted her spirit in spite of her misgivings. She nodded. "Aye, I do, and would find it most pleasant to join in the dancing."

  "Well, if you think you can keep up with me, then let us do so."

  Did he think her so easily controlled? Lifting her chin, she returned his gaze. "Ah, Sirrah, I shall match you step for step. Dinna fash that you must drag me about."

  "'Tis good to know, lass." For a moment he looked as if he were going to smile, then his expression turned indifferent once again.

  When they reached the center of the room, he bowed and took her into his arms. His tall muscular frame obstructed most of her view and his large hands easily wrapped around her waist. Fusing warmth spread through her at his touch. She couldn't hold back a slight tremble as he pulled her close.

  "Are you chilled, lass?" His keen smile told her he knew otherwise.

  Her pulse began to race. Confusing thoughts danced in her brain. In truth, he was indeed handsome. Tanned skin, full lips, and aquiline nose framed vivid green eyes that seemed to peer into her soul. Rather than bright red hair as his sire had, Alexander's shoulder length hair was auburn. But whenever he moved, highlights of red shone among the brown. His square chin was clean-shaven, exposing a cleft in its center, above his thick, powerful neck. And his shoulders. Had she ever seen such broad ones before? Saints be with her. She mustn't be swayed by his braw looks.

  Although not dressed in the MacGregor kilt, his clothing still drew her attention. A leather jerkin and a shirt of fine white linen stretched taut across his wide chest. His black leather breeks fit snugly around his slim hips and well-muscled legs. Even the thick woolen hose that showed above his boots did not hide the sinewy strength of his calves.

  The top of her head just reached his chin and at times his massive shoulders obscured her sight. When they twirled with the music, the ends of his hair fluttered in the air before her face, leaving a tantalizing hint of musk and spice.

  His body pressed closer the longer they danced, and excitement rushed through her leaving her breathless. His nearness left her filled with pleasure. Her skin tingled from his touch. What would it be like to rem
ain wrapped within such strong arms forever?

  Heat flooded her face as the startling idea drifted through her thoughts. By the saints, what was she thinking? Was she so easily swayed by the mere good looks of the man's physique that she lost all sense of what the future held? She'd danced with other handsome men before. Aye, and learned the treachery behind an attractive smile and warm embrace.

  True, but never had she felt the instant physical attraction with anyone else that she did with Alexander when he held her. Never before had she felt so alive as she did now, not even with Daniel. She yearned to know more of the Highlander's touch. To stare into the green depths of his eyes until she lost herself.

  Katherine shook her head to clear it. Sweet Mary, this braw Highlander had a way of disarming her resistance with one look. Instinctively, she knew his virility could easily conquer her body and soul if she let him. She must be on guard against his charm and her awakened longing. She would not give him the chance to break her heart.

  Suddenly, the music played faster. Alexander clasped her tighter and spun her around until everything in the hall became a blur. All she noticed was the strong, handsome man holding her close.

  When the dance ended, she clung to him dizzily for a moment until she could regain her balance. Her breasts were crushed against him, making it difficult to breathe. Forcing herself, she took a step back and looked up at him. She wasn't sure what she expected, but it was not the deep frown he wore. From his grim expression, 'twas no doubt the dance had not affected him as it had her. His voice turned gruff and he dropped his arms to his sides as he jerked his head back toward the dais. "All this dancing has brought on my thirst. Let us return to our seats."

  Before she could speak, he led her back to her seat at the laird's table. Then he picked up his goblet and walked across the hall. Pouring himself a drink, he struck up a conversation with some of his clansmen.

  Bemused, she watched him and sighed. Saints above, she must look like a senseless love struck maiden. She had best get control of herself. Katherine took a deep breath to compose her thoughts. How could she hope to change her parents' plans if she sat there looking dreamy eyed and dumb as a post?

  A burst of laughter drew her attention back to the dancers as a large group of revelers frolicked in a lively reel. 'Twas no sense wishing to join them. Alexander had unnerved her enough with just one dance. Best not to think about that. Looking down at her plate, she shrugged. She should eat a bit. He would return soon enough.

  Three dances later, she darted an annoyed glance across the room. It seemed she had misjudged the man. He displayed no enticing charm of which she need be wary. After yet another dance, a bard began an ancient tale of star-crossed lovers. The lengthy story wound on and on. Katherine tapped her fingers on the table. Was she supposed to sit there and meekly bide her time until her betrothed tired of conversation with everyone in the hall and decided to return to her? His impudence knew no bounds.

  Grasping her knife, she stabbed at a piece of meat on the trencher. The music began again in a familiar tune. Setting the knife down, she glanced across the table. "Sir William, Lord Alexander has gone to quench his thirst and the song your kinsmen are playing is one of my favorites. Would you stand in his stead, as my future brother within the law, and lead me in the dance?"

  "Aye, my lady, with pleasure."

  Just as they reached the dance floor, the music changed to a slow pavanne. Murmurs rippled through the crowd in their wake. As William and she circled around the area, bemused stares met her at every turn. Hearing a snort of laughter, she looked to her right.

  Alexander stood a few feet away, watching her. She was close enough to hear his clansmen's comments as they nudged him and pointed toward her. "Will ye look at that now? What's she doin' dancin' with yer brother? Is she so wont to have men pantin' after her that she couldna wait fer ye to return?"

