Lady and the Scot, Moriag Series, Book 3

by Hildie McQueen

  Eoghan's gaze was warm when looking to his sister. "Let us go, Breena. I do not want to waste more time."

  "No." She looked to Aiden. "You have more men than he does. Stop him."

  Aiden did not meet her gaze. "I cannot. This region is a peaceful one. I will not bring war again. I am sorry."

  He watched them escort her from the house and went up to the balcony to watch as they rode away. She never looked back.

  In the privacy of his chamber Aiden collapsed to the floor. Hot tears fell down his cheeks.

  Breena had not said a word, but turned on her heel and walked out of his home. Out of his life. He clutched the shift she'd left behind to his chest and tried to breathe, but his breath caught and he finally let go and cried.

  Chapter Nine

  The road home was long and she felt ready to pass out from sheer exhaustion. Not wanting to give the Highlander a chance to change his mind, his brother had hurried back to the safety of the lowlands. Four days later, they neared her home and although her heart ached, she looked around the familiar landscape and couldn't help but compare the difference between this and Aiden's home. The plush mountains and misty air had turned to flatter ground and clear vision for a long distance. She looked to Eoghan. "Can we rest please? I fear I will faint."

  Her brother let out an impatient breath. "Fine." Eoghan was not a cruel person. As a matter of fact, of her siblings, she was closest to him. He'd always been protective of her and given her small presents growing up when her parents slighted her.

  Once they dismounted, she went to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Who is father marrying me to?"

  "Fergal Douglas from the smaller Douglas clan to the northeast." His reply was without emotion. But he let out a breath. "Do you love Aiden Stuart?"

  "Aye." Her eyes misted and she blinked away the moisture. "But his feelings must not be as strong. He did not fight for me."

  "He had little choice." Eoghan’s comment surprised her, but she could not let go of the resentment. "I will not tell father about him."

  "Thank you."

  The reception upon her arrival was a cold as she expected. No one greeted them in the courtyard except her maid who rushed forward and hugged her. Once she was ensconced in her chamber, she sent word to be too tired to join the family for the evening meal.

  Without any haste, her request was accepted and a tray of food brought to her. She ate very little. Her stomach was in knots with grief. Each time thoughts of Aiden formed, her chest constricted and she fought back tears. "I will not cry for him." The words were in vain as tears fell anyway. Of course he'd only offered marriage because of honor, but she doubted he felt much more relief than not at Eoghan's refusal of his offer.

  There was a brisk knock on the wall and her mother entered. Dressed in her favorite dark color, she looked drawn and thinner than when she'd left. "I see you've settled in." Her cold eyes scanned the chamber. "Word has been sent. The Douglas and his son will be here two days hence. Ensure you are prepared."

  "By that you mean what exactly, Mother? I doubt anything I say or do will change the agreement."

  "Do not tire me with your lack of manners, Breena." Her mother studied her face. "What can you possibly be crying about? You are to marry a young laird. You will be the mistress of his home. They are powerful."

  "Is that how you felt when you were sent here to marry? What about my father? Did you make the choice to leave him?"

  Her mother paled. "I accepted my father's decision. Your father was dead."

  "He died?" This was the first time her mother spoke of him. "What happened to him?"

  She watched her mother straighten and look down at her. Something flickered in her normally cold gaze. "He died trying to come for me. Stupid of him. I would never go against my father's wishes, even if I carried his child."

  "So you married Laird McGalen knowing you were pregnant with me?"

  The fate of her brave father made her already burning eyes well up again. "How could you be so cruel? You must have cared for him to..."

  "No, Breena. I did not care for him...I loved him. But I also understood I could never be a guardsman's wife. To live in a hut somewhere would have been worse than death. I was young and impulsive and was lucky that McGalen, your stepfather, accepted me."

  Her mother went to the door. "Enough of this. Ensure you prepare to leave once again. You will be handfasted to the young Douglas the day after he arrives."

  "What was his name?"

  Her mother looked past her and Breena could see the inner struggle. How hard it was to speak his name. "Brenan."

  Breena gasped and covered her face with both hands. When she looked up, her mother was gone.

  The next day she stood atop the keep and looked across the land. It was a sunny day and she lifted her face to the sun. Just one more day and once again she'd be tied to a man. Funny how she'd probably not find herself in such a predicament if she were plain of face. Many had asked for her hand in marriage over the years since she came of age. Most were turned down as her father refused to give her a dowry.

  Robertson had accepted a small dowry in exchange for her clan's loyalty. The man didn't need her small clan. She never understood why he'd wanted to marry her, other than the possibility of one day taking her father's position. But unless the man planned to kill both her brothers, that was far-fetched. The man had been wealthy and her father was probably taken with that. No, he'd wanted her for his own demented reasons. To torture and punish.

  In her heart, she was glad to have known love. To have lain with Aiden Stuart and to have felt the wonderful sensations that came from joining with someone she loved. If she never felt anything more than contentment with Douglas, she'd be grateful.

  The acceptance made her feel lighter. It was best to accept that Aiden was in the past. A part of her to cherish. She would not be bitter and angry at the man for not standing up to Eoghan. No she understood the need to keep peace. Her clan knew little else than clashes and war, it was a sad life.

