Page 118 of Love Me Forever

“They are plotting,” Ian said with a firm nod. “I know my wife and she plots.”

“I have enough to be concerned about; now I must worry about plotting women?”

“I would make it your top concern.”

Royce rubbed his forehead. “What could they be plotting?”

Ian scratched his head and gave the question thought.

“Knowing my wife and her independent nature, I would say she is attempting to help my sister be ready in case Arran should succeed in abducting her.”

Royce stared at him.

Ian nodded. “I know the feeling; Moira leaves me speechless at times.”

“Arran will get nowhere near Brianna, and even if he did, what could she do to protect herself? She is a mere woman and with the burden of child.”

“I have no answer for you, though it might be wise that she be prepared in case she is faced with the situation. Warriors always prepare for battle. Why not Brianna?”

“She is not strong enough to defend herself.”

“Not physically, but we both know that a battle is often fought with one’s wits.”

“This is difficult for me to comprehend,” Royce said. “My thought is that I must protect Brianna.”

“And you do, but as in battle, being prepared for the unexpected could mean the difference between victory and defeat.”

“I have learned this well. That is why I am always prepared, and I feel Brianna need not worry.”

“What would you do if Arran succeeded in abducting her?” Ian asked.

“That will not happen.” Royce refused to believe it even possible. He would protect her and keep her safe.

“But if it did,” Ian insisted. “What then?”

Royce was just as insistent. “It will not happen.”

“You are as stubborn as my sister.”

“Determined,” Royce corrected with a laugh and a slap to Ian’s back. “Besides, the women make plans. Though it is not necessary, at least they enjoy themselves.”

Ian shook his head. “You have much to learn about Brianna.”

“Do you not have much yet to learn about Moira?”

Ian looked to his wife, her smile wide, her cheeks flushed, and her dark, thick, long plaited hair. “I am forever learning about her.”

“Then we will never be bored, will we?”

‘True enough.” Ian shifted his glance to his sister. She looked radiant, her dark hair pinned up, her hands resting protectively over her rounded stomach and her smile precious.”My sister means much to me.”

“I know this.”

Ian was honest with Royce. “When Arran returned, I would have much preferred to run a sword through him for all the pain he had caused so many. Unfortunately that was not possible.”

“Had you decided what you intended to do with him?”

“It was only a matter of time before he did something himself. His words of regret and forgiveness meant nothing. He meant to charm and misdirect so that what he truly planned was not suspected, and that would give him the freedom to accomplish his true intentions.”