As Connor rode back through the forest toward the keep, Morna's words echoing in his mind, he found himself thinking not just of his wounded pride, but of green eyes that had held dignity even in pain.For the first time since learning of the marriage, he wondered what Fiona Finnigan thought of being forced to marry him.
The thought both irritated and intrigued him, which only made his scowl deepen as he spurred his horse toward home.
As it turned out, he did not have long to discover the answer.
***
Chapter 3
Fiona awoke beforedawn with a knot of dread coiled tight in her stomach.The guest chamber felt smaller than it had the night before, the walls pressing in around her like a trap waiting to spring.She lay still for a moment, listening to the keep coming to life around her.Servants hurrying through corridors, the clatter of pots from the kitchens, the distant sound of men calling to each other in the courtyard.
A firm knock at her door made her stomach lurch."Come," she called, sitting up and pulling her arisaid around herself.
Her father entered, already dressed for the day, his weathered face set in grim lines.Behind him followed her maid, Kenna, and two other women from Clan Finnigan who had traveled with them."The marriage will proceed tomorrow at midday," Laird Finnigan announced without preamble."Connor MacNeil has given his consent."
Fiona felt the blood drain from her face."Tomorrow?"
"Aye.I'll be spending the day with the men, discussing terms and finalizing arrangements."He gestured toward the women hovering outside the door."Yer clanswomen will see to yer needs and preparations.Since MacNeil has made himself scarce — no doubt nursing his wounded pride— it would be best if ye remained out of his sight.I'll make excuses for yer absence at the midday and evening meals."
"Father, I—"
"The decision is made, Fiona."His voice softened slightly."I ken this isn't what ye wanted, but it's what must be.I'll come for ye in the morning to escort ye to the ceremony."He moved toward the door, then paused."Try to rest, lass.Tomorrow changes everything for both our clans."
The door closed with a finality that made Fiona's chest tighten.She stared at the women who remained, feeling more trapped than ever.
"Right then, Miss Fiona," said Kenna, the eldest of her traveling companions, taking charge with the efficiency of a battle commander."We've much to do and little time to do it."She gestured at the others to prepare a hot bath.
The chamber erupted with activity.The women moved efficiently about the room in excited preparation for her wedding.The walls seemed to close in further with each passing moment as they fussed and planned around her.
Hours passed in a blur.Kenna braided and rebraided Fiona's hair, testing different styles.Another woman polished her crest badge and saw to her wedding gown and accessories they had brought from Finnigan Keep.
"I need air," Fiona said suddenly, standing so abruptly.
"Miss, we really must finish—"
"I need air," Fiona repeated more firmly."Fresh air.I...I feel faint."
