Prescribed for Love

by Mallory Moutinho

  Alasdair knew as laird, he set the example for his men. So as he assessed their practice, he was irritated he could not keep his mind on the exercise. Instead, images of Catriona beneath him kept resurfacing from the night before. As if his thoughts had the power to conjure, Catriona suddenly appeared before him.

  ***

  Cat had found Ailsa early the next morning to ask how she might be of service. At first, Ailsa had protested since Cat was a guest. But, Cat insisted she hated being idle and needed something to occupy her time until she found a way to get home. When Ailsa suggested Catriona accompany her and Lainie to the nearby village to visit Lainie’s sick mother, Cat heartily agreed. This was just the type of opportunity for which she was searching.

  Excited, Cat grabbed her bag and met the young women downstairs. She followed them outside, but was surprised when they did not immediately head in the direction of the gate. Instead, they headed toward the sound of clashing metal.

  As they drew closer, Cat realized the origin of the sound was from men training for battle. If she had still doubted she was now living in the past, this image would have eliminated any remaining disbelief. These men obviously lived and died by the sword. The interplay between two opponents was both graceful and frightening. There was just no likening to it in the twenty-first century.

  Yet, as spectacular as the image was before her, when she discovered Alasdair’s gaze focused solely on her, Cat found she could not break away from his stare. She could see the same passion in his eyes from the night before, and felt her own body respond. His look was so heated Catriona even began contemplating a fling. Her time here was not permanent, so as long as she did not get emotionally involved, she did not see a problem. After all, she may as well take advantage of the attraction the two felt for one another. There was nothing stopping her from fulfilling her physical needs while also fulfilling the need that brought her to this time.

  “Good Morning brother, I was wondering if ye could spare Branan for the morning. We intend to visit Lainie’s mother and could use an escort,” explained Ailsa. Catriona tried to hide a smirk as she noticed Lainie’s cheeks turn slightly red at the mention of the guard’s name. So that’s how it is! Cat would have to keep an eye on those two; maybe she was needed to bring true love together. Alright Cat, now you’re getting carried away.

  Even if Cat’s errant thought had been accurate and she had been brought into the past to play match-maker, Lainie and Branan did not need any assistance. When the group began their walk to the village, the two flirted with each other incessantly. Their tender whispers brought a smile to her face, even as their behavior made her roll her eyes. Realistically, Cat was just jealous; she had always wished she had had more time for these flirtations when she was younger. Finally, the lovers separated as the party approached their destination. Lainie invited Catriona inside to meet her mother.

  After the introductions, Cat asked about the older woman’s symptoms. She had developed a fever and cough many weeks ago that had also been accompanied by terrible pains in her back and head. Cat could not be sure, but it sounded like the woman had had the flu. Now, the woman was still weak and had a lingering cough. She was even sometimes delirious. Cat was willing to bet the woman had developed pneumonia. Reaching into her purse, Cat pulled out a package of antibiotics she had refused to use when she had been sick. It was rather ironic that even though she went through pharmacy school, she hated taking pills.

  Pulling Lainie aside she said, “I need you to give these to your mother every day. Have her drink them with a full glass of water. She must take all of them. I cannot guarantee they will work, but there is a good chance.” Cat hoped the infection was bacterial and not viral; otherwise, the pills would be a complete waste.

  During their return trip to the castle, Cat began a conversation with Ailsa. She wanted to learn more about Alasdair before giving serious consideration to a fling. “So, tell me about your brother.”

  “Why, do ye have a special interest in the man?”

  I am going to have to work on my subtlety skills. “Not the type you are implying,” replied Cat, even though that was a complete lie. “I simply want to know what kind of man he is since I will be staying under his care until I can find a way home.”

  “Oh, ye have nothing to fear from him. Alasdair’s behavior can be rough, but he truly is a kind soul. He does everything within his power to provide for his people. He willnae mistreat ye—if that is yer concern.”

