Chapter 17
Three days later, while practicing with his men for the coming battle to reclaim Breacachadh, Lachlan had his answer.
Im sorry, my laird, Allan said, standing before him, his face streaked with dirt and sweat. Lachlan knew hed just arrivedthe smell of the moors and wind still clung to him.
Disappointment sank through him like a rock. The rescue hadnt worked. What happened? he asked, steeling himself for the worst.
Everything went as planned. Hugh made it past the guards and smuggled in the rope to John. We were waiting for him in the birlinn below the tower as he started his descent. He was about halfway down when all hell broke loose. Hed been seen. We waited as long as possible and barely escaped without being captured ourselves.
They were fortunate in that. It might be suspected who was behind the rescue, but at least it couldnt be tied directly to him.
And John? His hands clenched. What happened to my brother?
They pulled the rope back up. We feared they might let him go and the fall would have killed him.
Thank God. He could have been the cause of his brothers death. I dont understand how this could have happened. John was supposed to descend on the side opposite the watchtowerwhere no one could see him.
He was. We found out later a guard on watch left his post to relieve himself. He happened to look up and noticed a movement.
Lachlan clenched his jaw. He couldnt believe that their plan had worked only to be foiled by a man who couldnt hold his piss.
He could tell by Allans expression that there was more. Lachlans fingers tightened around the hilt of his claymore. What else?
Allan met his gaze. Our man inside the castle did as instructed if something went wrong and found us in the village of Kinneil near the port. He paused. John has been taken to the pit.
Lachlan swore, tossing down his sword before he flung it out to sea in frustration. His brother had been moved from the tower to the pit prisona place usually reserved for lowborn criminals. Blackness Castle had a particularly macabre feature. At high tide, the water from the sea poured through a grate, filling the bottom of the pit with icy water.
John wouldnt last a week.
He wouldnt have to. Lachlans fear of losing Flora had made him grasp at any straw. And now hed made it worse. He hardened his heart and knew his options had just run out. He needed Argyll. Flora would have to understand that he had no choice.
Marriages were arranged all the time; theirs was no different. Except they were luckier than most, for theyd found love in the bargain. He loved her. That was all that mattered. No matter how it came to be.
Lachlan caught her in the lairds solar from behind as he had beforeexcept this time he did not leave anything to Floras imagination. After three nights of making love to him for hours on end, her body immediately filled with liquid heat.
The days had spun by in an excited whirl and the nights steamed in passion. But as the day of the wedding drew closer, there seemed to be almost a desperate edge to their lovemaking, as if the fire that consumed them both might burn out of control. Tender and slow or rough and wild, it didnt matter. Flora couldnt get enough of him.
His strong hands clasped her around her waist. She felt the granite wall of his chest against her back. Being surrounded by all that muscle and the warm masculine scent never failed to make her breath catch.
She could feel the warmth of his breath at her ear, and she closed her eyes, allowing the familiar tingling sensations to wash over her as her body opened like a flower at his touch. He cupped her breasts and slid hot kisses down her neck. She stretched against him, savoring each exquisite sensation that he wrought from her as his hands moved over her body in swift possession.
The rock-hard press of his erection at her bottom sent a shiver of desire running straight between her legs. The sensual haze descended around her, blocking out everything but the touch, the feel of the man behind her. She was aware of every movement, every press of his finger, every breath, every beat of his heart. He nudged her again, and she pressed her bottom against him, teasing him right back.
She felt him work the ties of his trews, and then the cool air hit her legs as he lifted her gown over her hips. Leaning her slightly forward so that she could rest her hands on the wooden cabinet against the wall, he spread her legs.
She could barely stand, so strong was her need for him. She could feel her own dampness gathering between her legs. She throbbed, so ready for him, she wondered if she would last before he could
Oh God. She groaned as she felt the heavy head of his erection sliding against her, setting off wave after wave of shaking desire. He was so wonderfully thick and hard, and she wanted him inside her. She arched her back, trying to catch him. But he was merciless, rubbing against her until shed already started to shatter, until the sharp spasms rocked her hard against him. Only then did he slowly push himself inside.
The feeling was incredible. She felt so full, holding him tight between her thighs. But she wanted him deeper. She bent a little more and lifted her bottom higher to accommodate him.
