Fraser 03 - Highland Homecoming (10 page)

Chapter 10

Alasdair shoved his hand into the bracken, latched onto her shoulder, and tugged. She offered no resistance, and when she was free of the thicket, collapsed at his feet. “What are you doing in there? I’ve searched for hours and was certain you had met with foul play. I demand you explain.”

She rose to a wobbly stance and brushed the leaves and dirt from her nightrail. “I’m a woman grown and I answer tae no man.” She raised her gaze, her chin held high.

“When I returned from hunting and you were gone, I thought you’d been abducted or wandered off, mayhap had gotten lost or injured. What demon possessed you tae do such a foolhardy thing?” He crossed his arms over his chest and glared down at her. While he was relieved to find her unharmed, rage twisted his belly. She had been hiding only a few feet from the croft and had deliberately ignored him when he called out to her. Not to mention she’d had Jayden thinking he’d lost his mind.

True, she didn’t belong to him and never would, but she was in his care, and until such a time that she wasn’t, he felt responsible for her.

“You’d best have a good reason for your careless actions. What have you tae say for yourself?” he badgered.

She stiffened her spine and glared back at him. “I dinna have tae answer tae you, but if you insist, I needed a breath of air and decided tae take a wee walk.”

“Fresh air? You left the safety of the croft for some damned air? You could have opened the window shutters.”

“Last night, you appeared so intent on leaving. I thought it best I stretch my legs and see how my ankle fared. I—”

“Are you daft?” He threw his hands in the air. “Do you have any idea how dangerous it is for a lass tae be out on her own without an escort? You could have gotten lost in the woods, met with a wild animal, or worse, strangers meaning tae do you harm.” The thought of these prospects made him shudder.

“I’m no fool, Alasdair Fraser, and you are making more of this than necessary. I needed some air and you were nowhere around. I had no idea how long you’d be gone this time or where. You never bother tae say.”

“Och, you’ll not be turning this around onto me, lass. When I leave the croft, I do so for a guid reason. I am hunting, fishing, or fetching wood for the fire.” He felt the heat of anger rising in his face and the pressure building in the veins of his neck. He opened and closed balled fists, inhaled deeply, then silently summoned his last bit of restraint.

“When I leave, it is necessary, but I know you are in the croft and safe. Or so I thought until today,” he said through clenched teeth.

“I had my reasons also. I’ve been cooped up with nothing but four walls to look at for over a sennight. If I dinna get out for a bit, I thought I might go mad.”

Lauren wrung her hands and shifted her weight from one foot to the other. She was no longer making eye contact when she spoke. What was she hiding?

“You may feel your jaunts away from the croft are warranted, Alasdair, and I have no doubt they are for the most part, but you are oftentimes gone from before dawn until dusk. I have no idea when or if you will return.” She tried to move around him, but he blocked her path with his bulk.

“I dinna wander far and kept the croft in sight at all times, so dinna know why all the fuss.” She sidestepped him and began to limp back toward the croft.

He lunged forward, clasped her upper arm, and spun her around to face him. “You’ll leave when I say, and not until. We are not finished with this discussion.” He tightened the grip on her arm.

She released a soft whimper and squirmed in an attempt to free herself of his grasp. “Let go of me, you’re hurting my arm.”

He lightened his touch, but refused to release her. Not until she told him the truth. She was hiding something and he meant to find out what that was. “I dinna mean tae hurt you, but you willna be going anywhere until you explain yourself, Madame.” He took hold of her other arm and yanked her against his chest. “If you dinna wander far, why did you not answer when I called for you? What’s more, why were you cowering in yonder thicket like a frightened kirkmouse? It is clear you could hear me shouting out your name, yet you dinna reply. I find that curious.”

She bit down on her lower lip, still averting her eyes. When she didn’t answer his question, he softened his harsh tone of voice and asked again, “Tell me why you were hiding in the bushes, lass?”

