“What of the wild beasts?” Fiona looked toward the trees. “They will come with the smell of food.”
Although her friend was partly right, Dallis refused to allow her to ruin her plans. “Ye are overly dramatic.”
“Hmm,” Fiona replied noncommittally. “I must agree, nonetheless it is a good place for lovers to spend time alone.”
A butterfly landed on her skirts and Dallis watched it as its wings opened and closed. “If ye are considering stealing away with Guiles, I bet he’d be more than willing.”
The usually cheerful Fiona frowned. “I’m not so sure. He’s been avoiding me since the betrothal was announced.”
“That is interesting,” Dallis said. “He follows yer every movement, never once looking away when ye’re both in the same room. My brother is quite taken with ye. It is a good match.”
“I think so too,” Fiona said beaming. “I am very excited at becoming his bride and yer sister. I can’t imagine anything better.” Her friend jumped to her feet and continued to pick flowers. She looked over her shoulder at Dallis. “I think I’ll pick extra ones to be placed in our chambers.”
“What a great idea. I will help.” Dallis slid off the stump and began to walk about, picking only the younger blooms that had not quite opened yet. The tables at the feast were going to look splendid that night.
There was also something she needed to do. Alasdair had to be made aware her mother knew of her wishing to be with him and not Cuthbert. No doubt he’d also remind her of his station and inability to provide for her. Her mother was probably right when stating he was not the settling type of man.
Alasdair was not only a man without a home, but with his abilities, it would be dangerous to remain in one place too long. People like him were often persecuted or accused of witchcraft. The consequences of such accusations could bring death upon anyone married to him and their children.
Later with flower laden baskets, Dallis made her way to the kitchen, she hesitated when Fiona tapped her arm. “Yer mother wasn’t totally opposed to him, ye know? Don’t be sad. I’m sure if ye speak with Alasdair, he may have something to divulge that will make him more suitable.”
“Perhaps.” Dallis considered it, and realized it was probably in the end it would be best to forget about Alasdair and set her sights on someone her parents would agree to.
They walked past the kitchens and into the great room. The floors had been swept and now maids moved about setting empty tankards on the tables for those who’d sit there later.
It took a long time, but at the end, the great room was brightened by cups of water with the wildflowers.
Her mother and the other laird’s wives entered and went to sit at one of the tables.
“The flowers are a lovely idea,” Lady Gordon said with a bright smile directed at Dallis.
Lady Robertson studied Dallis for a moment making hard not to fidget. “I agree, it brightens the room.”
Dallis smiled at the woman. In truth she liked both Laird and Lady Robertson, it was unfortunate her sentiment did not go further.
“Come, I have a great idea.” Fiona took her hand and tugged her up the stairs and down a long corridor. “Let’s make ourselves beautiful for mealtime. I want Guiles to notice me.”
Unable to keep from rolling her eyes, Dallis chuckled. “He already notices ye plenty.”
Her friend shrugged and they continued until arriving at Fiona’s mother’s chambers. “Mother always brings extra finery, more than she would ever need. She won’t mind us borrowing from the trunks.”
They dug in and found shawls, combs, and strands of jewels. Dallis held a soft deep red shawl up to her face. “I have never seen so much finery in one place. Why does yer mother have so much?”
“My father indulges her and often meets with captains of trading ships for gifts. I have many pretty things as well, but I don’t bring trunks like Mother.” Fiona held up a breathtaking blue gown. “This would bring out the color of yer eyes.”
Fiona’s mother walked in and smiled indulgently at her daughter. “Looking for something to wear for yer betrothed?”
“Yes. Both Dallis and I will be beautifully dressed this eve.”
One thing Fiona and her mother had in common was that they both were relentless when excited about something. Before long, Dallis found herself dressed in the pale blue gown, her hair up in a complicated hairstyle and jewels hanging around her neck and from her ears.
