by Gwyn Brodie
Galen nodded. "Aye."
A slow grin spread across Cinead's face. "That's enough," he said, already on the maid's heels.
Galen and Duncan chuckled.
"I'm going to the stables to make certain the horses will be ready for our departure," Galen said, watching Cinead follow the milkmaid into the byre.
Duncan nodded. "I'll come along."
After giving his instructions to the stable master, the two men walked back to the castle and entered the great hall. Even at such an early hour, people were already gathered there. He and Duncan made their way through the growing crowd to the high table and took a seat. Kade and Jillian were already there, as he'd hoped Sorcha would be.
Kade looked up from his porridge. "Morn." He glanced behind them. "Where's Cin? I ken I saw him just a short while ago? Is he not going to break his fast before you leave?"
Duncan and Galen exchanged glances.
Galen stifled a chuckle. "Cin is helping the milkmaid to break her fast."
Kade grinned.
Jillian shook her head. "Men!" she said, pouring a great deal of honey into her porridge.
Galen chuckled, then got to his feet. "It appears as if my beautiful wife is going to be late. I'd best see about her, or we'll never make it to Perth before nightfall."
Just then, Sorcha entered the great hall and came toward them, her gaze locked on Galen's. She smiled and he swallowed. The lass would never ken the effect her breathtaking smiles had on him. They made him want to wrap his arms around her and to keep her there for all time. "Please forgive me for being late. I was searching the castle for a basket, in which Nutmeg could safely travel."
Galen frowned. "You're bringing the kitten along?"
Her eyes widened. "Aye, why do you ask?"
He shrugged. "I assumed he was to remain here."
Sorcha looked crestfallen. Galen didn't think he could feel any worse.
"But if you wish to bring him, then so be it."
Once again she bestowed her beautiful smile on him and he inwardly breathed a sigh of relief. Her anger he could abide, but never her sadness.
"We must hurry, if we're to find lodgings while it's still light."
Jillian smiled across the table. "Sorcha, I will miss you—and you, too, Galen. I have very much enjoyed your time here."
"As have I," Sorcha said, taking a bite of her scone.
Kade sat back in his chair. "Galen, you ken you are always welcome here, as is Sorcha."
Galen nodded. "I ken." He would truly miss Kade and Jillian, as well as Ian and Robbie. By the time he saw them again, their new bairn would more than likely have arrived. Perhaps Sorcha would soon have a bairn growing in her belly. If she didn't, it certainly wouldn't be from lack of them trying.
Galen's own mother had died giving birth to Ewan, and he tried not to think about the same thing happening to Sorcha. And now, as he'd been doing often of late, he pushed the unthinkable to the back of his mind. He reached over and entwined his fingers with hers.
Sorcha glanced over at Galen, and smiled. Then turned to Jillian."Please give my love to Robbie. Before I came downstairs, I peeked into the nursery to tell him good-bye, but he was fast asleep."
Jillian smiled. "He's grown quite fond of you."
"I'm quite fond of him, as well." Her eyes sparkled with unshed tears.
Galen pulled his gaze away from Sorcha. It was too hard to look at her when she had tears in her eyes.
Jillian twisted around in her chair and looked at Glennis, who waited nearby, and nodded.
Glennis hurried off toward the kitchen. She soon returned with a basket and set it on the table before Jillian.
"Much thanks, Glennis."
The older woman nodded and rushed off.
Jillian turned to Sorcha and Galen. "I've had Cook prepare food for your journey."
"Much thanks," Sorcha said, then glanced at Duncan with a gleam in her green eyes. "I hope 'tis enough."
They all laughed.
Duncan looked up to see what everyone was laughing about, and grinned. Then went back to eating another bannock.
After they finished breaking their fast, and several minutes of hugs and tearful goodbyes, they were on their way to Perth. Kade had sent six of his guards along to see them safely to Oban, in case they ran into trouble with highwaymen—or Campbell. If it had been but himself, Cinead and Duncan, Galen would have declined, but with Sorcha, Ewan and the little maid along, he gladly accepted the offer. Of course, if it'd been only the three of them, Kade wouldn't have bothered to offer, now would he?