  “No, I wasn’t worried about that,” replied Cat. When Ailsa seemed disinclined to provide any additional information Cat added, “He sounds as if he takes his responsibilities very seriously.”

  “Aye, he does.” Ailsa continued, “Our father was a good and kind man, but he didnae plan much for the future. Each winter there was only ever enough to get the castle and its inhabitants through to the next spring, never any surplus of provisions. Honestly, he didnae take advantage of the land. This is part of what began the recent problems with the Camerons. They began encroaching into our borders since they were always struggling to provide for their numbers. My father forced them off our lands—rightfully so—but Cameron took this as a great insult. He thought my father was mocking his inability to provide for his people—why else would a man waste such a resource?”

  “Did Cameron retaliate?” asked Cat.

  “Aye, and severely. A few years back, there had been a winter much harsher than in years previous. We barely made it through. The Camerons were nae as fortunate; they lost many souls that season. Desperate to avoid repeating the disaster of the winter, he tried to take our land from us. Our father fought his army back, but was fatally wounded in the battle. We had barely laid him to rest when the Camerons struck again. They set fire to our farmland and villages. My mother had been visiting one of the villages most viciously attacked by the Camerons. She wasnae able to escape the flames.”

  “I…I don’t know what to say…that’s truly horrific. I’m so sorry” whispered Cat.

  “Aye, it was terrible. But, my brother has done his best to be a better laird. We have finally started to put away greater stores of food, and he prepares the men well for a potential attack. Alasdair feels another fight with the Camerons is unavoidable since they still want our land. I can only pray he is wrong—though their recent activities lend credence to Alasdair’s suspicions.”

  Ailsa finished her explanation as they once again stepped within the confines of the keep. “Is there anything else I can help you with today?” asked Cat. Lady Help still has work to do!

  “Would ye like to join me and the other women? We could always use an extra set of hands for the mending and weaving,” suggested Ailsa.

  “Sure. Although, I must warn you, I am not very good at either.” While Cat was doubtful she had been sent into the past to patch holes in socks, she knew going to a room full of women could work to her advantage. If there was one thing that never changed over time, it was women’s habit of gossip. She could listen to the idle chatter to hopefully ferret out the needs of the castle. Although Ailsa said the keep was finally coming to rights, Cat still bet she could find a way to improve upon something.

  Unfortunately, Cat quickly grew to regret her decision. She was so inept at sewing Ailsa had to show her everything, step by step. Cat could hear the other women try to suppress their giggles as she was walked through the most basic stitches. Instead of gossiping as Cat had hoped, all the women were giving her pointers on how best to improve her technique. She knew the women were not being mean, but it was still embarrassing. It was not as if Cat had never developed a craft, the problem was simply that crocheting had not yet become a common practice. It was a shame she had not learned to knit instead; she saw plenty of women engaged in that activity.

  An idea popped into Cat’s head as she spied a broken knitting needle across the room. “I’ll be back in a little while.” Catriona grabbed the damaged needle and put it in her purse before going outside. Needing to be away from any wande
ring eyes, she wandered about the keep to find a secluded area.

  Satisfied she was now alone, Cat found a place to sit and took the broken piece from her purse. Digging even deeper she withdrew her Swiss Army Knife. To the best of her ability, she began to whittle the needle into a crochet hook. It actually turned out to be fairly easy. She shortened the needle to a more blunt point, and then carved out the indent needed to form the hook. However, the new areas were now rough and would catch on the thread. Unsure if it would work, Cat reached into her purse and pulled out her emery board.

  She began to file her new hook with gusto. The board did not work quite as well and sandpaper would have, but Cat was still satisfied. “Ha! Success!"

  ***

  As if attuned to Catriona’s every movement, Alasdair noticed as she left the castle, wandering to a little-used part of the keep. As if afraid of discovery, she kept looking behind her. Intrigued, Alasdair followed her, but kept his distance to ensure he would not be discovered—he was curious to learn what she was doing. From a few yards away, Alasdair watched as Catriona worked diligently on something in her hands. Finally seeming satisfied she held up a small stick and said, “Ha! Success!”