She’d been pinched, cinched and tugged at until breathing was almost impossible. At long last both Fiona and her mother took a step back just as Dallis’ own mother walked in.
“Ye are breathtaking,” Fiona said, turning Dallis to the looking glass. “What do ye think?”
In truth, the reflection was barely recognizable. Dallis’ gaze swept from the satin slippers on her feet up and her breath caught. “I don’t know what ye’ve done, but I don’t look like...me.”
Her mother neared with a soft smile. “Ye certainly do look like yerself, but even more beautiful than usual.”
“All eyes will be on her. I best get done up as well, or else it will be hard to attract any attention,” Fiona quipped.
As the maids turned their attention to Fiona, Dallis could not look away from the mirror. What would Alasdair think? Would her appearance only enhance the vast difference in their stations?
Her stomach tumbled at the fact he’d see her at her best. She pushed any thoughts other than his reaction to her appearance away.
The evening meal was a celebration and Alasdair had to admit it was enjoyable. After the meal was finished, Laird Sinclair invited everyone to the courtyard.
Colorful banners had been strung up which gave a festive air. Once again, the musicians had been summoned. Besides a bright moon, there were lanterns and a bonfire to give plenty of light.
Lively tunes played and people began to dance. Lasses flirted with lads who did their best to keep from stumbling.
Children dashed underfoot as maids deftly weaved through the crowd with trays laden with bread trenchers filled with sweet meats and cheeses.
There were barrels of fresh water and pitchers of ale on tables surrounded by men who stood talking whilst watching the activities.
In a large area, behind the guard’s quarters, men sparred energetically enjoying the attention of an audience. Swords clashed as the warriors grunted with overdone enthusiasm.
Older women sat in circles near the bonfires gossiping as they watched the goings on.
It was times like this that made Alasdair consider changing his lifestyle. Being part of a community was to be cherished and he wondered how many of the people present took this day for granted.
He’d bathed and donned yet another set of clothes loaned to him by Guiles. He’d asked for his to be washed, so that he could depart the next day.
Next to the keep’s main entrance, a tent had been erected for the lairds and families. There were four long tables decorated with flowers and greenery.
He looked to where Cuthbert sat at one of the tables with two men. His guards were not included. Cuthbert had chastised the men, after they’d not come to his defense against Alasdair. His guards were not allowed to participate in the festivities and were told to remain just outside the gates.
The lairds and ladies had yet to make an appearance.
“Come, ye and I will join my laird. He comes momentarily,” Niven said.
“Why me?” Alasdair asked.
“Because ye are a distant cousin of mine and I am cousin to Lady Sinclair.”
Alasdair let out a long breath. “I am not yer cousin.”
Niven grunted. “Are ye sure of that?”
Just as Alasdair reached to touch Niven’s shoulder, the man hurried away.
Moments later, everyone’s attention turned to the front entrance to the main keep in anticipation of the laird’s coming out.
Laird Sinclair exited first, followed by the Robertson and lastly the Gordon. The laird’s wives fol
lowed next in the procession. They walked beside each other with heads held high.
Chatter became louder and necks were craned to catch sight of who walked out next. A blonde Alasdair recognized as Fiona Gordon appeared dressed in hues of green. Her light tresses cascaded from its holdings to her shoulders. Fiona smiled at something another woman whispered to her.
The brunette at Fiona’s side was dressed in pale blue with a braided golden string weaved through her hair and shiny jewels at her throat and ear lobes. Alasdair could not look away.
Breathtakingly beautiful was how he’d describe the brunette, who he now realized was Dallis. Her lips were curved at the corners as her gaze moved across the people. She nodded at a few and accepted a flower from a child who rushed to her on unsteady feet. When she noticed him, their gazes locked, and her smile widened.
Several people followed her line of vision and looked to him. Alasdair pretended not to notice, but it proved impossible not to keep his eyes on her as she made her way toward the tent.
