Her Highlander's Promise (9 page)

“Aye. I can sit a horse and ride as well as any man,” she replied proudly.

“Good. While you speak with your husband, I will ask the laird for the loan of a sturdy mount. I dinna mean to rush you, but we must leave as soon as possible.”

Elise nodded. “I understand. Once I speak to my husband and throw a few items of clothing into a sack, I will meet you in the bailey.” She turned, then hurried down the hall.

“How did you fare?” Alasdair asked Blair as he entered the Bailey.”

“She has agreed to return with me to Thistledown Castle.”

Alasdair frowned. “Permanently? Her home is here now.”

“That will be up to Elise. She left Clan MacClay not of her own choice, but because she suspected the current mistress poisoned Lady Katherine.”

The chieftain gasped. “Och! If the woman is guilty of murder, she must pay the price. Elise should have come forth at the time.”

“Deirdre used Elise’s mother and son as a means to get her to cooperate. She told Elise that if she ever spoke of it or returned, her kin would suffer.”

“I canna believe she has gotten away with this heinous crime for so long.”

“No one dared challenge her before now. Those who were brave enough, like Elise, were banished, their loved ones threatened. We have reason to believe she poisoned Laird MacClay as well.”

“I refuse to let you go, Elise. You’re my wife and your place is here. I demand you give up this foolish notion and dinna stir up trouble,” her husband said, then grabbed her wrist, halting her advance.

Elise tugged free of his grip. “I have remained silent far too long. The time has come for me to tell what I know, and I refuse to change my mind. Ordering me to stay, willna make it so.”

“Elise is right,” Alasdair said. “I know it is difficult, but you must let her go.”

“We are in need of a horse,” Blair said, hoping to speed things along. “Time is passing quickly and we must be away.”

“Take your pick of any animal in the stable. The squire will see it saddled and ready to leave,” the laird replied.

“I have another boon to ask,” Blair said.

“Name it.”

“Elise is concerned about the safety of her mother. I need to get a message to my brothers. I will tell them we are on our way, but in the interim, I want them to find her mother and protect her until we arrive. If necessary to stall the wedding.”

“I will send my speediest messenger. Pen the note and I will summon him immediately.” Alasdair then called for the castle steward.

The message sent, the horses saddled and supplies gathered, Blair and Elise were ready to depart. “This willna be an easy journey. We must make haste, only stopping long enough to rest and water the horses,” he informed the maid.

“I understand.” She kissed her husband, then mounted.

“Good luck and God’s speed,” Alasdair said, then offered his arm to Blair.

After exchanging a shake, he climbed into the saddle and waved goodbye. “I am truly grateful for your help, Elise. I just hope we are not too late.”

Chapter 15

A cool breeze caressed Laurel’s cheek. She snuggled beneath a length of plaid. She didn’t want to wake up, not yet. Lost in a euphoric fog, visions of Blair filled her mind. His strikingly handsome features, his tall, well-muscled body glistening in the glow of firelight as he summoned her to his side, his raven hair hanging loosely about his broad shoulders. His mischievous smile melted her heart.

But it was more than his appearance, the way he looked at her, or the fact he was an amazing kisser that captured her heart. She sensed from the moment they met, there was something special about Blair, and the immediate bond they felt for one another was undeniable. He put her at ease and he made he made her smile. She could imagine laying with him until the wee hours of the morning, talking about anything that came to mind. She believed he genuinely cared about what she had to say. He treated her with respect and made her feel wanted and adored. He had proved himself to be a man of his word, brave, and selfless, putting others before himself, and was willing to stand up for what he believed in. Blair was everything a woman could hope for in a husband.

But after eight summers passed with no word, she resigned herself to the probability she would never see him again, and managed to put him out of her mind. But now they’d been reunited, he was all she could think about. Oh, how she longed to be held in his arms again, to feel the sweet press of his lips . . .

“Lady Laurel? May I come in?”

Fighting the effects of the Belladonna, she struggled to open her eyes. When she finally managed to sit, her head felt as if it were stuffed with lamb’s wool. She licked her dry lips and swallowed several times, but didn’t answer. Mayhap if she remained silent, Mairi would leave and she could return to the solace of her dreams.

“Lady Laurel! Please answer me. The mistress bid me fit you for your wedding gown.”

She heard the urgency in the maid’s voice and knew she would have to answer to Deirdre if her assigned task were not completed. The last thing her evil cousin needed was another well-meaning servant to add to her list of victims.

“I come anon.” Laurel slid to the edge of the pallet, then dropped her legs over the side.

