Highland Hope by Madelyn Hill

Author:Madelyn Hill [Hill, Madelyn]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Highland
Published: 2016-08-31T04:00:00+00:00

Aye, Aidan thought with a rueful smile, Hope had done well in keeping the clan in order and even better at using God-given resources to ensure there was always enough food stores.

Aidan stopped before he entered through the stone palisade. Turning, he glanced at the river, conscious of being watched and wondering who felt he needed supervision. Despite what the council or Hope thought, he’d not be leaving.

A calm blanketed him, as he sensed ’twas not danger lurking in the shadows. How he knew this, Aidan wasn’t certain, but natural instinct would have warned him if treachery was afoot. One quick glance at the shrubbery lining the river and Aidan entered the keep and was greeted by a decorated bailey.

Flags draped along crofters and the main entrance to the hall, colorful arrays of the clan’s badge and that of their Sept clans. There were areas marked with oaken barrels and banners indicating the game to be contested in that area. Aidan noted the sword arena, archery range, and grappling location, all part of his repertoire. And he had a feeling Duncan’s as well.

If he did well, he’d be married by week’s end. The idea startled him, but not for the reason he’d assumed. Could he possibly be looking forward to the wedding?

Duncan paraded before him, all bluster and brawn.

Aidan hadn’t missed the blatant challenge of the man’s glare, or the numerous times he’d found Duncan behind him as he moved through the day. Sometimes the man would speak to him, others he’d merely remain silent. Since his power was limited at the moment, Aidan decided to ignore the taunts about how he’d best him in the ring.

Nay, Aidan knew he was safe as long as he wed Hope. Not that he was a coward, but he knew none would seek him out with such notions as killing him. If he’d refused to marry Hope, the council could have murdered him in the cell.

And he wanted to stay alive at the moment.

Although he loathed a woman with power, a woman who used her power over men, he’d rather infiltrate the clan beneath the cloak of her protection. With such he’d be able to reach his goal and that meant he’d be offering protection.

Nodding hello to Emma and her friends, Aidan stopped and watched them for a moment before proceeding. She was a lovely lass, brave too. He’d have several like her if he had any say in the matter. Bidding good day to the group, Aidan strode across the bailey and into the main hall. First he’d need sustenance, then to change into appropriate clothing for such festivities.

Although Hope was calling it a contest, the clan had gotten swept away with the idea of a four-day event. Food, dancing, and games created the hum of excitement even Aidan couldn’t ignore. In fact, he was beginning to warm to the idea of a contest. ’Twould be good for the clan to see him fighting to prove his worthiness of their laird. A fact Hope had been telling each and every person she passed.

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