The Condemned Highlander by Donna Fletcher

Author:Donna Fletcher
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Fletcher

16

She regretted her jealous thought when she met the old man and woman who worked the croft. They were kind and generous and she was more surprised when Brogan asked them if they required any help while he was there.

The man was reluctant to say, not so the woman.

“He is too proud to admit we do not have the strength we once had. I am not, since I worry what the years will bring when we cannot work the land anymore,” the woman said.

Annis hurried to say, “There is room in our flourishing village. You both are welcome there where others can offer help when needed.”

The older woman got teary-eyed and looked to Brogan and Annis understood she looked to him for permission. Strange how she did not see him as others did… a noble to be obeyed. It struck her then, Brogan may have eased her worries some of being his wife, but the magnitude of being Lady Annis cast a sudden doubt as to whether she wanted such a life.

Brogan smiled at the couple while wondering over the sudden change in his wife. No one probably noticed it. Even the slight nibble to her lower lip could barely be seen as could the tension in her squared shoulders. He would find out as soon as they were alone.

“It would be a pleasure to have you, Cala, and Phineas, join us in the village. Various dwellings are being built, the village is taking shape and preparing for winter. I will send my men to collect you when a dwelling is available for you.”

“That is most kind of you, my lord, and we accept your generous offer with much gratitude,” Phineas said, worry wrinkling his brow. “But I fear your father, Lord Balloch, would not want us deserting the croft.”

“You have nothing to worry about from my father, Phineas. I will see to that. And while your gratitude is appreciated, do not forget that it is my responsibility to protect and provide for all in Clan MacRae. Now before the skies open up and drench us, it is best my wife and I seek shelter.” He turned a quick glance on a small dwelling that had seen better days.

“Your wife?” Cala said with a clap of her hands and a joyful smile. “Good gracious, my lord, that is wonderful news. Congratulations.”

“It is,” Brogan said with a wide grin. “Lady Annis let me know that even though I have many flaws she wed me anyway.”

Annis jabbed him in the side with her elbow and realized her mistake when the couple’s eyes turned so wide, she thought they would pop from their heads.

“He needs a good poke every now and then,” Annis said, and her face turned scarlet when the older couples’ mouths dropped open, and Brogan laughed.

Brogan’s arm shot around her, and he hugged her to his side. “It is priceless to have a wife who keeps a smile on a husband’s face.” He realized how his remark sounded as soon as the words left his mouth and Cala’s cheeks blossomed with a deep blush.

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