When she stood, she stumbled, but used the bedside table to steady herself. She groaned. While the herb Deirdre added to her drink was not enough to kill her, there was a sufficient amount to keep her quiet. Moments after her cousin dragged Isla away, the herbs took effect. She scarcely had time to reach her pallet before she collapsed.

“How long did I sleep?” She staggered to the door, inhaled deeply, then pressed her forehead against the polished wood. “Come in, Mairi.” She heard the lock click and stepped backward, making way for the maid to enter.

“I’m sorry to disturb you, m’lady, but the mistress insisted I do your fitting before the evening meal. She said it couldna wait.” Mairi carried the violet garment and a basket brimming with sewing supplies.

“The evening meal? I dinna realize it was so late. I—” Suddenly feeling faint, she grabbed the maid’s arm for support.

“Och, m’lady, your face is so pale. Are you ailing?” She dropped what she carried, then encircled Laurel’s waist. She escorted her to a chair near the hearth, then waited for her to sit.

“I’m fine. I was napping before you came and must have gotten up too quickly. I became dizzy is all, so please dinna
fash
.” She did her best to reassure Mairi, but could tell by the maid’s frown that she’d failed in her attempt.

“You should eat more. I know you are anxious about your upcoming nuptials, but you must take care of yourself. If it pleases you, I will run down to the kitchen and fetch you some food and drink.”

“Your concern touches me, but that willna be necessary. I just need a minute to collect myself.” She clasped Mairi’s hand. “Please stay.”

Mairi nodded, then went to retrieve the gown and sewing basket. “Maybe I should let you rest and return in a while. I can see to this later.”

“Nay. I dinna need to rest. We will do this now.” She saw no point in putting off the dreaded task and did not want to give Deirdre a reason to be upset.

She placed the basket on the table, then handed the garment to Laurel. “I know you said you were fine, but one thing bothers me and has for some time.”

“What might that be?” Laurel asked as she donned the gown.

“Why does the mistress insist your door be kept locked? One would think you are a prisoner and not the next lairdess of the clan.”

Taken aback by the question, Laurel hesitated before offering an answer. Had Isla told Mairi more about their suspicions than she admitted?

“I dinna understand the reasons for many of the things Deirdre does. Mayhap she is afraid I will run away and leave her son standing alone before the priest.” She decided to make light of the inquiry.

For a moment, she considered telling her the truth, even contemplated asking the maid to help her escape, but did not want to involve another person in her troubles. She was very close to proving that her parents were murdered by her cousin, so felt it best to remain quiet a little longer.

“I canna say I would blame you. Lord Allan isna a handsome man or someone I see as a suitable husband for you. I canna say I envision him married to any woman,” Mairi said, then quickly covered her mouth with her hand. “Forgive me, m’lady. I meant no—”

“I know you jest, Mairi, and meant no disrespect. But I have to agree with you for the most part,” Laurel said, smiling.

Mairi made a few tucks in the gown, then measured the length. “Are you sure this is what you wish to wear on the day you wed? Even with some mending, it will be too large and far from flattering.”

“Nay, this wasna my first choice. I had hoped to wear my mother’s gown, but since that is no longer possible, it is Deirdre’s wish that I wear hers.” The bitter words caught in her throat. She’d never forgive her cousin for ruining her treasured possession.

“Have you seen Isla today?” Laurel was afraid to ask, but had to know if Deirdre followed through with her punishment.

Mairi dropped her gaze. “I guess you dinna hear the news. Isla received a flogging earlier this afternoon. The mistress dinna explain why, but made it clear that she had gone against her wishes and meant to show anyone who dared defy her that she’d not tolerate disobedience.”

Laurel’s heart plummeted. “How badly was she hurt?” she asked on a strangled breath. “Please, tell me.”

“She received ten lashes. Poor thing passed out after the second one. But the mistress insisted on the full number she’d decreed.” Mairi shook her head. “She forced the rest of the servants to watch. It was horrible.”

Laurel sat hard on the end of her pallet. She fisted her hands in the covers, while doing her best to tamp down the anger twisting her gut. She hated Deirdre and couldn’t wait until she could finally confront her, see her arrested, and put an end to her reign of terror.

“What of Angus? Has he been released from the pit?”

“Not that I’ve heard. As far as I know, he is still a prisoner. The mistress has no heart. Even her husband fears her.”

“Is that so?” Deirdre stomped into the chamber. “I sent you to mend a gown, not to discuss my marital relationship behind my back. Mayhap you would like a taste of what Isla got today.”