  “And just what have ye done successfully? That doesnae look to be verra effective as much more than a toothpick,” said Alasdair as he finally decided to let his presence be known.

  Catriona turned and let out a small shriek, “Don’t do that! You scared the shit out of me!”

  “I apologize, I didnae mean to scare ye. I simply wanted to discover why ye felt ye needed such privacy.”

  “Now who’s spying on whom? And, if you could tell I wanted privacy, why would you follow me?”

  Alasdair shrugged his shoulders unapologetically. “Ye still havenae answered my question. What is that wee stick ye are so excited about?” He still did not understand how such a simple item could elicit such a response.

  “It’s a crochet hook,” she replied. When Alasdair looked at her confusedly she continued, “It’s a type of craft, for making lace or blankets. I was trying to make myself useful to your sister, but I’m not very good at sewing, weaving, or knitting. At least with this I could actually accomplish something.”

  “Ye are a guest in my home, ye dinnae need to busy yerself with such tasks,” replied Alasdair. He was a bit affronted that she should feel the need to work.

  “That’s kind of you to say, but that doesn’t change anything. Plus, I’ve already had this argument with Ailsa—I cannot just sit idly by while each day passes me by. I need to work for my future.” Alasdair had to admit he was impressed. He had never seen a woman so driven. Considering the trouble his lands had come to by the lack of his father’s planning, Alasdair thought if ever he decided to take a wife he would want to see this quality in the woman. Looking at Catriona, Alasdair had to admit she would make any man a fine wife. Aye, well, I cannae take a wife. But, that doesnae mean I cannae enjoy a willing woman’s embrace.

  Deciding to test his luck, Alasdair reached for Catriona’s arm and pulled her to her feet so her breasts just grazed the front of his chest. Seeing no hesitation in her eyes, Alasdair smiled.

  ***

  That smile should be illegal! Catriona could feel her heart begin to race as she anticipated his next action. She expected him to once again kiss her, but instead he lowered his head to nibble at the sensitive spot just below her ear; the hairs on her arm stood as if she had been electrified. She still was not entirely certain she would pursue the fling she had been contemplating, but she thought she should let this continue—as a preview of sorts. Really Cat? You’re just gonna sample him—like he’s a box of chocolates?

  Alasdair ran languid kisses along her jawline until he reached the corner of her mouth. He paused briefly, increasing the anticipation before letting his tongue sensually trace the small parting of her lips. Nope, he’s definitely not chocolate. I’m the one that’s freakin’ melting. Opening her mouth to his, she felt her knees weaken as his tongue began to tease hers. And, he tastes waaay better than chocolate! Fortunately, Alasdair seemed aware of his effect, because he drew her in closer, letting his body support hers.

  Their tongues continued their sensual dance. Cat frequently tried to increase the tempo, but Alasdair did not appear to be in any rush. He continued to deny her until he heard her throaty groan of frustration. Backing her into the wall nearest them, he finally intensified the kiss as she desired. Cat let her legs separate a few inches to allow Alasdair full contact with her body.

  Sadly, this did not lead to the desired outcome. Rather than continue their embrace, Alasdair backed away. “This isnae the time nor the place.” He placed a quick kiss on her forehead. “Later.”

  Bu...aa…err…LATER? What the hell is that supposed to mean?

  ***

  Having grown concerned at Catriona’s long absence, Ailsa went to find their guest. She did not have to search long, for she found her brother leading the girl back inside. “Catriona, there ye are! I had become worried.”

  “Sorry I took so long, I was making this,” replied Cat as she held up one of the broken knitting needles. Although, it now looked even more maligned. Catriona must have seen her confusion because she continued, “It’s for crocheting.” This did not help to enlighten Ailsa. “It’s kind of like knitting—I’ll show you once we get inside.”