***
They'd been traveling nigh upon four hours, stopping but twice to rest the horses and quench their thirst. Galen glanced over at Sorcha, and as always, her beauty took him by surprise. Vivid memories of their passionate lovemaking sent desire raging through his body. He shifted in the saddle. In but a few more days, he'd be home. Then he'd be making loving to her in his own bed—their bed.
Once Sorcha was safely at Moorloch, he'd breathe much easier. At least there, he hoped she'd be out of Campbell's reach. As much as he hated to admit it to himself, Galen did believe Campbell would seek retaliation. The fear gnawed at him like the teeth of a rat, cutting deeper and deeper as time passed, never knowing when and where the swine might strike next
***
Gloaming was upon them, and the moon would soon sit high in the sky to light their way.
Sorcha yawned. "Galen, how much longer until we reach Perth?" She yawned again, blinking to keep her eyes open.
"An hour, more or less" He moved closer and frowned—something he did much too often. She'd have to see about making him frown less and smile more. "Are you tired overmuch?"
"Aye, I fear I am."
"Then come, ride with me," he said, making room for her on his horse.
She was soon snuggled against Galen's warm chest. How can one man emit so much warmth? Sorcha thought, as she drifted off to sleep.
When she woke, Galen held her in his arms, as he carried her upstairs. Evidently, they'd reached Perth and he'd procured them a room for the night. Sorcha should tell him to set her on her feet, that she could walk, but she was reluctant to leave his arms.
A well-fed middle-aged man waited for them on the second level. "This is the room of which I spoke. As fitting a place for a lady as I've ever seen. I sent the servants on ahead to prepare the fire and to light the candles." He opened the door, and handed Galen the key. "The lady's things and yer meal will be sent up shortly," he muttered, before disappearing down the stairs.
Galen kicked the door shut, then set Sorcha on her feet. "I asked for his best room. I hope you like it."
A bed with intricately carved posts sat in the middle of the room. It's burgundy and green floral bed curtains had been pushed to one side, giving a cozy feel to the room. "'Tis lovely, Galen."
There came a knock at the door.
When Galen opened it, several servants entered carrying Sorcha's things, including the basket containing Nutmeg. After depositing everything on the floor, they quickly left. A few minutes later, a servant girl brought their food.
After Sorcha released Nutmeg from his prison, the three of them enjoyed a meal of venison stew and warm bread, but 'twas Sorcha and Galen who ate the apple tarts.
She removed her slippers and stripped down to her shift. She looked up to find Galen watching her, his eyes dark with desire.
He pulled her into his arms and kissed her, then lifted his head. "Did I tell you how pleased I am you're my wife?"
Sorcha lifted a brow. "Perhaps, but I don't mind hearing it again."
He chuckled and hugged her to him.
She wrapped her arms around his waist, mystified as to how she could love anyone as much as she loved him.
A bucket of warm water had been left beside the fire, and she used it to wash away the day's dust. Then she slipped beneath the covers and snuggled against Galen's side. It had been a long day and he'd already fallen asleep. Sorcha kissed him on the
cheek and moved his arm beneath her head. He wrapped it around her shoulders, even in sleep, protecting her from whatever might come. A steady rain fell, softly beating out an age's old rhythm against the roof, lulling her into a peaceful sleep.
Over the next few days, they'd sought Highland hospitality as they traveled closer and closer to Oban. Today, they would board a vessel going to the Isle of Mull.
Now, but a few hours away from Moorloch Castle, Sorcha was apprehensive about meeting Laird MacKinnon. She turned to Galen, riding close beside her. "What if your father doesn't like me?" she asked, her voice breaking the silence.
He chuckled. "Don't fash yourself about my father. You'll have him wrapped around your finger in no time." He lowered his voice. "Just as you have me, lass."
The heat rose in her cheeks. Galen's love for her showed clearly in his dark green eyes. How fortunate she was to have found such a man to love her and for her to love.
Inside the basket strapped to Sorcha's saddle, Nutmeg purred. She was glad. The first day, he'd screeched his unhappiness until Galen threatened to send him back to Ravenskull with one of the guards. Sorcha opened the lid just enough to slip her hand inside, and scratched him behind his ears. He purred louder.
