Her Highlander's Promise (13 page)

Her heart skipped a beat. Their eyes locked and she struggled to remain standing. It was as if they were the only two people on earth. Any uncertainty she might have about marrying Blair disappeared. She was meant to spend her life with him.

“If you’d like to go with me, that would be fine,” she stammered, finding it hard to form the words.

“Make sure that is all you are doing,” Lachlan said sternly.

Keenan trotted up beside them, grinning broadly. “Not to worry. I will go, too.” He stood between them, sliding on arm around Blair’s shoulder and the other around Laurel’s.

“That won’t be necessary, brother,” Blair snapped.

“I think it a fine idea. Maybe we should all go,” John chimed in. “It has been a long time since I’ve seen Angus.”

Chapter 21

Laurel stretched languorously, inhaling deeply, the scent of heather and fresh rushes filling her nostrils. Unable to ever remember waking in such a comfortable bed, she almost hated to get up. But today was her wedding day. And this time, when she went to the kirk, it was with a heart filled with love and hope for the future.

She slid to the edge of the pallet and dropped her feet over the side. Unlike the room she’d occupied for the last eight summers, the floor was warm, a fire still blazing in the hearth. Her uncle insisted she stay in her solar in the south tower, the one Deirdre had removed her from the day her father died.

When Laurel heard the sound of familiar voices in the hallway, she rushed to the door, then opened it before they had a chance to knock. “Elise, Mairi, please enter. It is a bonny morning, is it not?”

“Aye. A fine day,” Elise said with a broad smile. “Isla would have joined us, but she is still recovering. She will do her best to attend the ceremony.”

“I visited her last night and told her to rest,” Laurel replied.

Mairi carried a tray laden with food. “Are you hungry? I’ve brought you something to break your fast.”

“Please place it on the table by the bed,” Laurel said. “My stomach is all aflutter, so I’m not sure if I can eat, but will try.” She picked up a piece of cheese and popped it into her mouth.

“I dinna blame you for being excited. It isna every day a woman marries the man she loves. And such a braw one at that.”

“I still canna believe how things can change in the blink of an eye. Yesterday, I was dreading a marriage to Allan and thought my life was over. Today, Blair and I will wed, and I canna wait for my new life to begin. I only wish my parents could be here to share my happiness.” Despite her effort to hold them at bay, a tear tracked down her cheek.

“Your parents would be pleased with your choice.” Elise slid her arm around Laurel’s shoulder. “And while they canna be here in body, I believe they will be here in spirit.”

“Have you decided what you will wear?” Mairi asked. “Certainly not that hideous gown of Deirdre’s.” She cringed and shook her head.

“Nay, that garment will find its way to the trash. But she destroyed my mother’s gown, the one I’d hope to wear. It has been so long since I had anything new. Those I do own are plain and serviceable, but I am not sure any is suitable for the occasion.”

“Perhaps this will do,” Elise said as she opened a linen-wrapped bundle.

Laurel gasped and clutched her hand to her throat. “How lovely! Where on earth did you get it?”

“I know it isna you mother’s wedding dress, but this did belong to her. In fact, it was her favorite.” Elise held the emerald satin gown in the air. “The color even matches your eyes.”

“I was verra young when she died, so I dinna remember much about her clothing. Aside from the gown my father gave me as a keepsake, I thought the rest were lost or destroyed.”

“The day your mam passed, Laird Brandon asked me to fetch her wedding dress. When I inquired what he wanted me to do with the rest of her belongings, he told me to give them away. He loved Lady Katherine so much that he dinna want anything around that reminded him of her,” Elise explained.

“But you kept this?” Laurel clutched the garment to her breast.

“Aye. She once told me that she was wearing this on the day she met your da. She believed it was lucky, and planned to wear it on their wedding day. When you father commissioned the village seamstress to make her a new one, she dinna have the heart to disappoint him. So you see, this is a verra special gown indeed.”

Laurel stared at it. “I’m so glad you kept this, but I am a bit confused. You left on the night my mother died. You didn’t take dress with you, did you?”

Elise shook her head. “Nay, but I carefully tucked it away in a safe place before I left, hoping someday to return and present to you. I knew Lady Katherine would want you to have it. I saved a few other trinkets that your mam was fond of as well. I will bring them to you later.”

Laurel’s chest constricted with emotion. She turned to Mairi. “Could you do me a favor?”

