That was exactly why he was so determined to go. He dearly wished he could have spoken to Fergus, if for a moment. Any discussion with him would require the king’s approval—not an easy acquisition.
He slowed his pace while Calum caught up with him again and took note of his surroundings. They were almost at Chattan Castle. He couldn’t wait to see how she would face all who would be waiting. He glanced down at her relaxed countenance, avoiding the angry red marks on her wrists.
* * *
“You’re almost home.” His breath tickled the delicate skin beneath her ear. His deep voice roused her and she became aware of his firm thighs and the thick chest muscle cradling her head.
Her body flooded with warmth. She opened her eyes and discovered they were almost home. The familiar road had never looked so good. Conscious of her casual position in front of James, she straightened her back, trying not to lean on him.
“No need to move away, lass. I don’t think anyone will be concerned about how much you’ve warmed up to me once they learn of our ordeal.” His voice was a husky whisper.
Her face grew hot at his meaning and she was thankful for her long tresses hanging around her face. In her semi-awake state she forgot the peril she’d encountered mere hours before and had taken wanton comfort in the MacIntosh’s arms. He had saved her after all. Still, some decorum was in order.
“I realize I haven’t yet thanked you, my lord, for my rescue.”
Aileana turned her head to the side to glance up at him and noted how much he towered over her even seated. Her heart skittered along in an insane drumbeat inside her chest.
“Your rescue indeed, my lady. ’Tis my hope you’ll find a way to thank me for my services and my discretion.” His tone was no longer husky, it held a warning.
“Your discretion?” What did he suggest? “My lord, I’m certain I have nothing to hide.” Her chin shot up and her back straightened to the point of cracking.
“Oh aye, I’m certain we’ll come to an understanding.” He smirked and looked ahead as if to dismiss her. “No one need know of your treachery just yet.”
“Just what are you implying?” Her fists clenched. She had no intention of repaying him with any sort of ‘services’ as he put it, or his discretion. She had nothing to be discrete about! Her cheeks burned again, but with anger this time not desire. Before she could recover, her clansmen spewed from the castle. Aileana had been so absorbed in him, she didn’t realize he’d brought her right to the front door.
James dismounted in one fluid movement and reached up to help her down before she could swat his hands away. His firm fingers tightened around her waist, and for a moment he stared hard into her eyes, as if searching into her soul. Infuriated and semi-aroused, she was powerless under that gaze. She shuddered to think where that could lead her and was grateful for the people who descended upon them.
Father Addison was the first to greet them. Behind him was Aunt Sheena who motioned for Gwen’s assistance. Together, they ushered her inside the castle’s protective stone walls. Once in her chamber, Sheena and Gwen couldn’t do enough for her comfort. While they prepared her bath, servants arrived with a large platter of roasted chicken, bread, cheese and a pitcher of warm mead. When she had devoured most of it, she recounted her story to the two women.
“Aileana, love, you do realize who was behind it all.”
“I do not. I assume there will be an investigation. I would not want to fear monger, however, one man wore a MacKay crested brooch.” Her body shuddered with the realization she was lucky to be alive.
“Aye, there might be MacKay involvement, but I can tell you with certainty your cousin Gawain, the foul man, was also involved. I saw him leaving early this morning.” Sheena crossed her arms over her chest.
“How is that possible? Gawain would do me no harm.” Gawain? Did this have something to do with the MacIntosh’s evasive accusation?
“My lady, please do not gag me any longer on that man and his intentions,” Gwen said.
“Gwen, what is it you wish to say?”
“That he was behind the whole thing and meant to hurt you because of your uncle’s plan to marry you to the MacIntosh.”
“I know you have never liked him, but do you believe him capable of intending harm?” There was no doubt Gawain was different, but was he so bad?
“I believe it with my whole heart and have watched him over the months since his return.” Gwen paced and fisted her hands at her sides. “He slithers in and out of the castle like a snake.” She stopped. “I know of a kitchen maid who lives not far from here who had the unfortunate bad luck to encounter him one night at a tavern in Moy.” Gwen swallowed hard. “She was beaten so bad she couldn’t work for a fortnight.”