Tommy’s mother curtsied and said, “Forgive me, my lady, for the wrongs I have done you. The laird could not find a better lady to take as his wife.” She turned and curtsied to Alex. “We will be proud to have her as our lady, my laird.” Alex nodded before they turned and left.
Maddie stared at the two gifts in her lap. How long had it been since anyone had given her a gift? Brushing the moistness from her lashes, she jerked as the door opened again. The blacksmith and his family crossed over to Alex before bowing, “Forgive me, Laird, for my behavior. I should no’ have shunned your betrothed for something that was not her fault. She is a brave lady that will make you a fine wife.” He stepped forward, bowed to Madeline, and placed a long, thick rabbit pelt on her lap. “For your lap on the cold winter nights we have to keep your hands warm.” He bowed again as he and his family turned to leave.
Maddie forced a weak “Thank you, sir,” as she fought her tears.
Jennie clapped as she looked at the gifts. “You see, Maddie, I knew they would like you when they knew you better!”
And the line continued…
Another pelt from the tanner.
A sleek jeweled dagger from the man in the armory.
Maddie’s tears flowed freely at this point. But she always managed a smile and a polite “thank you” for each one. There were so many, she lost track. Some were there just to thank her for saving the wee ones. Others apologized for misjudging her. Her gifts filled the table.
A bouquet of fresh flowers.
Hand embroidered cloths for the tables.
Strawberry scented candles.
A jar of honey.
Blueberry pastries.
Apple tarts.
Apple bread.
A beautiful shawl.
A pair of beaded slippers.
Embroidered chair cushions.
Embroidered linen squares.
But the last gift was for wee Jennie.
“A new puppy?”
It was from Emma’s father, “For always watching out for the wee ones, Jennie.”
Jennie jumped up and down before cuddling her new puppy in her arms.
“I had no idea. All these gifts are beautiful!” Maddie exclaimed.
“My clan is made of good people. They do get confused at times, but they are good, honest, hard working people.” Alex’s eyes shone with pride as he gazed at her.
“Alex, did you tell them they had to apologize to me?”
“No,” he kissed her cheek. “Had I thought of it, I would have. But I was too busy worrying about you and Jennie.”
CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE
The number of days before the wedding dwindled. In just a few days, Maddie would be Alex’s wife. Despite Alice’s ranting and raving, Alex went to Maddie’s chamber every night and hauled her down to his own, returning her before dawn. Maddie found she did not mind at all. Actually, she had grown accustomed to falling asleep in his arms since he was very warm and she knew it was the safest place for her.
At first, she was afraid that he would try something improper, but other than a few kisses, he behaved like a proper gentleman. Truth be known, she was becoming quite fond of his kisses and actually ached for them at times. But she never let him know. At least now she didn’t panic over the thought of their wedding night. She knew the bedding would take place, but she trusted Alex. Even thought it might hurt, she knew in her heart he would never humiliate or hurt her continuously. Once would probably be enough for Alex, or so she hoped.
Maddie and Brenna labored in the vegetable garden harvesting what they could for the wedding when they heard a commotion at the gates. They strolled down in time to see Father MacGregor dismounting from his horse.
“Father, is it really you?” Maddie cried.
“Och, my child, are you no’ a beautiful lass!” he shouted in his generally boisterous way. “How long since I have seen you, lass? And what has happened to your arm?”
“At least two years, Father. I promise to tell you about my arm later. But I must know, why did you leave us?”
Father MacGregor put his arm around Madeline’s shoulder. “Maddie, your stepbrother bid me to stay away. I cannot believe he would speak to a man of the cloth as he did, but it didn’t bother him. I knew your people needed me more than ever once your parents were both gone, but he was quite clear with his threats. I did not wish to endanger any of you or any of my faith. But, lass, why are you here?”
They turned to make their way toward the steps of the castle.
“Because I am betrothed to Alex, I mean, Laird Grant. He has asked me to be his wife and I have accepted.”
“Och, that is wonderful news. I am so glad to hear that you are away from that cruel man. But were you no’ already betrothed?” Father MacGregor looked at her with a puzzled look.