  An elderly man with a gray matted beard grinned, exposing several black gaps from missing teeth. Wiping his mouth on his shirtsleeve, he said, "Aye. Ye'd best be wary, Alexander. The lass forges links to yer chain o' bondage by tryin' to stir yer jealousy." When Alexander stepped forward, the old man shook his head in protest. "Och, lad, will ye let her shame ye into attendin' her?"

  Another clansman slapped the grizzled man on the back, causing his drink to slosh over the rim of his mug and drip down his arm. "Are ye daft, old mon? He willna bend to the whims of such a lass. She'll soon learn he canna be made to jump to her will."

  All three clansmen looked at Alexander as if expecting an answer. Disturbed more than he wanted to admit, he quickly downed the rest of his drink, spun on his heel, and left the hall.

  Katherine nervously looked around the room in his wake. Many faces were set in a scowl. Had she gone too far? No. She was the one who had been abandoned at her own betrothal feast. Not him.

  The music ended abruptly as Ian MacGregor strode up to her, his lips set in a tight line. Katherine swallowed nervously. Was he going to rebuke her? She shot an anxious glance toward her parents, but they did not respond.

  Ian cleared his throat and bowed. "Lady Katherine, might I have the honor of being yer next dance partner? My son will return soon and I fear I willna have another chance to dance with so lovely a lassie."

  Feeling light headed with relief, she managed a nod as William stepped aside. "It… it would be my pleasure, Laird MacGregor."

  Ian signaled for the music to begin and led her into the dance. As they passed William, he looked at his younger son and jerked his head toward the doorway. William nodded silently and headed in that direction.

  Sweet Mary, he was sending for Alexander. Her face grew hot with embarrassment and she stumbled.

  Ian smiled and winked. "Och, I beg yer pardon, lass. I fear my dancin' skills are not what they used to be."

  When the dance ended, and Alexander still hadn't returned, Ian led her back to her seat at the dais. Bowing over her hand, he said, "Thank you for the dance, lass." Then glancing at a nearby group of clansmen, and raising his voice slightly, he added, "'Tis sure I am that ye will be too busy the rest of the evenin' to afford me time later."

  No sooner had he left her side, than several eager clansmen came to her asking for the honor of a dance. The time sped by quickly, and before she realized it, the hour to retire was nearly upon them. Still Alexander had not returned. Where could he be? The whispers of the crowd grew noticeable and she felt her face heat in embarrassment for a second time. How dare he do this to her! The man was an ill-mannered boor and she wanted none of him.

  Katherine fanned her warm face as she looked at her current dance partner. Desiring a breath of fresh air, she asked, "Might we step into the garden for a moment? 'Twould be much cooler there." She smiled at the young man's apparent expression of discomfort. "I promise not to keep you long from enjoying the music with the other ladies."

  He pulled at the collar of his shirt as if it were too tight. "Outside? Uh, well …uh, aye."

  No sooner had they walked into the garden, than she heard two familiar voices raised in obvious anger.

  "… and I tell you I willna have you embarrass the lass or our clan. Return to the hall immediately, Alexander, and attend your betrothed until all retire!"

  The reply was clipped short as if spoken through clenched jaws. "As you command, Father."

  Embarrassment shot through Katherine. Sweet Mary, she wanted to hide and never show her face again. No. She had done nothing to be ashamed of. 'Twas that pompous dolt she was betrothed to who should be feeling so.

  Silently, her escort led her back into the hall as if nothing had occurred. He bowed and left her seated at the dais.

  Throughout the room, a murmur of voices rose. She didn't need to glance at the doorway to know Alexander had entered, but she looked nonetheless.

  He strolled toward her as if he had nothing more serious on his mind than another taste of food from the trencher they shared, but his fingers gripped her chair with an inflexible hold. "Lady Katherine,
I would ask your pardon for my absence, but 'twould appear you have been much too occupied to notice. Perhaps now, as my betrothed, you will spare one dance for me."

  Furious at being treated so, she lashed out in a low hiss. "Faith, sir, I am weary and do not wish to play nursemaid to your arrogance. I shall retire now, and you have my leave to find a less discerning dance partner!"

  For a moment, he faced her in stony silence. Then he bowed coolly over her hand and placed it on his arm. "If m'lady seeks to retire for the evening, then by all means, I will escort you from the hall."

  Rising stiffly, she walked in tense silence beside him, stopping in front of her parents and Laird MacGregor to wish them good night.

  When they reached the corridor, she yanked her hand from his arm. "I am perfectly capable of returning to my chamber without your escort. By your leave, I will do so now and leave you to entertain yourself."

  She'd moved no more than two steps before she felt the warm grasp of his fingers on her arm.

  "Ah, but lass, I did not give you leave to go. Therefore, as your betrothed, I will escort you to your chamber door as is my duty."

  All along the silent passageway, their echoing steps seemed to mock their lack of conversation. At her door, Katherine turned to him, barely able to control her angry voice to a whisper. "You, Sirrah, possess a truly convenient memory as concerns your duty and attentiveness. Kindly leave me now to rest from such ardent regard!"

  Without waiting, she stepped into her chamber and shut the door in his face. She leaned her cheek against it and drew a shaky breath. Her damp palms pressed against the wood as her heart hammered so loudly she feared Alexander could hear it.

  As if the solid oak door were no more than a wisp of smoke, she sensed him standing in silent fury on the other side. She felt his stare burning through the door like a flaming brazier of coals. Sweet Mary, what would she do if he forced his way in?