“Why do you care what happens tae me? You have made it clear more than once that you are anxious tae leave, tae pawn me off on your friend and his clan so you can rejoin the cause. I’d think you’d be happy tae be rid of me.”

“You’re wrong.” Unsure what had possessed him to put aside his ire, he dropped his head and in a fury took possession of her mouth with a ravenous kiss. Her plump lips parted, allowing him to taste her sweetness. She fisted her hands in his tunic and he wanted nothing more than to fall to his knees, taking her with him, and find his pleasure. He had no doubt she’d surrender.

But he came to his senses before he could take things any further. He broke the kiss, and held her at arm’s length. He gave his head a sharp shake. “Forgive me. I promised that wouldna happen again. But it doesna change what took place today.”

“But you did kiss me and it must not happen again,” she blurted out when she managed to steady her rapid breath enough to speak. “I canna do this . . . we canna do this. Is it any wonder I felt the need to get away?”

She was talking in riddles, but had managed to catch herself up and he narrowed his brow. “So you admit you were planning tae run away?”

“I’ll admit tae naught. I told you, I needed tae stretch my legs if you planned on leaving for Sinclair Castle. Why is that so hard tae understand?”

His head started to spin. He’d never met a woman who could talk in circles, twist his words, and distract him the way she could.

He released one of her arms, cupped her chin, then raised it until her eyes met with his. “My friend Jayden thought me daft when I told him about you and then you vanished.”

His heart twisted when she clasped his hand and glared at him with narrowed eyes.

“What did you tell him? I must know.”

He immediately picked up a tremor in her voice. Was she frightened of Jayden for some reason?

“I told him I found you on the beach a sennight ago and brought you here tae take care of your injuries.”

“What else did you tell him?” she asked, then sucked in a short, sharp breath.

“I told him your name, but it meant nothing to him. I insist you tell me what is going on, Lauren. Why did Jayden’s presence make you feel threatened? Was he the man who assaulted you on the ship? I demand to know.”

She shook her head and said nothing.

“Tell me. Was he the man who attacked you?”

“Nay. Jayden is not the man who attacked me.”

“It is obvious by your reaction that you know him. Tell me how.”

“He is my brother.” She broke free of his grasp, spun around and ran toward the croft.

He stood there momentarily, his mouth gaping open in disbelief as she sprinted off like there was nothing wrong with her ankle. Had she lied to him from the start about everything?

His heart thundered in his chest as he raced after her, reaching the back door as she slammed it shut in his face. He tried to open the latch, but she was holding on to it from the inside and it wouldn’t budge. He pounded on the wooden plank with his fist. “Open the door Lauren. Or should I say Edina?”

“Please go away and leave me be, Alasdair.”

Her voice shook and he was certain she was crying.

“Open up. Now. You canna hold on tae the latch for long. Let go and step away or I’ll break the door down,” he ordered.

When she didn’t answer, he pressed down on the latch with all his force then shoved the door open. He stumbled forward when it gave way with ease and stormed inside.

She sat on a stool before the fire, her entire body trembling. He stared at her in disbelief. This striking woman could not possibly be Edina Sinclair. The same homely, freckle-faced lass he’d known as a bairn. If so, Jayden was right, she’d grown into a stunning beauty. No wonder he didn’t recognize her. But that didn’t matter. He would take her to her father and do his best to forget her.

She might have a good explanation for her actions, but he didn’t want to hear it. She’d lied to him, deceived him for her own gain, and he’d been made a fool of by yet another woman. He’d not feel sorry for her and had every intention of taking her to Sinclair Castle immediately, even if they had to travel all night.

“Get up,” he growled. When she didn’t respond, he took her by the wrist and dragged her to her feet. He felt no remorse for his roughness, nor would he let her manipulate him again.

“Where are you taking me?” She tried to dig in her heels.

“Home tae your clan, where you belong. The sooner we leave, the better. I’ll find you something tae wear and we’ll be off.”

