She had not recognized him earlier, no doubt because she had never given him much attention in the past. So annoyed was she by everyone else’s reaction to him, she always avoided him. Now for the first time, she saw him.
Strong jaw, straight nose, firm lips and those damned eyes. Aye, the maids were right, he was handsome. Maybe too handsome, and she had no idea how to handle him or this confounding letter.
Nothing made any sense. Uncle had always treated everyone from the grandest lord to the lowliest servant with respect and honour. He must have felt a powerful connection to this man to entrust him with his estate—and her!
Gawain. He expected to inherit the estate. What would he think?
Aileana cleared her throat. “Lord MacIntosh, I appreciate your consideration. Your thoughtfulness does you great justice, to be sure. I believe before we proceed further you must know another expects to gain these lands and my hand.”
Aileana watched the muscle in his jaw flex.
“Please allow me to explain,” she said. “My cousin Gawain is entitled to this estate since Uncle’s passing and, in truth, when I entered this room earlier expected him seated where you were. Just as I assumed he was next in line, I am certain he does as well.”
“You are sure of this?” He leaned towards her. Too close.
She couldn’t think straight.
“I—I mean, who else knew of yours and Uncle’s arrangement?” How long had it been in place? Why had no one told her?
“My brother Calum, your steward, and your priest knew of this agreement. If what you say is true, and while it is unfortunate, your uncle changed his mind at some point.”
She gasped. He presumed to know her uncle’s mind? How dare he?
“I will speak to your cousin,” he said.
“No need, my lord. He’s my cousin and I will speak for my uncle’s wishes.” Her retort was a little harsher than intended, but no one would speak for Iain Chattan except her.
“Very well then. How do you wish to proceed?”
She didn’t know that or anything anymore. Still, he needed an answer.
“We will receive you three days hence. I expect that will provide me with enough time to speak with Gawain and prepare.” Her mouth seemed separated from her mind.
“For the betrothal ceremony?” His jaw slacked. Wasn’t that why he was here?
“It shall occur at the same time,” Aileana said. Regret stabbed her as soon as the words were past her lips.
“In three days then.”
She raised her hand to him on instinct when he stood. He held her fingers and placed a warm kiss on the back of her hand sparking tiny sensations up her arm. A moment later he was gone.
Someone, two people in fact, had a lot of explaining to do. But what if others knew as well. Gwen? That might explain her odd behaviour earlier. Gawain? That could explain his avoidance. Did everyone in the castle know about this except her?
She’d probe them soon enough. For now, she had to wrap her head around the letter. Her uncle must have left an accompanying one just for her explaining his request. She placed the letter on the desk and rummaged through it. An hour later, her hands were as empty as when she started.
* * *
James threw Arion’s leather reins at the stable hand and strode toward Moy Hall, muttering curses all the way. When in hell had a woman ever gotten under his skin like that? He knew when, but at least then he could blame youth and inexperience. Now, he had no excuse.
James was about to become attached in a very permanent way. He must be out of his wits to allow the situation to get this far. To say he had been surprised by her beauty was a gross understatement. Calum said she’d blossomed and he wasn’t mistaken. Far from it. Long flowing golden curls framed her flawless face offset by deep blue eyes and a pouty little mouth he wanted to taste. From his first vision of her, seated on the ground with dozens of wildflowers scattered about, he wanted her. He didn’t want to help her up, rather join her there and taste her sweetness.
Standing above her, he was drawn to the deep cleavage her square neckline revealed. His loins had tightened at the sight. Oh aye, he would have taken her right there on the roadside had she not walked away from him. Had she actually dismissed him? He was unused to that kind of reaction from anyone, much less a woman. Woman or no, he was in it deep enough now and he had no idea what to do about her.
Chapter Four
Aileana drew in a deep breath and returned to the great hall to reason out this latest troubling development. What logical motive could her uncle have for this union ? Money? Power? True, the MacIntosh was far wealthier than she, not to mention the most influential nobleman in the shire. Still, it was unlike her uncle to put much weight on such things regarding her happiness. Did he lack faith in Gawain’s ability to manage the estate and protect their tenants? If so, it made little sense. Her more immediate concern was how she’d break this news to him.