He swore.
She smiled, did it again, and all teasing was gone. Taking her hips, in one smooth motion he guided himself fully inside her, filling her to the hilt as he started to pump. He loosened her gown so he could cup her breasts.
He sank into her faster and faster until Flora thought she was going to explode.
Oh God, Im going to come, he said tightly.
She loved when he was like this, out of control with need for her. When he told her exactly what he was going to do to herin every wicked detail.
He did it right now, whispering in her ear with his rough, ragged voice as his hand slipped between her legs, pressing her most sensitive spot, sending her over the edge again, just as he started to explode inside her.
Lachlan slid his hand down her naked breast, lingering on the precious tip as the last vestiges of their shared climax ebbed.
He hadnt meant to take her so roughly. Indeed, hed sought her out for another reason altogether. But Allans news had shaken him, and hed needed the soul-cleansing balm of her love.
Sliding out of her, he leaned forward to whisper in her ear again. I have a surprise for you.
She took a moment to collect her breath, before turning to face him. Another one like that?
Jade. Though he wished divining new ways of making love to her were all he had to worry about. The failed rescue and his brothers fate in the pit haunted him. In his effort to avoid hurting Flora, hed made the situation worse. He knew he had to go through with his original plan, but knowing didnt make it any easier.
Sometimes, like right now, with her eyes bright with happiness as she looked at him as if he were some kind of heroic knight in shining armor, it hurt just to look at her. Her innocent happiness ate at him. More than once, it had been on the tip of his tongue to tell her everything about his brother and the bargain hed made with her cousinusually at moments like this in the afterglow of their shared passion, when it seemed their love was the most indestructible. But no matter how many times he made love to her over the past few days, he still he couldnt be sure of her reaction. Her natural stubbornness coupled with her unreasonable fear of ending up like her mother were wild cards. And he couldnt risk his brothers life or the safety of his clan, not when it was in his power to do otherwise.
So the frustration and anger built inside him. Some of which, he knew, was coming out in his lovemaking. Like now, when he took her hard and rough in a maelstrom of reckless need. He knew she sensed it, not understanding what drove him to such extremes of passion. All too soon, she would know why.
He brushed a golden wisp of hair from her face and tucked it behind her ear. She smiled and nuzzled her cheek into the palm of his hand.
He felt a sharp pinch in his chest and had to look away. Come, he said, dropping his hand to step away from her. But youll have to straighten your clothes first.
She blushed and began to work the ties of her gown that hed nearly ripped apart in his efforts to free her breasts. Just the thought of being inside her made him hot all over again. His need was insatiable. Drowning in her heat, he could forget everything else. For a while.
What kind of surprise is it? Where are we going?
He shook his head and turned away from her naked chest. Patience, little one. It wouldnt be much of a surprise, now, if I told you, would it?
When shed seen to her clothing, he took her hand and led her from the solar through the great hall and up the tower stairs.
Youre taking me to my chamber?
Yes, though it wont be for very much longer. He grabbed the handle and pushed open the door, then led her through. Well have to move it all over again tomorrow.
She gazed around at the stack of trunks piled high around the small room. What Her gaze shot to him in sudden comprehension. My clothes, she said, stunned. You sent for my clothes.
And shoes, he added. Dont forget the shoes. Two trunks worth of shoes. His back still ached just thinking about it. Who knew a womans slippers could be so heavy? By the third level of stairs, he would have sworn the trunks were loaded with stones. I thought you might be weary of Marys old gowns and
But he didnt finish because shed hurled herself in his arms and started pressing kisses over his mouth and jaw. He knew shed be pleased, but he hadnt expected this effusion of sentiment. She must have missed her finery more than hed realized. Hed never understand womens fascination with fashion. Not that he minded right now, when he was reaping the benefits.
Oh, you are the most wonderful man! She beamed. How shall I ever thank you?
His mouth crooked. I can think of a few ways.
She pursed her mouth playfully, her eyes bright with mischief. Im sure you can. But that will have to wait. At least until Ive unpacked. She opened the nearest trunk and started pulling out gown after gown and different parts of gownssleeves, foreparts, skirts, and ruffsas fast as she could, making little sighing sounds of pleasure whenever she came across one that she particularly liked. She was like a bairn in a room fool of sweets. There were silks, velvets, wools, brocades, and satins in every color embroidered with jewels, metallic threads, and lace. Hed never seen such a wardrobe; it was fit for a queen.