Galen leaned toward her. "That's what I want to do when you touch me." The wicked smile on his handsome face sent her heart racing.
Sorcha gave him an equally wicked smile and his brows rose in surprise. She could also play the game of seduction. Hadn't she, after all, been taught by the best?
She took a deep breath, relishing the smell of the salty air as they neared the sea. She'd never been to the Isle of Mull, nor Oban, for that matter, and wondered what they were like. The sun suddenly appeared from behind the clouds, painting their surroundings with its golden light. She knew there could be no place that possessed more beauty than her beloved Highlands, with its pink heather and yellow gorse covering the glens and hillsides, or the waterfalls that seemingly sprang right from the earth. But with Galen by her side, any place would be perfect.
When they finally arrived in Oban, a birlinn was already anchored at the water's edge. After thanking the MacLachlan guards and sending them on their way, the six of them rode down to the boarding area.
Galen helped Sorcha from her horse before heading off to find the captain to secure their passage. He returned with a handsome, middle-aged man, who, judging by his red face, had indulged in a bit too much drink. Her husband didn't seem too pleased by the predicament, especially when the captain's gaze settled on Sorcha.
Cursing beneath his breath, Galen grabbed her hand and quickly took her aboard—and away from the captain's lecherous gawk. His jealousy was so endearing, she couldn't help but smile.
Cinead and Duncan chuckled as they boarded behind them.
Galen glared at them, but it did naught to dispel their mirth.
Inna looked terrified as she stepped aboard. Like Sorcha, she'd never traveled by sea. But Ewan appeared nonchalant about the whole thing. Being from the isle, 'twas certain he'd boarded many a ship, as had her husband.
Galen and Sorcha took seats directly behind the oarsmen. Inna and Ewan sat behind them, while Cinead and Duncan seated themselves close to where the horses were tethered. The ship rose and fell beneath their feet, making Sorcha a bit queasy. She hoped to get her sea legs quickly, or else the remainder of the journey would be miserable.
After making certain all was secured and the animals properly tethered, the captain let out a high-pitched whistle and the vessel began to move.
Sorcha had never been on a sea vessel before, and was fascinated by the unified movement of the oarsmen. Especially the way their muscles pushed and strained against the thin fabric of their shirts with each draw of the oar, until she thought they would surely tear through. She must have been staring, for when she looked back at Galen, he raised a brow and her face heated.
Galen took Nutmeg's basket and secured it to the plank seat beside Inna. The kitten loudly voiced his opinion of being so close to the water. Then Galen slipped his arms around her shoulders and pulled her against him. He brushed his lips slowly across hers, eliciting a warm shiver of desire.
Galen lifted his head. "Once I get you to Moorloch," he whispered, his breath warming her ear, "I plan to slowly undress you, then lay you across my bed. Perhaps you wish to enlighten me later as to what happens next." He pressed his lips to her throat.
A soft moan escaped her. "Aye, naught would please me more," she said breathlessly.
A sudden clap of thunder and a flash of lightning reminded them of where they were.
Sorcha buried her face against Galen's chest.
Inna squealed and wrapped her cloak tightly around her.
While the wind whipped his hair—and Sorcha's—about his face, Galen surveyed the dark sky overhead. The storm must have come upon them quickly, or else he'd have noticed it earlier and waited for the next ship. But when they'd arrived in Oban, there'd been but a few scattered white clouds hovering north.
Galen straddled the bench and pulled Sorcha to him, covering her with a portion of his plaid. He wrapped his arms around her trembling body, as wave after wave crashed against the side of the ship, shoving it about.
She groaned, quickly turned her head and threw up over the side of the ship, then wiped her mouth on her wet sleeve. Sorcha looked up at him and smiled weakly. She seemed so small, and her face was as pale as a snowdrift. An invisible hand clutched at his heart.
He gently drew her back against him, and kissed the top of her head. Was she with child? The thought both terrified and excited him at the same time. He wanted to ask her if 'twas true, then decided against it. If she indeed was carrying his bairn, she'd tell him in good time.
