Page 22 of The Scottish Bride

“Fine. There is an order, but we will talk about it later,” Comyn said.

“I expect to be sent to a convent. Just give me the news.”

Malise huffed. “Why a convent?”

“A woman who takes the veil gives up the rights to her property.”

“Priories are havens for widows, but Edward can still marry you off as he likes.”

“A widow may choose her own. Though my brother may find me a good match.”

“Henry Keith!” Malise crossed his arms. “Have you heard from him lately?”

“Not recently. He rides for King Edward and I pray daily for his safety.”

“Pray hard, then. He was given a task that will put him in harm’s way.”

Alarmed, she narrowed her eyes. “Where is he?”

“Go to your chamber.” His voice was flat, dismissive.

“Do you know, Sir Patrick?” She turned.

“I have not heard this news, my lady.”

She folded her hands. “I want to know what concerns me and mine.”

Malise ignored her. “Campbell, show me on the map where you and your men went searching for Bruce.” He tapped a page spread on the table.

“Sir, ’tis courtesy to answer the lady,” Sir David said.

“Since you will insist, come here.” Malise took her arm in a firm grip. “We will talk now. Silence that hound, will you.”

Tamsin hushed the growling dog, curling her fingers tighter around Oonagh’s collar. As Malise pulled her toward a shadowy corner, the canny hound pressed between her and the knight.

Malise loomed over her. “Dalrinnie is mine now. You need to understand that.”

“But my husband left the grant to me.” Flexing her fingers in the dog’s gray coat, she felt Oonagh lean into her, protective, trembling with stilled power.

“Would you question Edward of England?” He gave her a thin smile. “I was in a private audience at Lanercost while he decided the fate of Dalrinnie and its widow.”

“I would think the king would prefer a more experienced commander here.”

He bristled visibly. “This location is crucial, being so near Ettrick Forest. And I assisted your husband often in the effort here. He took me into his confidence. I came here often and did what I could to help.”

She gave a bitter laugh. “He thought well of you. But when he lay dying, you rode off to the king carrying tales. Now you return as its commander. That seems deliberate.”

“You wound me, madam. I took the news to the king in haste.”

“You hurried so he would decide in your favor.” Breathing fast, she felt sparks rise within.Silence,she told herself.

“I thought only to protect you. A lady alone needs a friend.” He smiled again.

Once that charming smile would have fooled her. Now, she felt wary. “I am protected enough.”

“Sir David? Your absent brother? I doubt it.”

“Tell me the king’s decision.”