Not only was Dallis the most beautiful woman he’d ever known, but she’d also been his. Alasdair instantly recalled the feeling of her in his arms. In those moments of intimacy, his visions had faded. With her in his bed, he was like any other man, lost in the woman with nothing between them..
And now, as she walked alongside the others, he immediately rushed to join Niven. No one would go near her or attempt to persuade her father to give her to him as a wife. Somehow he would have to come up with a way to offer for her.
Niven had alluded to knowing more about him. Was it possible?
“Cousin, I see ye decided to join us.” Niven motioned to the table where he and several guards sat along with Cuthbert, who glared at him.
Niven met Alasdair’s gaze. “I heard what happened. We must speak of it.”
“There is something else I wish to speak of as well,” Alasdair replied as maids neared with platters. The conversation would have to wait.
Much to Alasdair’s annoyance, Dallis was kept busy most of the meal, so he didn’t have an opportunity to catch but glimpses of her as she went from group to group. She played the role of laird’s daughter well. Everyone from high born to villagers seemed at ease around her. Her attention remained undivided when speaking to someone and more than once he caught sight of her throwing her head back laughing.
This was her element. The lass was worthy of a laird, someone who could provide and give her the life she’d been born into.
Not a man like him.
That she’d granted him so much liberty was a gift. A one-time amazing experience that would not, should not ever be repeated.
Shouts from the guards atop the wall sounded, announcing an arrival. Alasdair’s stomach tightened with apprehension. Whoever came, they were familiar with who he was. The air turned crisp as tingles traveled up his arms. He motioned to his right with his head to Niven.
Warnings of danger always served him well and saved his life on many occasions. “What happens?” Niven followed him as he moved through the crowd toward the stables. “Who is coming?”
“I do not know. But I must leave immediately.” Alasdair looked toward the keep. “Can ye meet me at the caves with my horse and clothes?”
Niven let out an annoyed breath. “I must accompany my laird to greet whoever comes. It may take me a while.”
“I can wait.”
Alasdair moved deftly through the foliage, not stopping until he was a good distance away and atop a hill. From where he stood, the keep was visible, standing proud with a loch guarding its back while thick stone walls on the other three sides provided security of the front and sides.
It was then the colors of the banners became clear. The Macpherson came along with an entourage of guardsmen and archers.
Alasdair wasn’t sure why he’d felt the urge to leave. That he was aware, he’d never met anyone from clan Macpherson. However, he trusted his instincts.
Whatever the laird came for, it was not a friendly visit. When a strong pulse passed through him, he became aware of reason for hiding.
The Macpherson brought a seer with him. Not a strong one as the man had not sensed Alasdair’s presence.
Interesting that the man felt the need to keep a man with the sight with him. Obviously fear of attack or someone seeking to kill him.
In the distance, a large contingent of warriors appeared. By their tartan, they were Clan Robertson. The new protectors and allies of Clan Sinclair. Good, they were ensuring the Macpherson became aware. Although by his presence, he already knew.
Obviously scouts had caught sight of the Macpherson’s travel and had alerted Laird Robertson.
Squatting down, he narrowed his eyes and kept watch over what happened. In all probability, the Macpherson came to check for himself if the rumors of the clans joining were true.
After a long while of not sensing anything horrible occurring, Alasdair moved away from sight to wait.
The day was ending and still Niven had not appeared. Alasdair remained near the cave. Once nightfall came, he’d sleep there having already gathered plenty of twigs and such to make a bed elevated from the damp ground.
Footsteps crunched and he ducked into the mouth of the cave. Hand hovering over his sword, Alasdair kept his gaze focused in the direction of where the sounds came.
Although her head was covered with the hood of her cape, he recognized the figure that emerged. Dallis looked one way and then the other, hesitating and listening before moving closer. Smart lass. Obviously well trained in ensuring not to be followed.
Still she did not go to the cave directly but instead walked in a circle looking up at the trees before scanning her surroundings again.