“Oh no, m’lady. I meant no disrespect.” Mairi dropped to her knees before Deirdre.

“She has done nothing to deserve the lash.” Laurel stood and faced her cousin.

“She has a loose tongue in need of silencing.”

“You came in halfway through the conversation and only heard a small part. Mairi is a loyal maid, and if anything, she was defending you. I was the one who spoke out of turn against you. She was merely repeating what I said.” She moved to where the maid knelt, then helped her to stand. “So if you must direct your anger at anyone, do so at me.” She lifted her chin in defiance.

Mairi continued to stare at the ground as she wound a stray strand of her hair around her finger.

After taking a moment, Deirdre asked. “Have you finished taking your measurements?”

“A—aye, m’lady,” Mairi replied, her voice trembling.

“Then take the gown and be off with you. See to the alteration, then return to your duties.” Deirdre pointed to the door. “Leave while I am feeling generous.”

Laurel was not sure her cousin knew the meaning of the word, but refrained from commenting.

Mairi nodded, then waited for Laurel to remove the garment. “I’m so sorry,” she whispered.

Laurel smiled, handed Mairi the dress, then patted her forearm. “No harm done. I’ll see you after.”

“Leave!” Deirdre marched to the door, then threw it open.

The servant curtsied. “If there is nothing else, m’lady.”

“Get out, now,” Deirdre growled, then slammed the door behind her. She faced Laurel, a sneer twisting her features. “The servants are none of your affair. They are mine to discipline as I see fit.”

“Anything that has to do with any member of Clan MacClay
is
my concern,” Laurel countered. “I care deeply about each and every one of them.”

“You best mind your tongue or I’ll—” Deirdre began.

Pushed to the limit, Laurel glared at her cousin. “You’ll what? Lock me in my chamber? Have me starved or beaten? See me betrothed to your pathetic excuse for a son, condemned to a loveless, marriage? You forget, you have already done all of those things and many more, not only to me, but to my friends or anyone who dares to stand up to you.” Laurel stiffened. “I’m surprised you dinna have another cup of mead that you wish to force down my throat. You will . . .” Laurel stopped mid-sentence, fearing she’d already said too much.

Deirdre’s expression darkened as she took a menacing step forward. “How dare you speak to me in that tone? You’ve become awfully bold these last few days. For someone who until now has shown no sign of a backbone, to behave in such a disrespectful way prompts me to think there is something afoot.”

Laurel took a deep breath before she responded. “How could there be anything afoot? Since the day my father died, you have kept a tight rein on me.”

Deirdre didn’t respond.

Laurel continued. She had nothing to lose at this point. “You’ve selected when and to whom I’m allowed to speak, and have decided when it would be beneficial for me to be seen in public. You stuck me in this dreadful chamber, away from all I knew and loved, but were clever enough to fool the clan into thinking all was well.”

Her cousin glared. “If you know what’s good for you, you’ll temper your tongue.”

“I’m tired of remaining silent. One mistake I’ve made and it is time I rectified it.”

“You haven’t the gumption to do anything of the sort. Just like your mother,” Deirdre replied, then laughed.

Laurel balled her fists and stood toe-to-toe with Deirdre. She’d come too far to back down now. “I am proud to be like my mother. What you saw as a helpless lass, afraid to stand up for herself, was a devoted daughter, keeping a promise made on her father’s deathbed, a vow that I would honor you and Murray. That is the reason I have never shown you any resistance or challenged your authority.”

“Excuses with no merit,” Deirdre hissed. “Your father made Murray your guardian. A responsibility he doesna take lightly. It is up to us to see you are raised properly.”

“If my father had any idea of the deplorable way you’d treat me and the servants, he’d never have made the request.”

Tears burned her eyes, but Laurel refused to let them fall. “You have forbidden me to tell the truth for so long, lest you punish me or those I loved, that I am not sure what fact is anymore.” She sat on the end of her pallet. “So for you to think there is anything afoot, would be foolish, if not impossible.”

To Laurel’s surprise, Deirdre stared back at her, with her mouth gaping open, a look of utter surprise on her face.

After a few minutes of uncomfortable silence, Deirdre spoke. “I will send Mairi back for a final fitting after the evening meal. I will have Andrew bring you a tray. See that you eat everything, then retire early. The guests have already started to arrive for the wedding and the priest will be here before noon. By this time tomorrow, you and Allan will be wed. We will discuss this little outburst at that time.” She turned and stormed out.

Laurel’s stomach sank. What had she done? The angst caused by her cousin’s failure to react left her feeling even more uncertain of her fate than ever.