Page 83 of Wolf Heir

Aisling and her mother joined Coinneach, and he hugged them both in a heartfelt embrace.

Rupert instantly defended his mother. “I dinna know where you got that idea, but ‘tis no’ true.”

“I mean my real and only son, Coinneach.”

Morag fainted as an accumulated gasp went over the pack members.

“I have come to learn that Rupert is Osmond’s son.”

“Mother, how could you?” Rupert said, sounding indignant.

She recovered. “I told you that years ago.”

So Rupert was well aware of the deception. But did he know that she had tried to kill Orla’s baby?

“I could sentence you to death for this horrific plan of yours,” Hamish said.

“My laird,” Blair said. “I know you are deeply offended, but I believe she will feel the regret of her actions more if she and Rupert are banished from the pack. By his own words, he had Gormelia attempt to murder Aisling. So he is no’ an innocent in these matters.”

“Does anyone want to join them?” Hamish asked, making a pointed look at the guards who had been at Morag’s chamber door.

Nobody said a word.

“Aodhan, Tristan, bring the other guards up from the dungeon.”

“Aye, my laird.” Tristan hurried off, and Aodhan quickly joined him.

Hamish said to Morag and Rupert, “Leave the castle grounds at once.”

“I must pack,” Morag said.

“You leave with all that you have on your back. You deserve no more.”

She headed for the stable.

“Halt! You willna take one of my fine horses.”

“You gave them to Rupert and me.”

“And I take them away. Dinna you see, woman, that you are getting off easy? If I had my way, you both would be dead for your murderous plots. It doesna matter that they were unsuccessful.”

“One was successful,” she muttered under her breath.

“What’s that you say?” Hamish asked.

“Naught, my laird. We’re going now.” Morag stomped off.

Rupert looked back at the castle as if wishing he could stay here and not be stuck living out in the world.

“Go with your mother, Rupert. I dinna want to see you a second longer.”

Then the guards who had been put in the dungeon joined the chief and repledged their loyalty. So did the ones who had been staying at Morag’s chamber.

All his men, including Coinneach pledged their undying loyalty. Aisling smiled at him.

Aodhan said, “Come fight me, Coinneach.”

“Not before he fights me,” Hamish said.