Page 111 of Love Me Forever

“How?”

“You must be ready for anything. Arran is devious and will stop at nothing to have what he wants.”

“As was his way,” Brianna said.

“Aye, and you know he has not changed, so you must be prepared. Do not take chances. Do as Royce tells you and make certain a guard remains with you at all times.”

Brianna winced.

“I know it is not easy, especially after a taste of independence, but this is most necessary. And now you not only have yourself to think of, you have your child.”

“You are right; I have been selfish in my thoughts.”

“It is difficult to have someone constantly following you about.”

“I forget it was the same for you,” Brianna said with regret. “I am so sorry my husband caused my family so much distress, particularly you.”

“It is not your fault. You have nothing to apologize for. You need to concern yourself with you now. You know Arran will attempt to take you from Royce.”

Brianna nodded. “I have no doubt he will make an attempt. Royce has prepared well for any intruders. The whole clan has.”

“You sound doubtful.”

“If Arran penetrated my brother’s defensives, why could he not penetrate these?”

“That is why you must be vigilant to all that goes on around you. Pay special heed to your senses, for they will alert you to possible problems.”

“The question is what if Arran succeeds? What then is my fate? Royce believes he wishes me dead.”

“The ransom would only be exchanged when you stood in front of Royce or your brother.”

“Much can happen in between that time,” Brianna said and shivered.

“Then build your strength and your confidence. It may not be needed, but it will be ready if necessary. Arran will be expecting the weak woman who once was his wife. He will not know how to deal with you if you show him strength and courage.”

“I had not thought of that, but you are right. If I do not cower but defy him, he will not know how to respond to me.”

“It may never come to that. He could be discovered and his plans thwarted.”

“But it is better to be prepared, and it will help to chase my fears.”

“That it will,” Moira agreed with a smile. “Now I am hungry; shall we eat and speak of more pleasant things?”

“Aye, I am famished and feeling much better. Thank you yet again for your help. It is wonderful to finally have a sister.”

The two women hugged and set about enjoying the food.

* * *

The men continuedtheir talk in the great hall. Ale flowed freely and food was brought out in intervals.

“There is no more to do but wait. A game I do not favor,” Royce said, dusting crumbs off his hands from the bread he had enjoyed.

“I have sent men out to see what they could discover, but Arran has a way of disappearing.” Ian refilled his tankard.

“I attempted the same, and you are right, the man does have a talent for disappearing without a trace.”

“It frustrates, but it is certain he will surface again.”