“Alasdair, please I canna go home. Let me tell you why I—”

He held his hand in the air before she could finish. “I’ll listen tae no more lies from you. I dinna know how you managed tae fake your head injury, but everything since the day I found you has been a deception. A jest at my expense. Hell, you dinna even tell me your real name.”

“I wasna lying. I did hurt my ankle, and I dinna know my name.”

“Then why did you tell me it was Lauren?” he snapped.

“I never did. When I woke up, I honestly dinna remember who I was or how I came to be on the beach. You asked, and Lauren
was the only name that came tae mind, but I never said it was mine. I swear on all that is holy.”

He spat on the floor. “You wouldna know the truth if it jumped up and bit you in the arse. I saw the way you ran back tae the croft. There was no sign of a limp, yet last night I had tae carry you tae the pallet because you couldna stand.” He made no effort to hide his ire. “Do you take me for an idiot?

“I admit that my ankle is much better than it was.” She dropped her chin and studied her feet. “Mayhap I should have told you sooner, but I was afraid tae say anything for fear you would insist on taking me tae Sinclair Castle.”

“When did you remember your real name? How long have you been playing me for a fool?”

“I dinna recall my name until I saw my brother today.” She placed her hand on his forearm. “Please, you must believe me.”

“Why did you run rather than greet him? He told me your father was devastated when he thought you’d died. To know his daughter was alive would bring him great joy.”

“His four sons were my father’s whole life. I’ve done my best tae equal my brothers on horse, with a sword, bow, and when hunting. I can outride and outshoot all but Jayden. Yet my da has never shown any interest in me. Aside from what he stands tae gain from a well planned betrothal tae the laird of a neighboring clan.”

“You are betrothed?” He slammed his fist on the table. “Is there no truth in anything you’ve told me?”

“My father has promised my hand in marriage tae the future laird of the Sutherland clan. He is hoping to forge an alliance, but I havena given my consent. I dinna wish tae marry Duncan Sutherland and hope my father will reconsider.”

“He doesna need your consent and he’ll not repudiate his decision if the union will benefit the clan. I know your father and he is not the type of man tae be easily swayed.” He paused and studied her blanched face for a moment. “When did you remember you were betrothed, or have you known all along?” She’d been lying to him from the start so why should this be any different. He clenched his fists at his side, waiting for her reply.

She lowered her gaze and twisted her hands. “Yesterday. I had another dream while you were away and I—”

“So you saw fit tae hold back that information from me as well,” he growled. “You really must think I’m a damned buffoon. I fell for your ruse of being injured and you almost had me believing you were sincere and honorable.” He spun around and stomped toward the door, intent on putting some much-needed space between them.

“Where are you going?” she asked. “Will you not let me explain?”

“There is no point in discussing this any further. I canna believe a word you speak.”

“Alasdair, please.” She moved toward him.

He held up his hand to stay her advance. “I have nothing more tae say. You’ll find a pair of trews and a tunic in a canvas sack by the hearth. I’d suggest you put them on, lest you wish tae be presented tae your da in your nightrail. I’m going tae ready Odin. Be prepared tae leave when I return.” He yanked open the door and hurried out of the croft.

Chapter 11

Edina retrieved the canvas satchel from beside the hearth and opened it. Inside, she found clothes that were far too large for her petite frame and bound to hang on her like a grain sack. But Alasdair was right. She didn’t want to travel on horseback wearing only a nightrail, nor was it how she wished to be presented to her father.

If only Alasdair could find it in his heart to forgive her deception, would reconsider his decision to turn her over to her family, and offer to help her with her plight.

After putting on the trews and rolling up the legs so they did not drag on the ground, she donned the tunic and turned up the sleeves. She glanced down at her appearance and shook her head—certain she looked like one of the homeless waifs she’d seen on the streets of Edinburgh the time she’d accompanied her mother to the home of her clan. Actually, it was the second time she had been there. She was born in Edinburgh on one such visit, the reason why her mother chose to name her Edina. In Gaelic, it meant of Edinburgh, and her mam told her that while she now resided in the Highlands, the name always reminded her of home.

