Page 4 of The Lass and the Laird

Ian and Dugan looked up from a table at his entrance. His friend's gaze followed his progress and then looked past him and darkened. Declan didn't have to turn around to know the maid, Awena, must have come down the stairs behind him.

As lusty as Ian was, he was sure she'd already warmed the male's bed. Finally his friend's attention returned to him. "Fare thee well, Laird?"

"Aye, Ian. We will ride to the village today. Unless you are too tired to ride again so soon." He emphasized the word ride and lifted a brow. "Or should I allow you to remain here and look into the upkeep of the bedding?"

It was hard not to laugh when Ian's brows lowered and he mumbled low curses. "I have already asked for our mounts to be brought around. Two of the men will ride with us."

This was not to his liking. Declan had always detested lack of freedom and the need for guards was something new. It would not sit well with the simple people of Moriag that he thought to need protection.

"I will not ride about with guards at my side today. I will only ride with you." He looked to Dugan. "Go to the west and ride as far as the loch goes. My lands end there. Report to me at the evening meal what you find."

"I don't agree. As you are now laird, you must be guarded," Ian protested.

"Nay. My brother assures me it is safe here and you saw the Campbell. He traveled alone." They walked outside and he looked to Dugan and the other four who'd already mounted. The men looked to their leader, Ian, as if for confirmation.

Declan didn't give Ian the opportunity to talk. "You will do as I say or return to Gordon Keep today."

The men left without a backward glance.

"If you get pierced by an arrow, I will push it further in," Ian told him, reaching for the reins and mounting. "You stand warned."

Declan found his seat before replying with wide, innocent eyes. "You say such beautiful words to me, darling."

"To the village first?" Ian gritted the words out.

"Aye."

"Care to ride ahead of me, milady?" Ian waved a hand forward.

"I wonder at the folly to have asked you to accompany me to live here."

"It would have been worse not to have me to look after your foolish ways."

"Hmmm."

Chapter Two

Meredith Stuart should have been enjoying the day at the village square. It was warm with slight breezes that cooled her heated skin. The atmosphere was light and people mingled about sharing stories and greetings.

Traveling musicians were set up in the center of the square on a small platform and played a lively tune while children ran around dancing, their little faces gleaming with joy.

Spotting wooden bowls, she lifted her skirts and moved across a muddy spot and neared a vendor. She picked one up and admired the workmanship of the dish and then absently turned to her companion. "Is it not lovely?"

The maid, Lily, held up her large basket and Meredith placed two bowls into it. She smiled at the couple who thanked her profusely for paying full price and wished her a good day.

With a deep sigh, she continued to the next stand to inspect their wares. "Milady, why don't we sit for a spell? You are moving from stall to stall without taking a rest.” Lily's breathless words made Meredith realize that, indeed, she was winded as well.

"I had not considered how much walking about we are doing and how fast. Surely I am not in a hurry to return home. I am sorry, Lily." The vendor held up a stained glass ornament that reflected the sunlight. "I will take it." Meredith paid for it and placed it in Lily's basket.

"Come, let’s get something to drink and sit a spell.” They walked to a small inn in hopes of refreshing drinks and freshly baked goods.

Lily helped Meredith settle and joined her at the small table by a window. "This is nice." The girl fanned her plump, red cheeks. "I just need to sit a bit and then we can continue all you wish, milady."

Cider and fresh bread were placed on the table. The innkeeper's wife, Hannah McGregor, gave her a cheerful smile and asked about her brother.

Meredith drank from her glass, but ignored the bread and peered through the window to the square. "I feel restless, Lily." She let out a sigh and slumped forward.

"Are you unwell?" Lily asked. "I know you've had a hard time of it of late, but ‘tis a beautiful day to be about. I am in need of more ale, I fear. My throat is dry." She lifted a pitcher and refilled her glass.