She slipped her arms around him and held on to the back of his belt.
"You're safe, lass," he said, his lips pressed against her hair, but in truth, he feared for their lives, and perhaps that of a bairn as well. "Inna, Ewan, keep a tight hold on the seat."
The frightened maid nodded and gripped the plank with both hands, as did his brother.
Thunder boomed overhead and Sorcha jumped. Gale force winds slammed against the side of the vessel, followed by torrential rainfall.
"Keep your heads down," Galen shouted above the roar of the wind. Waves spilled over the sides and he feared the vessel would sink, taking them all to a watery grave.
The frightened horses squealed, as they fought against the tethers that held them. Cinead and Duncan calmed them as best they could, as the swells grew higher and higher, tossing the ship about like a twig.
The captain shouted orders to the crew whose rowing skills were being thoroughly put to the test. Shouts cut through the rain pounding against the wooden vessel. One of the crew had been swept overboard, but another pulled him to safety.
Then the birlinn tilted, knocking the four of them to the floor of the ship. He covered Sorcha's body with his, just as an enormous wave came crashing over them.
Sorcha and Inna screamed in unison.
If he didn't think of something quick, they'd be taken by the sea. Galen spotted a chain hanging a few inches off the floor used to secure animals during transport. He grabbed hold, then wrapped it around one hand, while tightening his grip on Sorcha with his other. "Inna, grab hold of my belt and don't let go. Ewan, grab hold of the chain."
Inna moved beside them and latched onto Galen's belt.
Ewan crawled up beside him and wrapped his hand around the chain above Galen's. "Don't let go, lad."
"I'll not," shouted Ewan above the deafening roar of the wind and sea.
Galen could only pray that Duncan and Cinead were safe.
In his basket, Nutmeg howled. There was naught Galen could do for the poor beast. At least tethered to the post, the kitten wouldn't be carried out to sea.
"Galen, we're going to die and we've only just begun our life together," Sorcha cried, almost choking on her sobs.
"Nay, lass, we'll not be dying today. I'll see to
it myself," he said, praying his voice didn't give away the fear that clung to him like the cold rain. Galen glanced at the horses, desperately trying to stay on their feet. But where were Cinead and Duncan? Had they been swept away? Galen blinked against the wind and rain beating against his face, hoping to catch a glimpse of either of them. Then he saw them both and breathed a sigh of relief.
Cinead sat at the oars, taking the place of the crewman who'd near drowned, whilst Duncan scooped water into a bucket and tossed it back into the sea.
The strong winds tore at their clothing, howling and whistling through the oar slots, whilst the oarsmen fought to keep the vessel from being spun about on the violent waves. Soon the winds died down, the rain stopped falling, and the sea started to calm.
Galen helped Sorcha onto a seat, feeling her tremble beneath his hand. "Are you injured, lass? You were knocked about quite a bit." If she were with child, he prayed she'd not lose it.
She lifted her head from his chest. The pink had returned to her cheeks.
Galen let out a sigh of relief.
"I might ask you the same thing," she said, raising a brow.
Galen snorted. "I'm a warrior. 'Twould take more than a wee storm to do me in."
Sorcha rolled her eyes.
Galen chuckled.
"I must say, I've never been so frightened in my life," she said, wringing out her long hair.
Galen took over, careful not to cause her pain, as he twisted her fiery locks until they no longer dripped. "After living the majority of my existence on the Isle of Mull, I've seen more than my share of gales. But 'twas the first time I've been on the open sea during one, and I hope 'twill be my last."
Ewan snorted. "You're not by yourself, brother."
Galen laughed at his brother's wide eyed declaration.
"Inna, are you well?" Sorcha asked.
Inna nodded. "Aye, but m' heart is beating in m' chest like a drum."
"As does mine," she said, smoothing the damp wrinkles from her skirts. "How much further to shore? I'm quite anxious to set my feet on solid ground once again."
He chuckled. "Don't fret, lass. We'll be at Moorloch in time for supper."
"She nodded, then looked down at her wet clothing and sighed."What will your father and clan think of me?"