Lachlan was pleased that hed made her so happy, but he couldnt resist the twinge of unease when faced with such obvious signs of wealth. It had been some time since shed worn that elaborate bridal gown to dinner; attired in Marys castoffs, it was easy to forget the world from which she came. Where would she wear all of this? For the yearly journey to Edinburgh when he was forced to present himself before the king?
Watching the pile on her bed grow higher made his next surprise seem woefully inadequate.
He walked toward the fireplace and picked up the small box hed placed on the chair earlier. Ill leave you to your unpacking, then, but before I go, I have one more thing for you.
She placed the stack of fine linen sarks shed removed from the trunk on the bed and turned to him. What more could you possibly give me? Youve already given me so much.
Tis but a small token. A gift to mark the occasion of our marriage.
Her face fell. But I have nothing for you.
I have all I want. He held out the box. Please, take it.
Eyeing him hesitantly, she took the box and then sat on the chair to open it. He held still as he waited for her to untie the string and lift off the top. She was looking down, so he couldnt see her face, but he heard her gasp. Carefully, she slid one of the slippers from the box and held it up to the light. The tiny pearls and diamonds that lined the heel of the delicate silk shoe caught the flame of the fire and sparkled. Lachlan Her voice was full of wonder. She turned to him with wide blue eyes. But how?
He tried to hide his pleasure that his gift had pleased her. I know its a tradition for the father to present shoes to the groom, but I thought sinceI thought you could wear them on our wedding. I had them made in ivory since I didnt know what color gown you would wear.
She slipped her delicate arched foot into the shoe and straightened her leg to admire it. It must be innate, he thought. His sisters did exactly the same thing whenever they had new shoes.
They fit perfectly, she marveled. How did you do it?
I was able to salvage one of the slippers you lost in the sea; it washed up on shore the next day.
But you must have ordered these some time ago. How could you possibly have known?
He shrugged. I didnt. I hoped that I would eventually succeed in convincing you. Since it was a shoe that brought you to me, I thought it a fitting way to mark the occasion.
Her smile reached all the way to her eyes. Why, Lachlan Maclean, behind that hard-as-steel warriors exterior, you are a romantic.
He frowned. Dont be ridiculous. But his disgruntled response only seemed to amuse her further. If youd rather have jewelry
Absolutely not! She tucked her feet under her protectively, as if daring him to try to take them away. Theyre the most beautiful shoes Ive ever seen.
He grinned at her fearsome expression.
But She paused, and her gaze turned questioning. They must have cost a fortune.
They had. Money he didnt have. But how could he marry her without giving her something worthy of her? And it was important that he buy her something without her tocher. He took her hand and dropped a kiss atop her knuckles, staring into her eyes. They are a gift. I just wanted to show you how much you mean to me.
Floras heart swelled in her chest, touched by the sentiment and thoughtfulness of Lachlans gift. She never would have imagined the harsh, forbidding man whod abducted her would turn out to be so thoughtful. Not that shed try telling him so. Just thinking about the way his mouth had curled with distaste at the mention of him being romantic made her chuckle. No, this was something she would keep to herself. This side of him was all for her.
She draped her arms around his neck, stood up on her toes, and kissed him softly on his mouth. Thank you, she whispered. I will cherish them always. I only wish that I had something for you. If there is anything you desire, anything you want, name it. If it is in my power, I shall give it to you.
His arms had wrapped around her waist, and he pulled her a little closer. Flora, I
There was something strange in his voice. She cocked her head. What is it?
His gaze bored into her intently, as if searching for something.
Youve seemed preoccupied the past couple of days, she said. Is something bothering you?
No. He dropped his arms and shook his head, taking a step back. The guests will be arriving soon, we wont have much time to be alone again before the ceremony tomorrow.
The guests would be few, she thought with a stab of disappointment. Her cousin Argyll, her brother Rory, and only a few neighboring clan chieftains and their families. There simply hadnt been time to send for the rest of her brothers and sistersor her cousins Jamie and Elizabeth Campbell, for that matter.