  The peace in Moriag was a treasure.

  Horsemen approached from the west and she bowed her head and prayed. Seemed the Douglas came early.

  An hour later, Breena entered the great hall to dine. She made her way to the highboard, eyes downcast. Her father spoke. "This is Breena who you come to inquire about."

  Two men were seated to her father's left. Neither was familiar and she wondered which one of the two she was to marry. A male servant assisted her to sit next to the one closest to the end.

  The man stood and helped her settle. He was about the same age as Aiden, and she was astounded that his hair color was the same shade of auburn. She didn't need that reminder. Quickly she looked around him to the other man. This one was older, with the same shade of hair color.

  Her father met her gaze and his eyes narrowed. "Breena, these men are our neighbors to the west. They are from a neighboring clan. Laird Stuart comes to inquire as to whether I'd accept his nephew's offer for marriage. It seems you are quite in demand these days."

  She felt her eyes round and she looked to the older man who smiled at her. "My nephew Aiden awaits your father's reply. He cannot be here today."

  "As I said earlier, the Douglas has already asked," her father interceded.

  The Stuart did not lose his smile when he looked to her father. "Our clan is on friendly terms with Douglas. I am sure they will not stand in the way of a love match."

  "Love?" Her father barked out in laughter. "This is ridiculous. My daughter up until a few days ago was handfasted to Creag Robertson. I will not accept your request, Laird. But if you wish, I have another daughter for your nephew. I have a younger one who is without prospect at the moment."

  "I ask that you reconsider."

  "The Douglases are a large clan. They have power and can protect my smaller one. I cannot forgo such an alliance for the sake of love." Her father’s words dripped with disdain.

  Breena was not sure how to feel. Aiden loved her.
The Stuart had said "love match." But why was he not there. She dared not ask for fear her father would anger. At the same time she needed to know.

  She leaned closer to the man beside her. "Are you a Stuart as well?"

  "Aye. I am Innis Stuart, Laird Stuart's son." He motioned to the man beside him.

  "Why could Aiden not come?" she whispered.

  Innis turned to her. "He was injured on his journey here. Barely made it to our keep before falling from his horse."

  "What happened?" She could barely swallow from fear he could die.

  "Robbers." He must have seen the anxiety on her face. "He will recover. Will be prepared to come for you." He let out a breath. "If your father accepts."

  "He won't." She lifted her cup to her lips, but then realizing she could not possibly swallow put it back down. "Tell Aiden I love him as well and wish things were different."

  "You give up too easily."

  She looked into his eyes and was astounded to see they did not match in color. "You have his eyes."

  "I am older than he, therefore, he has mine." The man chuckled and her father glared at them.

  After the meal, Breena did her best to fight the ache in her heart. Could it be true that Aiden fought for her? For them?

  She walked into her chamber and closed her eyes. God what if she was with child. Would he or her suffer the same fate she. To live with a father who hated the reminder that his wife had lain with another prior to him. She could not do it.

  Rushing to her wardrobe, she grabbed a bag and shoved a dress and two shifts into it. Once that was completed she added a pair of shoes and her jewelry, which wasn't much.

  After donning her heavy cloak, she went out and down the hallway toward the back of the keep. The backstairs were mainly used for the servants. She hoped not to run into anyone who would ask questions.

  The maids should be busy cleaning; the lads, the same. She hoped to make it as far as the side of the keep and to the stables to her horse. Guards would not expect anyone to be about, it was not dark yet. She stowed her bag under her cloak and moved slowly as if out for an evening stroll.

  When she turned a corner, she let out a breath and eyed the distance to the stables. She looked to the sky. "Please help me."

  Just as she took a step a hand grabbed her arm. Breena gasped and turned. "Mother, what are you doing out here?"

  "The better question is where do you think to go?"

  Chapter Ten

  Aiden sat tall in his saddle. His side still ached from the beating he'd taken. Damn robbers had gone off with his favorite sword. He was lucky to be alive as they'd only wanted money and upon hearing his cousin's horses nearing had left in a hurry.

  When he neared the unfamiliar small cottage on the edge of the village, he braced, hoping it wasn't a trap. He lowered to the ground and looked at his uncle and cousin. "Wait for me here."

  They both dismounted and stood beside their steeds.

  The door was not locked and he stepped into the dark interior. The small space was neat. Every item in its place. An older woman started and jumped to her feet. "Are you Aiden Stuart?"

  "Aye."

  "You must go immediately. Make haste." She looked over her shoulder and back to him. "Go."

  "Where is she?"

  "I'm here, Aiden." Breena came from a small adjoining room and rushed into his arms. His large palms cupped her face and Aiden kissed her. Her eyes shined with unshed tears. "You came for me."

  The days since he'd last seen her were like years. It was impossible to imagine a life without Breena. "I can't live without you."

  "Even if it brings war to your land?"

  "It will not."

  He brought her against him and lifted her face. "The Douglas has withdrawn his offer."

  He pulled her back outside and to the awaiting horses. "Come, we have much to discuss. Tonight we will stay at my uncle's home. Then we leave for Moriag in the morning."

