Page 25 of Treachery in the Highlands

"Well, Finnegan," I say to myself, "you've really done it this time."

I slump onto the cot, wincing as something that feels suspiciously like a rock digs into my back through the thin mattress.The last rays of sunset filter through the arrow-slit, casting long shadows across the stone floor.My throat still burns from Kieran's grip, and I gingerly touch the tender skin, wondering if I'll have a necklace of bruises by morning.

If I live to see morning.

Shortly after Kieran's footfalls fade away, I hear someone removing the wooden bar that keeps me in.I glance around for anything I might use as a weapon, but of course, I find nothing.

The door swings open---and Alyssa hurries inside.She makes a shushing motion with her finger.

If she's trying to seduce me...yeah, sure, Finnegan, that's what she wants.What a moron.

The lady of the house approaches me.She speaks in a half whisper."I'm going out that door to grab a few things for you."

"No offense, ma'am, but your husband will slice and dice me if you do that."

She shakes her head."Notthatdoor.The one behind you."

Turning in that direction, I suddenly understand."A secret door?"

"Yes.Now wait here."

Alyssa disappears through the hidden doorway.

I stand and pace the small room, five steps one way, five steps back.Medieval prison cells aren't known for their spaciousness, I guess.The stone walls seem to close in, but I take slow, deep breaths to calm myself.

The secret door swings open.Alyssa gently pushes it shut with one foot while clinging to the large bundle in her arms.

I move to help with her burden.

She shakes her head again.

All I can do is lean against the wall while she does...whatever.As she unfolds her bundle, things become clearer.I whisper, "Is that a different mattress?"

She nods.

"And decent sheets?"

She nods again.

Alyssa swiftly replaces the mattress, then changes the linens.Once she's done, she points toward the far corner.Still speaking softly, she tells me, "That chamber pot in the corner is for relieving yourself.The jug on the table is full of water."

"How did you sneak that in here?"

"I didn't.Lachina sometimes comes up here to be alone and think.She left the water and chamber pot here."Alyssa tiptoes to the door but pauses with her hand on the knob."Sleep tight, Joey."

"Why on earth would you help me?"

"Because Kieran is freaking out for no reason, and he'll figure that out in the morning."She gives me a tight smile."Rachel was very upset about the situation, but she'll be fine, don't worry.MacTaggart women are tough."

Alyssa walks out, shutting the door and sliding the wooden bar into place.

Shuffling over to the cot, I settle onto it and grab the water jug, sipping the contents.It tastes like water.No obvious poison.So, I'll probably live to see another day in medieval Scotland.

Woo-hoo.

Chapter Ten

Rachel