  “I thought she was making a verra wee weapon,” said Alasdair with a wink.

  “Of course this is a weapon,” replied Cat while rolling her eyes. “The next time a man attacks me, I’ll politely ask him to wait so I can make him a sweater with which to restrain him.”

  “Aye, well, let us just hope ye dinnae need to defend yerself from an attack again.” She was glad to see Catriona and her brother getting along amicably; Ailsa wanted to ensure Cat felt welcome. “But, ye will just have to show me how to crochet tomorrow—tis nearly time for supper.”

  ***

  Seated between Alasdair and Ailsa, Catriona stared at the food placed before her. There really had not been much variety in the food she had seen. Tonight, there was coarse bread, and a stew of some sort, and fish. God, what I wouldn’t do for a pizza right now. Cat was immediately ashamed of the thought when she recalled the MacLean’s current struggles. This was just another reason to get back to the twenty-first century. She did not want to be a strain on their meager resources.

  Focusing her attention on Ailsa, she was glad to see the girl had not touched any bread; she did not want the girl to get sick again. This thought led Cat to think of her other patient. “Ailsa, do you think we could go visit Lainie’s mother again tomorrow? I would like to check in on her.”

  “Aye, that is a wonderful idea. Alasdair, may we borrow Branan again?”

  “Nay, I will go with ye tomorrow.”

  I wonder why he wants to go. Maybe this is the ‘later’ he was referring to. Unsure what to make of Alasdair’s decision, but glad to have plans to revisit her patient, Cat let her gaze wander to the other occupants in the room. She had always enjoyed people watching, so she was content to just sit and observe. She smiled when she spotted Branan and Lainie. The two were obviously in the throes of new love. They smiled at one another almost incessantly and seemed to be completely entranced by each other’s words. Truly, it was almost disgusting.

  Letting her eyes drift over the rest of the room, Cat was amazed by the sense of camaraderie and friendship that seemed to permeate the room. While the hall had dozens upon dozens of people in it, she had always imagined this was how a family dinner should feel. Dinners with Keith had been nice, but they had just never seemed whole with only two people. Poor Keith! I wish I could let him know I’m okay.

  Once again overcome with the need to return to her brother, Cat said, “I’m going to head to bed, it’s been a long day.” She needed to try asking the book to send her home again.

  “I will escort ye,” offered Alasdair.

  “No, there’s no need.” She did not need any distractions right now.<
br />
  Once Cat reached her room, she ran through almost the same routine with the book as the night before. But, she was still displaced by six hundred years. Maybe once Lainie’s mother gets better this stupid thing will work…

  ***

  Nothing! Absolutely nothing! It made no sense to Keith. How could Cat go missing with absolutely no hint as to her whereabouts? It was as if his sister had simply vanished!

  ***

  Chapter 7

  Alasdair did not feel guilty taking the women to the village the next morning. While it was important to train his men, he knew it was just as important to ascertain how the clan outside of the keep was faring. Sadly, much of the damage from the night of the Cameron attacks years ago was still visible. Many homes had never been rebuilt. He had hoped to begin repairs in earnest soon; he wanted to show his people he could be depended upon—unlike his father. But, the recent events with the Camerons prevented him from focusing on the rebuilds.

  Alasdair had insisted they ride to the village to waste as little time as possible. Letting his horse fall behind the women, he let his mind wander. When he returned to the keep, Alasdair wanted to ensure Niall was having no difficulties in leading the patrols. He also wanted to talk to Cailen about the younger guards’ training. The older man could no longer fight as he once had, but he was excellent at determining when the younger men were ready for more responsibility. Alasdair needed to know the capabilities of the men at his disposal. Branan had been one of Cailen’s more recent wards. So while the youth did not always appear to take his assignments seriously, Alasdair knew Cailen would not have recommended him if he was not dependable.