Page 33 of Fearless Heart
“Och, you’re wanting to stay. I cannot blame ye for that, but move your arse, Heath, or we’ll never get to your father’s lands.”
He strolled to the ossuary and readied his horse. It took longer than usual because he had to fasten the new harness. He mounted and rode out. Heath hadn’t been home since the day his father sent him to serve the Bruce. His return wouldn’t be as contentious since he’d repaired his relations with his da. He hoped the rest of the clan was as amiable about his homecoming.
They rode for two days and along the way, he set his mind to solving Lillia’s situation. The Comyns would do anything to possess her, even kill or hurt those she cared about. She was correct in her postulation. Yet if they told James they’d found her, he would insist she be taken to King Robert. That likewise wouldn’t benefit Lillia. The Bruce would imprison her and keep all from knowing she existed. She certainly couldn’t return to her family.
He was her only salvation and it didn’t sit well. When he returned, he would insist she wed him. It was the only thing he could do to protect her unless something came to mind and saved him from the marital noose. All his aspirations cast aside once again and it seemed he’d never serve God as he’d intended. At least, not in the foreseeable future.
Brodin signaled to him and they quickly backed their horses into thick, high brush along the trail. Riders trotted through with their swords drawn. He raised a brow at the intruder’s gall. This was Fraser land and those that rode through most definitely not of his clan. Heath got a disconcerting sense and he tensed.
“My father and clan might be in peril. We will need to approach the keep with caution.”
Brodin nodded, but remained silent, and followed his lead. He kicked his horse’s haunches to get him moving. He didn’t slow his mount until the sight of his family keep came into view.
“Be alert for trouble. I don’t like that others were on our land and so close to the keep.”
Brodin gave a firm nod and slunk back behind him. They forged ahead and from what Heath saw, there was nothing out of the ordinary. A few of his clansmen scrutinized him as he passed on the lane to the keep. He got as far as the gatehouse but the gates remained closed. The sentry called out, and he peered above at the parapet.
“Who goes?”
He lowered his gaze, but shouted, “Heath Fraser.”
The gate’s heavy chains clinked and the heavy iron rose. He hastened his pace on the lane to the main building and left his horse outside the entrance of the keep.
“Come, something has my father vigilant. Rarely is the gate closed.”
Brodin trailed behind him as he entered. The great hall was empty and the vast chamber echoed with his footsteps. Heath took a moment to breathe in the scent of home, to take in the view of the coveted banners, to roam his eyes over the floorboards where he’d played as a child. Memories flooded him, most of he and Roderick as wee lads. Many an hour was spent crawling beneath the large trestle tables, trying to hide from his mother when it was time for sleep.
He heard no one about so he called out, “Da, Ma, anyone?”
A serving lass walked into the hall and set an empty bowl on the side table. “Heath? ‘Tis me, Beth, you probably don’t remember—”
“Of course I remember you. You look well, cousin. Is my father or mother about?”
Fortunately, Beth took after her mother in looks and not after his Uncle Andrew. His cousin gawked at Brodin when she answered. “Your da went to see Laird Hunter, but your ma is here. I’ll get her. She’s above.” She left the hall in a rush.
Women always reacted to Brodin whether startled or attracted. He sighed but turned back to his comrade and motioned to the table. Once they sat, he poured them each a cup of ale. He tensed and discerned something foreboding happened. If his father visited the Hunter clan, he had to know Lillia was missing.
“My son.” His mother breezed into the hall. She looked full of life, spry, and still beautiful even at her great age. The long locks of her auburn hair streaked with a subtle gray and her blue eyes sparkled. She rarely frowned for she’d said it caused one to age.
“Mother, it’s been too long. You appear well.” He rose and embraced her.
She pulled back. “Indeed, too many a year has passed since I’ve seen ye. Let me look upon you. You are still the most handsome lad in the land. And who is this striking man?”
Heath chuckled low. His mother always appreciated men, especially young strapping warrior-like men such as Brodin. He supposed she did so to irk his da, but as far as he knew she was a devoted wife.
“This is my good comrade, Brodin.”
“Lady Fraser.” Brodin bowed.
“Oh my, and verily gallant. Has anyone told you your eyes are splendid? Why I’ve never seen such a vivid blue before on a man. I imagine the lasses must blush when you gaze at them.”
He smiled and shook his head. “Nay, my lady, not to my knowledge. I’m not one for gazing.”
His mother laughed a melodic sound. “Ah, but they must gaze at you for you are truly handsome.”
“Mother, forgive me, but we have no time for … pleasantries. I need to speak with Da. Will he return soon?” Heath tried to avert her attention for his comrade appeared uncomfortable at his mother’s seemingly adoration.
“Oh posh, son, there is always time for pleasure. Your father should return soon. He was only supposed to be away for half the day. Now tell me … Brodin, what clan do you hail from?” She took his arm and forced Brodin to walk with her around the large table.