Page 22 of His Runaway Bride
Connor grunted again, but subsided into sullen silence, apparently willing to endure his wife's scolding as long as she remained within arm's reach.
"I apologize for my husband's manners," Fiona continued, rolling her eyes at Connor's behavior."He's been impossible to live with since Ewan left, and dealing with clan matters always makes him even more disagreeable than usual."
"I heard that," Connor muttered darkly.
"Ye were meant to," Fiona replied sweetly, patting his arm with absent affection."Now then, Lileas, ye must be tired and hungry after such an ordeal.Let's get ye settled in yer chambers."
"Aye, but from now on ye will both have guards keeping watch over ye at all times," Ewan interrupted, his voice carrying the authority of a laird taking charge of his domain.
Both women looked as if they were about to object, but Connor gestured to two of Cameron's men who nodded and followed the women.
Once they were gone, the men retreated indoors to the council room to discuss matters privately.
Connor's expression grew even more grim."What exactly do the Fergusons want with yer wife?"
"She's highly skilled in makinguisge beatha," Ewan replied grimly.
Connor raised a brow."And from what I hear, she can also rain fire from the sky?"
"Aye, her mind is very sharp.Any clan would be lucky to have her."
"And what of ye, brother.Do ye feel lucky to have her?"
"I'll kill any man who tries to take her from me."
"Then we best guard her well."
***
Chapter 10: Celebrations
The sun was beginningto set behind the Highland peaks as Lileas found herself standing in what would be her chambers.The room was larger than she had expected, with tall windows that offered a sweeping view of the loch beyond the keep's walls.A fire crackled cheerfully in the stone hearth, casting dancing shadows across tapestries that depicted scenes of Highland history.
Fiona bustled about the chamber, directing the servants who were bringing in heated water, linens, and a tray of food and drink.Connor's wife commanded immediate obedience from the household staff, who seemed genuinely fond of her.
"I hope this will suit ye," Fiona said, smoothing the coverlet on the large bed."These have been the lady's chambers for generations of MacNeil wives."