She missed her mother very much, but her thoughts quickly returned to her current situation. Alasdair was furious, and she really did not blame him for feeling betrayed. But she was not a devious person by nature. She’d done what she had out of necessity and never intended to hurt him. She really did not remember her name or what happened on the ship when he found her. Somehow, she had to make him understand. But given his ire when he stormed out of the croft, this was not the right time. Suffice to say, the journey to Sinclair Castle promised to be a long and dismal ride.

“Are you dressed and ready tae leave?” Alasdair poked his head in the door and their eyes met.

“Aye, as ready as I will ever be. While I do appreciate the loan of your clothes, I am afraid they dinna fit verra well.” She wrapped her arms around her waist to keep the trews from falling off her hips.

Alasdair stomped across the room, yanked the drawstring from his supply sack, and tossed it at her. “Use this tae cinch the trews and make haste. The hour grows late and I want tae be away while we still have some daylight.”

Despite the strong temptation to speak her mind and comment on his rudeness, she bit her tongue, deciding it was better to remain silent than to risk riling him further. Edina tied the rope snuggly around her waist, then picked up the satchel and began filling it with dried venison, turnips, and the oatcakes.

“What are you doing?” Alasdair crossed his arms over his chest and glared at her through narrowed eyes.

“I thought we might have need of a few things tae nibble on along the way. Have you a wineskin I can fill with water?”

He patted the deerhide flagon that hung at his side. “I’ve already taken care of that and have another on my saddle. We have a hard ride ahead of us and if you’re quite finished dallying, I’d like tae get started.”

She stepped forward and placed her hand on his forearm. “I know you’re upset with me Alasdair, but you must believe me when I say that I never meant tae do anything tae—”

“I told you I dinna want tae hear your excuses. They mean naught from someone who has proved herself tae be a liar.”

She stood her ground. “You promised tae protect me, Alasdair, tae keep me safe. Yet you are willing tae toss me tae the wolves without giving it a second thought or allowing me the chance tae explain,” she replied sharply.

“I hardly consider turning you over tae your kin as a betrayal. As for an explanation, I have heard enough of your lies.”

“My father and brother care not about my happiness. They plan tae hand me over tae a man I dinna know or love with no more regard than they would a prize steer or mare at an auction. What else would you call it?”

“I call it following Highland tradition, the way it has been for centuries. Without these practices where would we be?”

“Tae hell with Highland tradition,” she replied, showing no remorse for cursing. Something a lady of her standing would never do. “If only you would believe me when I tell you I was injured and dinna know my name. I never meant to deceive you, Alasdair.”

“I thought you were different from other women I have known in the past, but I was wrong.”

“I believed you were different as well. But it appears you live in the past like my father and are not the man I hoped you were.”

“Think of me what you will, but you can rest assured, m’lady, I willna be fooled by you again.” He lifted her hand from his arm, then moved away. “I’ll be outside and suggest you dinna keep me waiting any longer.”

There was no mistaking the disappointment and distain in his voice. Edina wished she had told him the truth when her memory first returned, but it was too late and there was no going back. “I come anon. I just want tae gather a few more things.”

Alasdair planted his hands on his hips, watching in silence as she picked up some eating utensils, two trenchers, and two tankards, then placed them in the sack with the food. While he never uttered a word, the scowl on his face spoke volumes. Certain she had what they needed, Edina walked toward the door, but stopped to pick up a length of plaid from the foot of the pallet, then draped it around her shoulders. Evenings could be very chilly in northern Scotland, even in the summer.

Walking ever so gingerly, she followed Alasdair to where Odin stood, sharp stones and gravel digging into the soles of her bare feet as she crossed the clearing. Large hands encircled her waist and before she knew it, he had lifted her onto the saddle.