“Aye, m’lady. Name it.”

“Please go to my room in the north tower and fetch something for me? On the left side of the hearth, there is a loose cornerstone. Pry it free. You’ll find a book and a wooden box hidden beneath.”

“I’ll go right away.” Mairi bobbed a curtsy and raced off.

“While she is gone, mayhap you could get dressed. Lord Blair and the guests are waiting for you.”

Laurel’s hands trembled as she stroked the soft fabric. When she closed her eyes, she could picture her mother wearing the dress, could almost smell her delicate lavender scent.

“Here, let me help you.” Elise took the gown and slid it over Laurel’s head, then fastened it in the back. She fussed with the skirt for a moment, before taking a step back. “A perfect fit. But I knew it would be. You are the image of your mother and every bit as beautiful.”

Laurel hugged her. “You have no idea how much your words mean to me. I can never thank you enough for this wonderful gift.” She smoothed her hands down the front of the garment.

“I have the items you asked for,” Mairi announced as she entered the room, then came to an abrupt halt. “Saints preserve me, but you are a vision. The most beautiful bride I have ever seen.”

“Thank you, Mairi.” She took the wooden box, opened the lid, then carefully plucked out her mother’s emerald pendant. “Will you help me put this on, Elise?”

“My pleasure, m’lady. I remember this gem. It was a gift to Lady Katherine from your grandmother. Rumor has it, the talisman has been passed down for many generations to the wife of the next MacClay laird. I am surprised Deirdre dinna snatch it up when she took over as mistress of the castle.”

“She tried.” Laurel caressed the amulet with her fingertips and smiled. “There were days she liked to turn the keep upside down searching for it, but I kept it well hidden.”

“What do we have here?” Mairi asked and lifted a carved silver ring from the box.

“A ring of intent. A gift from Blair on the day we met. I’ve kept it all these years.” She placed it on her finger. “He told me it belonged to his mam and wanted me to keep it as a token of his vow to see us wed when we came of age. We were bairns, and I never believed I would see him again, but held to it anyway.” She lifted her hand, admiring the way the sunlight made it shine.

“He’s a true Highlander, a man of his word, and about to make good on his promise.” Elise smiled. “That is, if you dinna keep him waiting. Best we fix your hair.”

After putting the finishing touches on Laurel’s appearance, Mairi placed a braided ring of heather on her head. “Beautiful.” She sighed.

“Can I ask you something of a delicate nature, Elise?” Laurel lowered her gaze and began to twist the ring around her finger. “It’s about the wedding night.”

“You can ask me anything, dear. What is it that brings a frown to your lovely face?”

“I love Blair with all my heart, but am afraid he might be disappointed when we join for the first time.”

Elise smiled and clasped Laurel’s hand. “All young ladies are uncertain the first time, but dinna fear—” she began, but a loud knock on the door interrupted her explanation.

“Aye, who is it?” Mairi asked.

“Angus. I wish to see Lady Laurel if I may.”

“Please, come in,” Laurel called as she padded to the door. When Angus entered, she threw her arms around his neck, kissing his cheek. “I am so pleased to see you. Are you well?”

“Aye, m’lady. Takes more than a few days in the pit to keep me down. But I dinna come here to discuss that. Your uncle asked me to escort you to the kirk.” Angus puffed out his chest with pride. “I was honored he picked me.”

“As am I. You know my uncle?”

“It has been many years, but I knew him well. I was verra happy to learn he was alive.”

“Of course you did. Being so close to my da, it stands to reason you would be friends with his brothers as well.”

“Your uncle would have come himself, but with his limitations, he finds climbing the stairs too difficult, so he prefers to wait for you in the kirk.”

“I understand and am blessed to have you accompany me.”

“Then let’s not keep the groom waiting any longer.” He offered her his arm. “Shall we go?”

Blair paced the small vestibule like a cornered animal. “Why is this taking so long?”

“Mayhap she came to her senses and changed her mind.” Keenan slapped Blair on the back, laughing.

“Best he learn you canna rush a woman. She will come when good and ready,” Ian added.

“How is it you are suddenly experts when it comes to women? Neither of you were married the last I checked. In fact, I canna say either of you have ever been in a committed relationship that lasted more than a day,” Blair countered.

“Your brothers jest, son. I am sure they speak out of envy and not expertise,” John Cameron said as he entered the room. “Laurel is a comely lass and any man would be proud to call her his wife. It isna often the youngest son marries before the older ones.”

