Binding Vows(49)
Catherine Bybee
some women do as well.” She thought of her sister and her years of peril raising a child on her own.
“Every time can mean you will…well, become with child. So you want to be with someone worthy of being a father to your children.”
Myra squeezed her hand, and acknowledged her advice. “But, when you wanted more, it was wonderful? Right?”
Smiling, Tara flopped back on her bed. “Honey, you have no idea.”
****
They were finishing up the first meal of the day. Cian had already left the table, anxious to train with the men. Amber went to see if one of the expectant cats had given birth during the night.
“Well, brother,” Fin said. “What will you do with this day since you have to rest your injuries?” He slid a smirk in Tara’s direction.
“My injuries are not so great I can’t join you. It seems I owe you.” In more ways than one.
“Are you sure you wouldn’t want to rest?” Fin tilted his head toward Tara.
Duncan debated his answer.
Ian saved him the trouble. “I have need of you for another task, Duncan,” Ian told him. “It seems the widow and Haggart are once again fighting.”
“Not again,” Myra said. “Seldom has a day gone by where they don’t have trouble. I’ve noticed their rife increasing since her daughter married.”
“I’m told Haggart’s dog trampled her garden, destroying her food supply. I need you to see if she has any claim. If so, see he compensates her accordingly.”
Disappointed about not spending the day with Tara, Duncan sighed. “I’ll see it done.”
He was ready to leave the table when his father’s next comment stopped him.
“Take Tara with you,” Ian said and turned his 144
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focus to Tara. “I don’t believe you’ve been to the village, lass. You’re sure to enjoy the experience.
Take Myra’s mare. The ride will do you good.”
“Oh,” Tara said in alarm. “I—I don’t know how to ride.”
Looks of disbelief came at her from all directions. “Other than riding along with Duncan, I have never been on a horse.”
“Then today will be a wonderful adventure for you. Myra’s is the most gentle among our mares.
Duncan is an excellent horseman. He can teach you.”
“What a lovely idea, Ian. I can’t wait to see more of Scotland.”
Ian took her hand. “You’ll love our land.”
“I’m sure I will and Myra, you won’t mind me taking your horse?”
Myra waved away her concern. “Nay, Meg will treat you well.”
Tara turned to Duncan, “And you, you’re sure you won’t mind me tagging along?”
“’Tis my pleasure.”
How much pleasure? Tara wondered with a secret smile.
“You’ll need a cloak,” Myra said. “In case the weather turns before your return. Come with me.
We’ll find you one.” Myra tugged on her arm, laughing.
145
Catherine Bybee
Chapter 13
Within the hour Tara stood in front of Myra’s horse. The massive animal had a beautiful chestnut coat with a tuft of white on her nose. She was calm, quiet, and huge. One of the stable hands tossed a small saddle over the blanket placed across her broad back as Tara watched.
Myra did the introductions. “Meg, this is my friend, Tara. Now, I have told her of your sweet disposition, so don’t make me a liar.” Myra turned to Tara. “She really is quite calm. I’m sure you’ll be able to handle her well enough.”
Tara wasn’t so sure. Maybe she should ride with Duncan on Durk. It would be easier than riding Meg alone.
“Horses can sense when you’re afraid.” Duncan led his mount toward the women. “Let the horse know who you are, and that you are the master.”
“I don’t feel much like a master.” Tara sent him a wry look. “And I’m scared to death.”
He handed his reins to a squire who stood by.
“Here,” he took Tara’s hand, and placed her palm on Meg’s nose. “This way she can smell you and become familiar with you.” He leaned in, sniffed her hair and sent a shot of awareness through her body.
“Ahh, lass, like roses.”
His attention brought a flush to her face.
“I see I’m no longer needed here.” Myra’s face turned red. “Have a wonderful ride.”
Tara choked on a laugh. The word ride had so many meanings, and with Duncan sniffing her hair, 146
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it was hard to keep her mind on the horse instead of on erotic thoughts about him
Myra’s eyes grew large. She laughed a nervous little sound and covered her smile with her hand. “I mean time... Have a wonderful time.”