  "I don't understand." Breena walked around the bedchamber that night, too nervous to relax. Having a hard time believing she was there with Aiden and that he'd come for her. "My mother helped me get to the cottage. She said someone would come for me there. I thought she meant the Douglas."

  "She sent a messenger to me." Aiden wrapped his arms around her and held her against him. "The messenger said he'd already stopped at the Douglas keep and told them you were carrying my child and asked him to withdraw his offer of marriage."

  "She did that?" Breena pushed back. Why would her mother do all this behind her own husband's back?

  Aiden kissed her temple. "The Douglas wrote a missive withdrawing his offer of marriage and recommending your father accept mine."

  By the time my uncle arrived at your family's keep, your father was furious, but he agreed. "I didn't get a dowry for you, I'm afraid." He kissed her again. "Which means you'll have to repay me in other ways."

  "Such as?" She looked into the most beautiful eyes she'd ever seen. They were full of love for her and darkening quickly with passion.

  "By becoming my wife, giving me many children and loving me always."

  "That, my laird, will be easy to do."

  She rose to her toes and kissed his lips. "I love you, Aiden Stuart."

  He lifted her and walked toward the bed. "And tonight I intend to show you how much I do."

  Epilogue

  Moriag three months later

  "Come in?" Breena put down her sewing at the sound of knocking on the sitting room door. She gasped in surprise when her mother entered. "Mother? You came."

  Her new maid Bess entered behind. "May I bring something to drink?"

  "Yes, please." Breena stood and went to her mother. "Come, sit, please. I didn't know you were coming, else I would have asked Aiden to send guardsmen to escort you."

  "He did." Her mother sat and looked at her. It surprised Breena when her mother's eyes glistened with unshed tears. "I came at your betroth’s request. He sent for me."

  "I am a lucky woman."

  "Aye, you are." Her mother cupped her face. "You look so much like him."

  "My father?"

  Her face softened. "Yes. He was so very handsome."

  "A good man?"

  Her mother nodded. "And brave, like you."

  "The wedding is in two days," Breena said. "Is that why you are here?"

  "Yes, and because I wanted to speak to you and try to explain many things."

  It was obvious her mother was tired, but Breena knew that unless she said what bothered her, she would refuse to lie down. "I understood much when you helped me escape and managed to find a way to get me out of marrying Douglas."

  "I do care for you, Breena. I know I never expressed it. When I realized how my husband lashed out at you when I paid you attention, I learned to keep my feelings hidden. He hates how much you look like him. Brenan was bonnie, like you."

  "I wish to have met him."

  "You would have made him proud." Her mother studied her. "Very proud."

  "I am glad you are here for the wedding."

  "As am I." Her mother smiled, and for the first time in a long time Breena imagined how beautiful she'd been as a young lass. "I wish you much happiness, Breena."

  "Thank you, Mother." They embraced and tears slid down her cheeks. Even if her mother never said she loved her, in that moment she felt treasured.

  When they separated, she looked to the door. Aiden stood there, his warm gaze on them. His lips curved and her heart was lost to him forever. Someday when they had a son or daughter, she'd ensure they married for love. Because the feeling that flowed between them was beyond words, one she would ensure their children experienced.

  He came to her and placed his hand on her shoulder. "Lady McGalen, thank you for coming."

  "I appreciate your summons." Her mother stood. "Now, I must seek my chamber. I am very tired. I wish to rest so that tomorrow I can help with any needed preparations for the wedding."

  Bess escorted her mother away and Aiden help
ed Breena to her feet. "I like to see you happy."

  "I am sure my life with you will bring me much happiness." She leaned into him and laid her head on his chest. The steady beat of his heart assuring her all was well.

  They went to the balcony and watched the sun's descent. Aiden lifted her face to him. "I cannot wait to be together tonight. Will you come to our bed?"

  Breena laughed at his constant request. She'd moved into the adjoining chamber a week earlier. She planned to remain there until their wedding night.

  He let out a long sigh. "It's a silly custom don't you think?"

  "A bit, yes." Breena slid her hand down from his stomach to cover the bulge beneath his kilt. "A horrible custom."

  Aiden swallowed and inhaled sharply when her fingers wrapped around his hardness. "What are you doing?"

  "I'm taking you here." She lowered and watched his eyes widen with realization.

  He lifted a brow. "Is this to be a new custom then?"

  Instead of a reply she ran the tip of her tongue around the tip of his cock and slid him into her mouth.

  "I--I take that as a yes..."

  The end

  Thank you for reading Lady and the Scot. I hope you enjoyed it. It was such fun to write Aiden's story. At first, I had a hard time hearing his voice, but once we came to an agreement, that I was writing his story with or without him, he was a bit more forthcoming. I think I captured the warrior well. Next, I will be working on Ian's story, The Laird's Daughter. Be prepared for a surprise on this one. There is something about Ian, no one knows.

  If you have not read Beauty and the Highlander, the first in the Moriag Series, you can purchase it at most online retailers. It's the story of Carrick Gordon, Declan's older brother and his brave bride Analise. Speaking of Declan, his story is captured in The Lass and the Laird.

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