The Raid of Balvenie and the Maiden Who Survived by Cheri Gillard

Author:Cheri Gillard
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: historical, time travel, angels and demons, prequel, feuds, scottish highlands, paranormal ya, keith clan
Publisher: Cheri Gillard

PROPOSAL

The Great Hall of Dunnottar’s manor house was filled with people who had come for the festivities to celebrate the recent birth of William Keith’s newest son. William and Margaret had opened their fortress to the citizens of Stonehaven, and the townsfolk had turned out in droves for the celebration. The food was nearly gone when Jean entered the hall, having delayed her attendance as long as possible, frightened for what she’d agreed to.

Musicians were playing a reel as groups of dancers held hands in circles while turning ’round and ’round. Jean watched from just inside the door wondering how long until MacKay appeared and began acting like he owned her. She’d told him she would attend after all, so she knew he’d be waiting and watching for her.

“Where have you been?” he said into her ear from behind. His voice snarled and snapped.

Jean turned and with the movement put distance between them. She ignored his exhibited vexation, reminding herself what she was about, and spoke in as pleasant a voice as she could command.

“Hello, Gus. I’m sorry I’m late. Was the food any good? The dancing is nice.”

“What does it matter about the food?” he snapped. Then he seemed to realize he was being testy. He watched the dancers a moment like he needed the time to rein in his frustration.

“Shall we join the circle?” he finally asked.

“I don’t really like dancing.” That wasn’t completely true. She’d liked it before. But she couldn’t see herself dancing ever again, not when she couldn’t even smile.

“You will dance with me.” The edge was back in his words. He tossed back his yellow hair.

They locked eyes. Jean struggled with her will and pride, trying to stamp them down and find a way to act like a submissive lover. Her father’s face floated into her mind, and her resolve rallied. She placed her hand on his chest.

“Okay,” she said, keeping her eyes fixed on his. A marriage to this one would be hellacious, she thought as he finally broke off his stare. He looked down, snatched up her hand, and led her into the revolving circles of dancers.

Jean’s heart wasn’t in the dance at all, and she blocked her feelings, deadening her emotions so she wouldn’t painfully remember the dances from her past that had been full of joy and laughter. She marked out the steps, spinning with MacKay, and then the other men in the circles as they came around, but her face remained set. She could not even pretend to smile.

After four dances, MacKay finally pulled her from the floor and led her to the side of the room where others were clapping along with the musicians and shouting out to the dancers. MacKay found a spot behind a group, next to a window, and he turned and took Jean’s upper arms into his hand and pulled her closer to him.

“Jean, I want you to be my wife. I will rule Balvenie for you. Laird Keith has given his blessing on this.

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