Page 119 of Love Me Forever

“Abducting Brianna,” Royce said, glancing at his wife, who was deep in her own conversation with Moira. “But I feel there is more to his intentions than just Brianna.”

“Brianna serves a purpose to Arran. She will bring him a fat purse so that he may start over someplace else, perhaps farther south or to the outer Isles. There is nothing left for him here, and he is wise enough to know that. So once again he uses Brianna for his own means.”

“Not this time.”

There was a conviction to his words that could not be denied.

“We should not underestimate him,” Ian said. “He is a troubled man and that can make him dangerous.”

“Far too dangerous, which means he will stop at nothing to accomplish his goal.”

“I think him anxious and that could cause him to make a mistake.”

“Aye, I agree his patience is running out,” Royce said.

“Then he will make another move soon.”

“I do not doubt it, and I expect it will be as foolish as his last attempts.”

Ian sat back in his chair. “There is nothing to do then but to wait.”

To everyone’s surprise several weeks passed and not a word was heard from Arran. The surrounding countryside was quiet with a stranger passing through the village now and again. Guards remained posted and watchful, but daily routine once again became common, and soon many gave the threat of Arran not a thought.

Moira and Ian began to miss their son, and Brianna thought it unfair that they should remain when there was nothing they could actually do to help the situation. It was nice having them there, but their presence was not necessary.

“It is time for you to leave,” Brianna announced one day over the morning meal.

Ian seemed surprised; Moira did not.

“I was thinking the same myself,” Moira said. “I miss my son and all at the keep.”

“You are throwing us out?” Ian asked with a laugh.

Brianna shook her head slowly. “I enjoy you both here, but there is no reason for you to stay. Your son probably misses you, and your life is there with him as mine is here with Royce.” She reached for her husband’s hand where he sat beside her at the long table.

“Brianna is right,” Royce said. “Go home to your son and worry not. All will be fine.”

“I will return in two months’ time for the birth,” Moira said.

Brianna rested a hand on her protruding stomach. “I cannot believe that in such a short time the babe will arrive. I am relieved to know that you will be here with me.

“I would not miss it, and I know if Anne is well, she will insist on helping as well.”

“Since the decision of our departure appears to have been made, we will leave early tomorrow morning,” Ian said.

“I will have some of my men accompany you,” Royce said.

“I have enough men, I do not think that will be necessary.”

“I do,” Royce insisted, “at least until you leave Campbell land.”

Ian knew it was senseless to argue. He shrugged. “If you wish.”

“Come, Brianna,” Moira said, standing. “We have this one day together to discuss final preparations for the birthing, and then all will be ready upon my return.”

Royce helped Brianna out of the chair. Not that she needed help, but he was an attentive man, and she had grown accustomed to his attention. He did not follow the women, though two guards did without any objection from Brianna.

“Are you certain that you do not require my presence?”