Im sorry, lass, he said, reading her mind. I know you wished more of your family could be here.
She shook her head. It doesnt matter. I know you are eager to have this finalized. She frowned, realizing there was still one person unaccounted for. Will your brother John arrive in time? Im anxious to meet him.
He went unnaturally still, a reaction that seemed to occur whenever the subject of his brother arose. It was strange that Lachlan never talked about John. Perhaps theyd had a falling-out, but given how close Lachlan was to Gilly and Mary, it seemed out of character.
Im afraid not, he said. Johns been unavoidably detained.
You never said where he was.
He paused, and she thought his jaw hardened. Near Edinburgh.
Truly? She smiled. I wonder if I met him at court?
No. He shook his head. I dont think so.
Clearly, the mention of his brother had upset him. He seemed remote, distant. Taking a step toward him, she said, Lachlan, I
Ill leave you to your gowns, he said roughly. As soon as your brother and cousin arrive, Ill send for you.
And before she could move to comfort him, hed gone. Flora knew something was wrong. What she didnt know was why he wouldnt share it with her.
When Flora answered Lachlans summons a few hours later, she felt like her old self. She wore a French gown of dark blue velvet embroidered with tiny seed pearls across the stomacher and a matching pair of shoes. Since her arrival at Drimnin Castle, shed become accustomed to simply tying her hair back with a scrap of ribbon to hang loose down her back, but tonight shed asked Morag to help arrange it in a complicated twist secured by a matching velvet-and-pearl cap.
Though nowhere as extravagant as the wedding gown shed worn a couple of weeks ago, the dress was elegant and finely made, giving her courage a much needed boost. Something she would need to face her formidable cousin and brother. Taking a deep breath, she entered the lairds solar.
Lachlan stood before the fire, facing her. The two other men rose as she entered. Surprisingly, the normally dour expression on her cousins face that had earned him his epithet, Archibald the Grim, was absenthe actually appeared to be smiling.
She turned to the other man and drew in her breath. Though it had been years since theyd last met, she recognized him at once. Rory.
Shed forgotten what impressive men her brothers were. He stood at least half a foot over six feet talla couple of inches taller than Lachlan, who was himself an unusually tall man. Like Lachlan, Rory was broad-shouldered and exceedingly well muscled. His hair was dark golden brown, his eyes an unusually striking blue, and his perfectly chiseled features well tanned. The combination was striking, and something was oddly familiar. It took her a moment to realize why. His eyes were the exact same color as hers. The obvious blood connection moved her more than she would have thought possible.
Realizing she was staring, she shifted her gaze back to Lachlan, who seemed amused by her study of her brother.
She grinned sheepishly and, remembering her duty, greeted one of the most powerful men in Scotland, the Earl of Argyll. Cousin, I hope your journey was a pleasant one.
Uneventful, at least. We had to travel with uncomfortable speed to arrive in the time allotted by Colls messenger. Seeing Floras contrite expression, he added, Not that I mind. He gave her a sharp look. Id begun to think you would never wed.
Rory stepped forward to greet her with an unexpected hug. It is good to see you, Flora. Its been too long.
Not used to such brotherly displays of affection, Flora held herself awkwardly for a moment before she allowed herself to relax. It felt strangebut nice. When he released her, she was able to say with all sincerity, It has indeed, brother.
Im sorry for the loss of your mother, lass.
Flora felt the familiar wave of sadness, stayed by the sudden comforting press of Lachlans hand at her waist. Thank you, she said. I miss her greatly.
Rory glanced meaningfully at Lachlans hand. Coll was just explaining how this all came about. I admit it was a bit of a surprise. I was under the impression from the missive you sent refusing my invitation to Dunvegan that you were with Duart.
Luckily, she and Lachlan had anticipated this question and were prepared. Indicating for the men to sit, Flora took the seat beside Lachlan. Folding her hands in her lap, she turned to her brother and tried to stay calm under his intense scrutiny. Something shed had plenty of practice with the past few weeks, thanks to Lachlan.
On my way to see Hector, we suffered a carriage accident on the road near Falkirk. She left out the fact that shed been eloping with Lord Murray and that the accident was a result of being waylaid by kidnappers.