“I had no boots tae offer you and even if I did, they’d likely fall off. I’m afraid your feet will have tae remain bare. If you unroll the legs of the trews, they will at least be covered.” He didn’t wait for her permission and proceeded to tug down the fabric.

“Have you another horse?” She glanced around, in search of a second mount. He could not possibly mean for them to ride into her father’s keep together, especially if he was concerned about appearances.

“Odin is strong enough tae carry us both. You weigh no more than a bairn.”

“For us tae ride on the same animal isna proper. What will my father think?”

“You should have considered that when you hid from your brother,” he snapped. “A lot has happened since I found you on the beach that most people wouldna deem proper. Had you made your presence known when Jayden was here, you could have ridden home in his company. So unless you wish tae walk all the way tae your father’s castle, I’d suggest you not question how I mean tae get you there.”

“How long afore we’ll arrive?” she asked softly.

“Too long,” he grumbled then climbed into the saddle behind her. “Get yourself seated properly and hold on because I dinna mean tae waste time.”

Her body tensed and her breath hitched when she felt the intimate rub of his muscular thighs and the warmth of his rock hard chest pressed against her back. When he encased her with arms of iron and grabbed the reins, the scent of man and musk made her dizzy with desire. She tried to lean forward, to put a bit of space between them, but he yanked her back so her bottom rested against his groin.

“You’ll tire too quickly if you sit forward like that. You have nothing tae fear, m’lady. My intentions are strictly honorable and your virtue will remain intact.” He didn’t bother to hide the sarcasm in his voice.

Given the way her body reacted to his nearness and the fact he was still very angry, relaxing was not an easy task. She wiggled her bottom, flexed her legs and arms, then fisted the horse’s mane. “I’m ready.”

“Finally,” was all Alasdair said, then he dug both heels into Odin’s flanks.

The steed lunged forward. Were it not for her skill as a competent horsewoman, she’d have been terrified by the speed at which the horse covered the rocky terrain. At this rate they’d arrive at their destination well before nightfall.

Her stomach sank at the thought of seeing her kin and having to explain what had happened. Four summers had passed since her mother died and her da sent her to foster with her aunt. She was not the same complacent lass she used to be, and she was certain she’d not be able to accept her father’s demands without protest.

Her parent’s marriage was far from ideal, yet somehow they’d managed to tolerate each other for more than twenty summers. They’d met at court, when her father came to pay his respects and taxes to the former Scottish king and her mother caught his eye. Her mam had no desire to leave her beloved Edinburgh, or to marry a Highlander, but once the king sanctioned the union, she had no choice.

The only daughter of a powerful laird, Edina always knew her fate would be similar to that of her mother—an arranged betrothal, possibly to a man she’d never even met—but secretly dreamed she’d someday marry a man she loved. She had no doubt that her da would be pleased to see her, as would Jayden. But there were still the matters of explaining why she’d spent the last sennight alone in Alasdair’s company, her objection to marrying Duncan Sutherland, and, worst of all, facing her father’s advisor and dearest friend, the man who had attacked her on the ship and, like everyone else, believed her dead. Mayhap it would have been better if she’d drowned.

If he continued to push Odin without taking a break, he’d run the poor beast into the ground, but every moment with Edina nestled in his lap was pure torture. The sooner they arrived at Sinclair Castle, the better. However, when froth began to form on the horse’s chest and withers, Alasdair eased up on the reins and the faithful steed broke from a brisk trot to a walk.

“Are we stopping?” Edina asked hesitantly.

“Only long enough for Odin tae rest and have a drink. There are still several miles tae travel afore we reach your father’s castle.” He brought the animal to a halt in a small clearing, slid from the saddle, then reached up to assist her.

“I can do it myself.” She lifted her chin, pushed his hands away, and climbed down unaided. “You dinna need to coddle me, Alasdair, I can ride as well as any man.”