“I dinna wish to marry the first lass I meet. I much prefer to sample the wares of many ladies before I make my choice,” Keenan boasted.

Ian shoved him. “The real reason you aren’t married is because no woman will have you.”

“You should talk.” Keenan pushed back, sending Ian crashing to the floor.

“Enough!” John glared at his sons. “Today is your brother’s wedding day. I’ll not have you acting like a pair of buffoons. Get up, Ian, and the two of you stop acting like unruly bairns.” He faced Blair. “Are you ready? The guests have gathered, and all we need now is a bride.”

Blair peered into the kirk and swallowed hard. He had never spoken before such a large crowd. He hoped he’d be able to recite his vows. He spotted Lachlan, sitting alone in a small alcove at the side of the kirk, not front and center as one would expect. “I still canna believe her uncle came back from the dead to stop the wedding.”

“It wasna easy for him. From what Robert tells me, this is the first time since his injury that he has made an appearance. I only recently found out he was still alive. But the king swore me to secrecy,” Blair’s father said.

“I dinna blame him for becoming a recluse. War changes a man, but when one suffers the way Lachlan did, it’s a wonder he dinna go mad.” James joined them.

“I sympathise with him, and in his position, I am not sure what I would do. But I did know Brandon, and he was devastated by the loss of his brothers. He would have welcomed the chance to see them again and to care for Lachlan,” John added.

“The priest is ready for you, Lord Blair,” the friar said, poking his head in the door.

John hugged his youngest son. “I am verra proud of you. You will make a fine laird. If you ever need anything, you know where to find me. I wish you and Laurel happiness.” He kissed Blair’s cheek, then released his hold. “Let’s get you married.”

“Good luck, brother. May you have many strong sons.” James thumped him on the back.

After receiving best wishes from his other two siblings, Blair strode into the kirk and took his place beside the priest. When a rumble of voices suddenly moved through the congregation, Blair turned. His heart stalled when he beheld Laurel standing at the door.

Chapter 22

Laurel waited at the entrance to the kirk with Angus by her side, nerves knotting her belly.
How foolish
, she thought. Yesterday she’d come perilously close to marrying Allan, doomed to a life of misery. Today, Blair stood before her, the man she’d dreamed about since the day they met. Soon they’d be joined as husband and wife. She should be elated.

While the idea of marriage wasn’t causing her uneasiness, the wedding night was entirely different. Despite Elise’s attempt to put her at ease, what transpired between a groom and his new bride beneath the pelts still gave her serious pause for concern.

She was four when her mam passed, and could never go to Deirdre with her questions. If she listened to the shocking stories bandied about the keep, a convent might be a favorable option.

“They’re waiting for you,” Angus said with a smile. “Blair Cameron is a verra lucky man. A lovelier bride I havena seen.”

“Thank you, Angus. I just hope I am making the right decision, and that Blair willna be disappointed,” she added softly.

“Impossible. Not only are you a stunning lass, but you have a heart filled with love and compassion. Any man would be proud to call you his wife.” He squeezed her hand. “Time to go.”

Laurel inched forward, then halted and searched the sea of faces. She noticed King Robert, John Cameron, and Blair’s three brothers sitting in the front row. But her uncle was nowhere to be seen.

Angus leaned in close. “If you’re hunting for Lachlan, he’s off to the side, by the vestibule. He told me crowds make him uneasy and he wished to remain as secluded as possible.”

Although she was thrilled to learn her uncle was alive and pleased he had remained for the wedding, seeing the cloaked figure sitting alone in the shadows proved bittersweet. Her heart ached for him. A broken man, he’d suffered so much during the war for Scotland’s independence, yet he left the comfort and privacy of his hideaway, revealing his disfiguring scars to the world in order to come to her aid.

“Unless you’ve changed your mind, best we proceed. The groom looks restless.” Angus nodded toward Blair. “There is still time to back out.”

She stiffened. Did she truly love him? The only times she’d been kissed by a man was when she and Blair reunited at the festival, the night he stole into her chamber, and again when he asked her to be his bride. She had nothing to compare her feelings to, but had to admit, she enjoyed each time immensely. Her body had reacted in glorious ways. And she couldn’t ignore the undeniable connection she felt on the day they met. When their eyes locked for the first time, it was as if he could see into her soul. If anything, the link between them grew stronger with every encounter. “Nay. I wish to marry Blair,” she finally responded, then moved forward.