I happened to be returning from Edinburgh, Lachlan continued. And was able to offer Mistress MacLeod assistance.
How fortunate that you were there to help, Argyll said. Brigands and thieves have made the roads so dangerous, who knows what might have befallen you, Flora.
She looked at her cousin quizzically. It wasnt like him to be so accommodating. Shed expected some rather pointed questions from her demanding cousin.
Rory studied her so intently, she felt a strange urge to squirm. Then he turned his scrutiny on Lachlan. Fortunate indeed. It was clear from his tone that he was skeptical. He looked directly at Lachlan. Why did you not return my sister to Edinburgh?
I was needed here.
She should have been returned to her family as soon as was possible, Rory pointed out, his voice holding an ominous edge. Even if you could not do so yourself, you should have sent for me. Immediately.
Lachlan met his gaze. I discovered I liked having Mistress MacLeod herewith me.
Rorys eyes flared, and Flora could see his hand tighten on the wooden arm of the chair. Lachlan noticed but didnt seem to show any indication of backing down. The tension between the two men was palpable. Realizing shed better do something before this deteriorated further, she stepped in. It was my wish as well, brother. Please, dont be angry. Cant you see that it has all turned out for the best?
Rory broke his glare at Lachlan long enough to look at her and see that she was in earnest.
Are you sure that this is what you want, Flora? You wish to marry Coll? He has not coerced you
No, Flora said firmly, putting a restraining hand on Lachlan, sensing his anger. I came to this decision on my own. I assure you, Rory, I wish to marry him. She smiled at Lachlan. More than anything Ive ever wanted in my life.
Lachlan took her hand and held it in his, an almost symbolic gesture. Youve heard it. We have agreed to marry. It is done.
Flora looked at him questioningly, noting the odd turn of phrase.
Not if I withhold my permission, Rory said.
Are you doing so? Lachlan challenged.
Of course he isnt, Argyll said. Hes already agreed.
But Rory looked as though he were having second thoughts. What would she do if he withheld his permission? She had to make him see.
Please, brother, Flora said softly. I love him.
Rory looked into her eyes. Flora waited, holding her breath. Finally, a wide smile spread across his handsome face. Ah, then how can I object? It is your decision. He leaned over and gave her a peck on the cheek. Congratulations, little sister.
Once the situation was under control and the tension between the two men had dissipated, Flora excused herself, leaving the men to their whisky. She needed to check on Mary and Gilly and make sure everything was ready for tomorrow.
The meeting had gone much better than shed expected, she thought with not a small amount of relief. Rory had been suspicious. Rightfully so, she admitted. What had been more surprising was her cousins reactionshed expected more resistance from him. He must be more anxious to see her wed than shed realized.
She didnt have to look long, finding the girls in the kitchens vaults beneath the great hall. Gilly was giggling with one of the young serving girls, and Mary was giving last minute instructions to the cook. Her eyes were bright and her face unusually animated. It was the happiest shed seen her in some time, Flora realized.
Is everything ready? she asked.
Both girls turned to her at once.
Flora! Gilly said. You look beautiful. Wherever did you get that lovely gown?
Your brother sent for my clothes.
He did? Gilly said, obviously surprised. What have you done to him? Gowns are the last thing he thinks about. You should see his face when I tell him my dresses are too short or out-of-date.
Flora laughed. I couldnt believe it myself. But thats not why Im here. I have a surprise for both of you.
Gillys eyes lit up. What kind of surprise?
Gilly, Mary said patiently, it wouldnt be a surprise if she told us.
Gilly shot Mary a look of sisterly annoyance. Flora bit her lip to keep from laughing aloud. Instead she said, Youll have to go to your chamber and find out. Shed never realized how many gowns and shoes she had until confronted with the sight of all her trunks stacked about in her small tower room. After living so many weeks with a limitedto put it mildlywardrobe, such superfluity embarrassed her. So shed gone through her gowns and chosen a number that would be perfect for Gilly and Mary. When she returned to Edinburgh, she would have an entire new wardrobe made for each of them.
Gilly took off running at once, and Flora and Mary watched her disappear up the stairs with a smile.
Gilly has never been one for patience, Mary said.