“So I’ve been told,” Alasdair grunted. Under different circumstances, he might have found her temerity appealing. He studied the determination in her eyes, but despite her effort to put on a stoic front, she looked weary. After being abed for a sennight, she was bound to be exhausted. Were he not so furious with her, he might take things a bit easier. But Edina had betrayed him, lied to him for her own gain, just like every other woman he’d ever known. He refused to take any pity on her, or to slow their journey on her behalf.

He grasped the wineskin from the back of the saddle, took a drink, then tossed it to her. “Have some water and best you tend tae your needs. I’m not sure when or if we will be stopping again.”

She took a few sips from the flagon before handing it back to him. “Thank you. I will use yonder thicket if you dinna mind.”

He gave a curt nod. “Do what you must and make haste. Daylight is waning and I want tae arrive at your father’s keep afore dark. We have enough tae account for as it is and being forced tae make camp for the night would only make things worse. As it is, I’ll be lucky if I’m not drawn and quartered for tainting your reputation.”

“Naught happened between us and my da will understand. He must. Our fathers were friends and you are an honorable man.”

“When a father has what he believes tae be a guid reason to question his daughter’s virtue, the past and honor holds no credence. I suggest you do what you must while I water the horse.” He dismissed her with a sweep of his arm.

After rolling up the legs of the trews so they didn’t drag on the ground, Edina moved toward a clump of bushes at the edge of the clearing. He watched the gentle sway of her hips as she walked away and his groin stirred. “Mo crèche,” he cursed. After all that had happened, she still had the ability to make his pulse race and his blood heat. The sooner they got to their destination the better.

He whistled for Odin and his obedient mount trotted over and nudged his arm. “I’ve sworn off women my entire life and for good reason, lad.” He stroked the horse’s forelock, then scratched the animal’s ear. “Be glad you’re a beast and dinna have tae trouble yourself about such things.” He fisted the reins and led the horse to a nearby stream to drink.

Edina cleared her throat with a soft cough before speaking. “I’m finished and ready tae leave whenever you are.”

Alasdair remained silent. He squatted beside the water and refilled the wineskin before answering. “The sack with the food is tied tae the back of Odin’s saddle. I suppose there’s time for you tae have a wee bite afore we go.” He didn’t turn around or look at her.

“I’m not hungry. Best we be on our way,” she replied tersely.

“Suit yourself. Dinna say the offer wasna made.” He stood and before she could respond, he lifted her into the saddle, and climbed up behind her.

They traveled the rest of the trip in silence. He slowed the pace a little, but the gesture was for Odin’s sake and not for the lass. Or so he told himself. Regardless of what happened between them, he was and would remain a gentleman.

By the time they reached the castle of the Clan Sinclair the sun had set. Alasdair’s stomach twisted. He dreaded facing Jayden and his father after making a fool of himself, prattling on about the lovely lass he’d found on the beach and had spent more than sennight taking care of.

Despite telling Jayden nothing had happened, his friend was convinced he’d bedded the lass. Her brother would surely want to see him flayed when he found out the woman he’d told him about was his sister. The laird would want retribution and he couldna really blame him if he believed the worst. Were he her father, he’d likely react in the same way. Edina was a comely lass, and most men would have taken advantage of their time alone together.

Resolved to face what fate had in store for him, Alasdair stiffened his spine and kicked Odin into a trot. Best he get this over with rather than speculate the outcome.

As they neared the drawbridge, two burly guards stepped into their path. “Halt and state your business,” the first said, then widened his stance and drew his sword. The second held a claymore in one hand, and with the other, lifted a torch in the air.

Alasdair stopped the horse and dropped the reins. He held his hands out to the side, his palms skyward. “My name is Alasdair Fraser and I come in peace. I wish tae see Laird Sinclair and my friend Jayden. They are expecting me.”