Page 66 of Fearless Heart

ChapterTwenty

Heath wanted desperately to hide, hide from his clan, and all the problems that seemed to swarm him since his return home. He needed to go after Lillia, but the call came alerting all within the walls that someone was at the gate. He yearned to reassure Lillia of his heart and that he no longer wanted to pursue his servitude. Somehow he’d figure out a way to do so, and until then, she’d be despaired. He didn’t like it one wee bit. This was the worse time to receive visitors. He only hoped it wasn’t James or the king’s army.

On his approach to the gate, he met John and Lagan, his father’s most trusted men. They’d now be his council and help him as he figured out how best to proceed with the clan. Since his father was confined to his chamber, he’d decide whether the visitors would be permitted entry. He would have gladly left the command to his brother, but Roderick wasn’t up to taking on his duties yet.

“’Tis but the Hunter clan, Laird,” John said.

Heath frowned at being called such. “I’m not laird, John, and ye shouldn’t address me as such.”

“Och your father bid us to. He said ye might as well get used to being called laird since you’ll be taking over his duties,” Lagan said.

“Now that Roderick has returned, that is not so. He will be laird, not I.”

“Aye, but ye are laird for now,” John said with a big grin, “Should we allow Hunter within the walls? Looks like he’s come with company.”

Heath turned and noticed Aylmer right off, for he stood taller than most. He hadn’t met those he traveled with, but they weren’t of the Hunter clan. Heath was certain of that. His council should be called upon, but the Hunters were longtime allies. He nodded. “Aye, raise the gate and allow them entrance.”

Aylmer dismounted and led his horse by the reins. “Heath,” he said in an uncivil tone.

“Laird Hunter, you are welcome. But I ken not who joins you.” He motioned to the men standing beyond him.

Aylmer scoffed and disregarded his followers. “I’ve come to collect my daughter. Where is she?”

“How did you know she was here?”

“James Douglas sent me a message. I want to see her at once.”

“About that …”

“I’ve brought her groom. The Sinclairs are of a forgiving nature. Her betrothed wants to retrieve what belongs to him, his bride. We shall finally get this wedding behind us.”

Heath grumbled a curse. He couldn’t send them away without incurring the wrath of the Hunters and the Sinclairs. Aylmer, at least, deserved an explanation. He couldn’t care less about the Sinclairs.

“Allow the Sinclairs entrance, but have them come and await Hunter in the courtyard.” Heath walked forward with Hunter trailing. Hunter spoke with his lad, indicating the care of his horse. Heath took the opportunity to have a word with his mother who he met at the door.

“Who comes? Should I be worried?”

“Nay, it’s only Hunter and he’s brought the Sinclairs.”

“Oh no. Your da told me Lillia was betrothed to a Sinclair. Are you sure they haven’t come to war with us? Mayhap you should sound the alarm, call the men-at-arms.”

Heath shrugged his shoulder. “There’s no need for alarm, Mother. I will see to Hunter and the Sinclairs.” He signaled to John and Lagan to call all their men to the courtyard. If there was going to be war or even the slightest threat, he’d damned well be ready to face it.

“We should turn them away or at least have a show of force.”

“Mother, there is no reason to. I’ve given permission for them to enter. I hope to remedy these matters, this day, once and for all with propriety not arms.” He turned to Aylmer. “Laird Hunter, we should discuss the matter of Lillia in private.”

“Aye, the Sinclairs will await me. James Douglas told me that Lillia found her way to you in Dumfries. He said I would likely find her here on Fraser land. Is this true?”

Heath nodded and led Aylmer into the hall. “It is. She and I …” He didn’t know why he hesitated. It was best to bespeak his news and hastily. “We married months ago, before I returned to visit my da.”

Aylmer’s face brightened. His bulbous nose appeared to redden. “I never believed ye to be deceitful, lad. You dare wed my daughter without my leave?”

Heath had to stand his ground. He set his hands on his hips and nodded firmly. “Aye I did. You were going to wed her to a Sinclair. She didn’t want to belong to that clan. You gave her no choice, did you not?”

“Lillia has no choice but to follow my orders. I’m her father.”

“But you’re not her father. She despaired that you didn’t tell her the truth of her birth. You’ve put her in danger. If anyone is affronted, it is Lillia, and I, her husband.”