Page 117 of Highland Queen

I inclined my head to Beric, Diarmad, and Calean who rode out ahead of the party. Fleance and Lulach, their dogs following behind them, trotted out behind the druids. While Angus ran on, Thor stopped by to give my hand a lick before he raced after Fleance.

When Balor passed, both Banquo and I bowed.

Balor returned the gesture.

His arm around me, Banquo and I watched as the druids turned their horses from the road and into the forest, blending in with the trees. A moment later, they were gone.

I sighed heavily.

“They’ll be back soon,” Banquo reassured me.

“I know. It’s just…they’re so changed.”

He nodded. “It’s for the best. You’ve raised good, strong boys, my Cerridwen. Now Balor will shape them into men.”

“Lulach’s spirit is inclined toward the holy life. He already has his first tattoo.”

Banquo nodded. “He showed me.”

“He may struggle to rule this nation.”

Banquo considered my words. “A mother’s worry is never misplaced, but Lulach’s thoughtful nature will make him a good ruler.”

“He is very like his father.”

Banquo stroked my hair gently. “And his mother. He will be a force to be reckoned with.”

“I hope.”

“Speaking of forces to be reckoned with,” Banquo said, touching my belly. “When will this one arrive with all her sound and fury?”

“Very soon, from the feel of it. Every time I go up the stairs, I feel like she wants to jump out.”

Banquo smiled. “I do not wish labor pains on you any sooner than needed, but I can’t wait.”

“Neither can I,” I said.

Banquo smiled down at me then and planted a soft kiss on my lips.

Turning, we headed back into the castle. Just off the castle yard near the stables, I noticed Killian watching. He was smoking a pipe, the smoke twisting up in the air around him. The great affection between Banquo and me was no secret in Lochaber, but when I felt Killian’s eyes on me, it made me remember I was a married woman. A twang of shame washed over me.

I pushed it away.

No. It wasn’t like that. I had married Banquo first, in the eyes of the gods, and Macbeth had abandoned me. Besides, Killian would never judge me. My own guilt was tripping me up.

But why?

Why would I ever feel guilty over betraying Macbeth?

Pushing my thoughts away, I headed back inside.

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