As soon as she stepped into the cave, Alasdair pulled her against him and covered her mouth with his.
“What are ye doing here?” He tried to sound perturbed, but it was impossible. He was happy to see her and to hold the enticing woman in his arms. “Ye shouldn’t have come. It’s too dangerous.”
“I had to see ye. Niven is detained by his duties to my father, as is Guiles. I am the only one who they trusted to come and tell ye what happens.”
He stood still and listened for any sounds which would identify human interlopers in the area. There were sounds, mostly wind through the leaves and small animals. To him, it was easy to tell the difference the presence of a human makes.
Dallis bent over to recover a bundle she’d dropped. “I brought ye food, a wine skin and a light blanket. I am not sure when Niven or Guiles will get away.” She met his gaze. “Why did ye feel the need to flee? Do ye know the Macpherson?”
“No. I felt that I had to, and I do what my instincts tell me. I am not sure my presence would be welcome during this time. Why is the Macpherson here?”
She hesitated for a moment. “To know if it was true that our clans united. He hasn’t said specifically, other than to state he came to speak to father about border troubles.”
“Do not trust him or any of his people.”
There was doubt in Dallis’ expression as she studied him. “Yer leaving gives me suspicions. If ye’re working with the Macpherson, I will find out and regardless of how I feel about ye, I will not defend ye.”
His lips curved. “Spoken like a true daughter of the laird. I assure ye, I am not. As a matter of fact, I don’t recall ever meeting the man or any of his people. Ye must understand that I have to take great care. If I am accused of witchcraft, my demise would quickly follow. Although I do not fear death, I do not relish burning at the stake.”
“So ye do not plan to remain and see what happens between us then?” There was a challenge in the way her chin jutted out. “I shouldn’t be surprised. Men do not cherish intimacy like women do.”
He reached for her and Dallis took a step back. “Don’t say anything that ye don’t mean,” she snapped. “I should have expected as much.”
“That without knowing me and following only our strong connection, ye trusted me with such a pr
ecious gift is something I will always cherish Dallis.” He cupped her face with both hands and peered into her eyes. “Believe this. My stomach churns at the idea that one day ye will belong to someone else. I don’t wish to remain here and witness it.”
He pressed his forehead against hers. “I don’t know what I could possibly do to deserve ye. Yer da would never agree to a match between ye, his only daughter, to a man like me.”
“My father is a fair man.”
Unable to resist, once again he kissed her, their mouths responding to the call of attraction. Their bodies hummed with need, a need that would not be fed. This was not the time for weakness.
“If yer father is fair, then he will dissuade ye from this. I couldn’t look away today. Ye were so beautiful while fulfilling yer duties as the laird’s daughter. One day ye will make a man of worth the perfect wife. Whoever the lucky bastard is will appreciate ye so very much.”
Dallis placed her hands flat on his chest and pushed away. “If ye won’t stay and fight for me, then ye are right. Ye do not deserve me.”
Turning on her heel, she dashed away, leaving behind a trail of lavender that Alasdair inhaled deeply.
How to fight? He’d never been faced with a dilemma like this. It was more than attraction between them. His instincts and every fiber of his body demanded he fight for her. Against every odd and with the knowledge it could cost him his life.
To what end? Nothing made much sense since meeting Dallis. She clouded his judgment and abilities. That had to be it.
Lowering to the ground, he unfolded the blanket to find another smaller bundle. Inside a cloth napkin were bread, cheese and dried meat. An apple and a dainty handkerchief were also included. He brought the embroidered fabric to his nose. It smelled of the food combined with her distinct lavender scent.
Letting out a long breath, Alasdair allowed his head to fall forward. What was next? He mentally calculated the amount of coin he’d earned over the years. It was more than enough to purchase land and have a house built. Several of his family members had managed to settle and have families, one of them held Alasdair’s earning in hidden coffers.
The Seer Page 7