Page 7 of Torin and His Oath (Torin and the Princess #2)

LEXI

W e broke from the trees onto a narrow path that split in two.

Torin reined in the horses, studying both directions. The midday sun beat down, warm and bright, his jaw was tight.

He turned our horse north, then south.

I asked, “Are you thinking?”

“Aye, I am torn which way tae go.”

I said, “ We should decide, I think.”

He chuckled softly. “Aye, I suppose we ought tae since we might be here in Scotland for a time.”

I shivered. “Don’t say that. I’m trying to ignore it. Just tell me my options — it all looks like endless woods and mountains as far as my eyes can see.”

He pointed north. “Well, ye see, Princess, there is Ben Macdui, snow on its crown even in May. The path cuts through a pass — a good road, but steep.” He pointed.

“Tis hidden in the cleft of the hills, and would lead us north. Few souls there, save for ruffians and scoundrels who take advantage of its quiet. No shelter, no safety, but fewer eyes.”

I swallowed hard.

Then he gestured south. “There, beyond the trees, ye see the bend of the glen?”

I nodded.

“The road runs east toward the towns. Perth lies that way. Familiar ground, but crowded. And the men who menaced us earlier? They went south. If word spreads that a croft was burned and men slain, villagers will be lookin’ for the rogues who caused it.”

“That would be us, huh?”

He nodded once.

“Which way do you think we should go?”

“I am tempted tae go north, the seclusion would keep ye safe. But…” Lambo stamped impatiently. “I will let ye choose.”

I looked from one road to the other. North: cold, lonely, dangerous. South: crowded, suspicious… but maybe easier. My stomach growled.

“This way,” I said, pointing south. “Better terrain, warmer, and besides, we aren’t villains. We’re nice people, just out for a ride, causing no trouble at all.”

I added, “And I’m starving, and I really want a comfortable bed.”

Torin said, “Aye, we must get the Princess a hearth and a board before nightfall.”

He turned our horses south.