I can see that, Flora replied. Though I have to admit, Im much like her. Her gaze fell on Marys happy face. Its good to see you smile again, Mary.
Mary lowered her eyes and blushed. I have good reason.
You do?
Mary nodded. Flora could see she was struggling to contain her excitement. I wasnt supposed to tell you until tomorrow
Flora held her breath, hoping. Tell me what?
Mary met her gaze, and Flora could see tears of happiness shining back at her. My brother has changed his mind. Hes agreed to let Allan court me, and if we both still feel the same in a year, he will give his permission for us to marry.
Flora wrapped her arms around the younger girl in a big hug. Oh, Mary, thats wonderful. Im so happy for you.
Yes, it is, isnt it? Mary laughed. And I have you to thank for it.
Flora shook her head. No. Your brother would have changed his mind eventuallyonce he realized your feelings were in earnest. He would never force you into a marriage you didnt want. He loves you.
Mary looked at her skeptically. He was quite determined. He loves us, but the good of the clan comes first. I know you spoke to him and urged him to reconsider, he said as much to me.
He did?
Yes. And dont you see, when you agreed to marry him and he gained your family connections, garnering an alliance with my marriage became much less important.
Well, however it came about, Im so happy for you. You look radiant. Allan wont be able to take his eyes off you. She grinned. Especially when he sees what Ive left you. Now hurry, up to your room, there isnt much time left to change.
Marys eyes widened with comprehension. She gave Flora another quick hug before following her sister up the stairs with only a slightly more dignified speed.
Flora was so happy, she thought she could burst. After tomorrow, it would be perfect.
Lachlan felt the tension dissipate with Rorys agreement. After the declaration hed made with Flora and with what he had planned tonight, he didnt need it, but for Floras sake he was glad. It would make tomorrow much more pleasant.
Marriage law in Scotland was open to interpretation, to say the least. Although the kirk frowned on irregular marriage and tried to discourage them by levying fines and the like, it did not take much to make a valid claim of marriage. A statement of intent to marry followed by consummation would suffice. And Lachlan intended to make sure he had such a claim, not wanting to take a chance that Rory would change his mind.
Clearly, Rory didnt believe their story of a chance meeting, and Lachlan expected to be under some intense questioning as soon as Flora left the roomwhich she did not long after to attend to the evening meal.
He wasnt disappointed. The door had barely closed before Rory turned on him. Now youll tell me what really happened.
He considered lying, but he respected his old friend too much to do soeven if it meant facing the wrong end of Rorys fabled claymore. He wouldnt tell him about the bargain hed made with Argyll, but he would tell him enough of the truth to forestall any more questions.
He gave Argyll a quick glance before turning back to Rory. It wasnt an accident. My men stopped her carriage.
All signs of conviviality vanished. There was only so far he could stretch the bonds of friendship, and hed just hit the limits.
You abducted my sister?
There was no good answer to that question, so he stayed silent.
Rorys jaw hardened, holding back his fury by a very thin thread. Why? he asked.
Lachlan met Rorys angry gaze, knowing that it was only their long friendship that had prevented him from challenging him first and asking questions second. I wanted her.
If you forced her, you are a dead man. The cold fury in Rorys voice resonated in the small room.
You know me better than that.
I thought so. Why not come to me? You know I would have pressed your suit.
That is the very reason I did not. Id heard she was strong-willed and opposed to the idea of an arranged marriage. I thought the direct approach would be more effective.
Rory must have acknowledged the truth to that, because he did not argue. Instead he said, How did you know where she would be?
Lachlan explained about the elopement, leaving out how hed come to be aware of it.
Rory swore. Like Argyll, he was no friend to Lord Murray. The little minx.
Argyll, whod been conspicuously quiet and more than content to let Lachlan appease the MacLeod, finally spoke. Colls method might have been rather primitive, but you cannot argue with the results. It is a good match, and clearly the lass wants him.
Rorys eyes narrowed at Argyll. He should have kept his mouth shut and let Lachlan handle it. The MacLeod suspected that something else was afoot.
Only the fact that I am convinced my sister does wish to marry you of her own free will prevents me from questioning you further. But before I leave here, I will have the full story.
Lachlan nodded. By then, it would be too late for it to matter.