“You steal my breath away,” Blair said when she joined him at the front of the kirk. He grasped her hand, then pressed his lips to her open palm.

Her pulse quickened. The caress of his warm, moist breath on her skin made her tingle from head to toe. For a moment, she thought she might faint.

“Ahem! Can this not wait until after we’ve finished?” the priest asked.

“Forgive me, Father. I was captivated by her beauty and lost my head,” Blair replied, but he never took his eyes off Laurel. “If my bride is ready, please proceed.”

Laurel nodded. “Aye.”

After binding their wrists together with a strip of MacClay plaid, the priest waited for them to kneel before he recited the first prayer. When he asked if anyone had reason to oppose the union, Laurel bit down on her lower lip to keep from voicing her own concerns.

Blair gazed into her eyes as he recited his vows and her doubts seemed to dissipate like the early morning dew on the moors. More certain than ever, she repeated her vows with equal enthusiasm.

“You may kiss your bride,” the priest announced amidst the cheers from those present.

Blair tugged her to her feet. He quickly released them from their bonds, encircled her waist with his strong arm, then held her firmly against his chest. With his free hand, he clasped the back of her head and allowed his thumb to trace her jawline. “You’ve made me the happiest man. You’ve filled a place in my heart reserved for only you.” He lowered his head, then lightly flicked his tongue over her waiting lips, before pressing his mouth to hers.

She swooned and clutched at his sleeve for support. When he finally eased back, she stared up at him. “I am the lucky one.”

Several musicians on bagpipes began to play a lively
piobaireach
.

John Cameron approached the couple. “As the groom’s father, it is my right to be the first to congratulate you both. May you have years of happiness and produce many strong sons. A grandson by next summer would make me a verra happy man.”

Within seconds, hoards of people rushed them, each offering best wishes, thumping Blair on the back, and wanting to kiss the bride. Amidst the fuss, Laurel craned her neck, searching for her uncle. When she spied him at the back of the kirk, about to leave, she broke free of Blair’s grasp, then ran toward him.

“Uncle, please wait.”

Lachlan reached the outside of the chapel before he stopped and turned to face her. He peeked out from beneath his hood, but remained silent.

“Were you planning to leave without saying goodbye?” she asked. She placed her hand on his forearm. “I am honored that you stayed for the ceremony. Must you go so soon?”

“The time has come. I’ve been away from my home far too long. I grow weary and wish to be on my way,” he replied. “Out of respect for your father, I felt it was my duty to remain until the union took place, but leave Clan MacClay in the capable hands of you and your new husband.”

“Now that you’ve returned, I hate to lose you again. I am sure in time you would find happiness here. We could send for Ann. She would be most welcome.” She clasped his right hand and pressed it against her cheek. “It would mean so much to me if you would at least consider my request.”

“You know that isna possible,” he answered simply. He eased his hand free, then cupped her chin. “I never had any bairns of my own, but if I had a daughter, I would want her to be like you. Your father had good reason to be proud. I have faith in you and Blair. But if ever you need anything or wish to visit, Robert will tell you where you can find me,” he said, then tugged his hood farther over his head, hiding his face from her sight.

“Laurel, why did you run off?” Blair asked as he exited the kirk.

She spun to face him. “I saw my uncle leaving and I wanted to beg him once more to . . .” When she turned around, Lachlan was gone. “He was here a minute ago.”

“I have no doubt.” Blair wrapped his arm around her shoulder, then kissed her cheek. “I know you hoped he might decide to stay, but he told us last night that he planned to leave. We were blessed he remained long enough to see us wed.”

“I prayed he’d change his mind.” She brought her hand up to catch a stray tear. “He is my father’s brother and my only living relative. I wanted to take care of him.”

“He isna the sort of man who needs a nursemaid. Let him go and wish him Godspeed. It is all any of us can do.” He brushed her damp cheek with his fingertips, then kissed the tip of her nose. “Come, we have guests and a
ceilidh
to attend. If my da and brothers have had a hand in the planning, it will be verra special.”

Blair underestimated his father’s influence with the clan. In Lachlan’s absence, he took it upon himself to make this a celebration no one would soon forget. With the aid of several clan members, John Cameron arranged for a feast that surpassed Laurel’s expectations. Musicians and jugglers entertained as tray after tray of meat, fish, vegetables, bread, fruit, and cheese was paraded into the great hall. Wine and ale were plentiful, mead and whisky abundant.

