Page 43 of Fearless Heart

Laird Fraser agreed.

Heath mounted his horse. He despaired at the thought his vow to God would never come to fruition. As much as he enjoyed being with Lillia, he didn’t want to cause her more hardships. And with the path his life had taken in the recent years, he’d make her miserable. His denial of what was to come finally ceased. He would take a wife regardless of his wants.

Brodin rode next to him. “I recognize that look you’re wearing. ‘Tis the same as what Graeme and Liam wore when they accepted their wives. Aye, your legs be a wee bit shoogly? You’re thinking it might too difficult are ye not?”

Liam laughed. “Aye, he’s got shaky legs all right. Heath, the lass is winsome. Almost as bonny as my Makenna. You’re fortunate and should be pleased by this turn of event.”

“Were you?”

His friend chortled. “Not at first, but now … I’m content, nay downright merry.”

Graeme peered at him and said, “Being married does have its benefits.”

Brodin scoffed. “Benefits that can be attained elsewhere.”

Both Liam and Graeme bellowed. Graeme said, “Aye? A wife warms your bed and your heart. I wouldn’t have my sweet William or another bairn on the way without her.”

Brodin shrugged his shoulder. “Being a father has softened you.”

“No softened, but made me more protective.” Graeme looked them firmly in the eyes as he admitted what he likely wouldn’t confess to anyone else.

Liam grinned and nodded. “Aye and all those trivial things that need tending are seen to. I never had someone sew my tunics, launder my garments. It’s tireless work and Makenna never complains.”

Brodin snorted. “To you she doesn’t.”

The men shared a laugh and Graeme waved him forward. “Let us on to your wedding.”

His wedding. There was nothing to do but resign himself. As they rode home, Heath left the watch to his comrades. All he could reason was that his life was about to become far more interesting. He swallowed hard never discerning he’d do what he was about to do.