Blair filled a trencher to share with her, but she had no appetite. She fidgeted in her seat while she pushed a piece of roast venison around on her side of the platter, her fear about the wedding night resurfacing.

“Are you well?” Blair whispered.

“Aye. Why do you ask?” She peered up at him, doing her best to smile.

Blair clucked his tongue. “You appear distracted, even sad. Are you not happy? I hope you’re not having second thoughts about your decision to marry me,” he said as he gently swept a lock of hair from her forehead.

“I’m fine. A lot has transpired over the last few days, and I guess I am feeling a bit overwhelmed,” she replied, then glanced away.

“I asked if you were happy.” He cupped her chin, prompting her to look at him. “Maybe I’m wrong, but I think something is troubling you. I wish you would share what it is that spoils your mood.”

“If you must know, I am concerned about what will happen after the
ceilidh
ends.”

“I am sure the festivities will go on until the wee hours of the morning, even days if I know my brothers.” He chuckled.

Laurel frowned, the heat of embarrassment rising in her cheeks. “I’m not talking about the festivities,” she clarified. “I meant when we are alone in my parents’ chamber as man and wife.”

“There is no reason for concern, my love,” he replied so only she could hear.

“I have never shared a man’s bed, so I dinna know what to expect or how to please you. I fear you might be disappointed”

“That could never happen, my love.”

“I also heard that the elders must be present at our first joining. Is that true?” She tugged her lower lip between her teeth, to keep it from quivering. She fought back tears, but to no avail. “I dinna think I could bear to have them gawking at us. Even if it is tradition. I had shoved that concern to the back of my mind when Allan and I were to be wed, after he made it clear he was not interested in bedding me right away, if ever. And I prayed the marriage would never take place, that you would be back in time to stop it. And you were. But now we are wed . . . ” She sniffled.

Blair’s heart clenched. The sight of her crying brought about tender emotions, the need to comfort and protect her. “I willna let that happen. There is no reason for me or anyone else to question your virtue. In fact, your innocence, the knowledge that I will be your first and only lover makes it all the sweeter. As for our joining, I promise to be gentle and take things as slowly as you wish.” He kissed her knuckles one at a time, then stood, drawing her with him. “Dance with me.” He nuzzled her ear. “Please,” he murmured softly, then whisked her to the center of the room before she had a chance to protest.

“I . . . I never learned to dance,” she stammered.

“Then we must remedy that now. Follow me. I will show you the steps.” He spun her in a circle.

She giggled, then rested her cheek on his chest. “I am so embarrassed. Everyone is staring at us,” she whispered, then peered up at him and smiled. “I do wish to learn. I’m told my mother was a wonderful dancer.”

Despite her initial awkwardness, she was a quick study. Within minutes, he had her gliding across the floor as if she was born to dance.

After several turns around the room, he scooped her into his arms. “I think it is time to bid our guests farewell.”

She buried her face in his tunic, obviously discomfited by the cheers and comments about the wedding night as he carried her toward the door.

“Pay them no mind. They jest and dinna mean any harm,” he said to reassure her, and would have succeeded if not for two of the clan elders blocking their exit.

One of the men cleared his throat before he spoke. “As I’m sure you are aware, the joining must be witnessed. There can be no doubt the lass is a virgin and the marriage is consummated.

When Laurel raised her head, Blair saw the horrified expression on her face. “To hell with tradition. Get out of my way,” he demanded. He’d given her his word there would be no spectators and he meant to keep that promise.

“Is there a problem?” John Cameron asked as he strode toward them.

“I was just explaining that in order to make certain the lass’ maidenhead is intact, and that any prodigy of this union is that of the new laird, there must be at least two witnesses present,” the elder replied bluntly.

“I have no doubt about Laurel’s virtue, and am sure my son is equal to the task. Step aside and let them pass. There will be no intrusion on their first night together, or any other night,” John growled, then crossed his arms over his chest.

“But—” the elder began.

“I said move. Now.” John placed his hand over the hilt of his sword.

“It has been done this way for centuries,” the elder grumbled as he cleared the doorway.

“Then it is high time things changed,” John replied. “Best you see your wife to your chamber, son.” He patted Blair on the shoulder. “Your brothers and I will make sure you are not disturbed.”