Page 69 of The Dawn

“Been there, no worries, you’ll learn to ride, I’m sure of it. Necessity alone will force you to learn, but also, there is a positive aspect, way beyond transportation: it is really hot riding alongside them.”

I dusted powder on Ash’s nose.

Hayley said, her eyes dreamy and faraway, “I look at Fraoch’s knee, sticking out of his kilt, against his horse, and itslaysme.” She fanned herself. “How do modern women even like their husbands without seeing their knees like that on a horse?”

We laughed.

Emma said, “Just smile at him with those dimples, Ash, and Lochie will forgive you for not being good with riding.”

She nodded. “Okay, good advice, I won’t sweat the horses.”

Emma smeared a little bit of pale pink on Ash’s lips and then held up a mirror for her. “You look really beautiful.”

“Thank you.”

Hayley said, “But since we’ve been pretty positive, maybe we need to talk some sense too, you sure you’re ready for this? You’re about to tie yourself toLochinvarfor good or bad, you’re going to become his ride or die. You’ll be his make or break?—”

Emma said, “She understands, Hayley, no need to go negative, you’re going to freak her out.”

I said, “Lochinvar was an orphan growing up in a medieval castle who found out that he’s the brother of a king. Andstill, Ash is going to be the best thing that ever happened to him.”

Ash gulped. “You have a lot of faith in me, how do you know?”

“Because this decision, making him marry you was so good, it portends for a good future.”

Hayley said, “Yeah, you’ll be able to guide him, but if I could ask for a favor, if you could guide him into not taking Fraoch’s seat all the time, that would be great. Fraoch hates it when Lochie takes his chair.”

I laughed, “I don’t think any of us can stop the Campbell brothers from arguing.”

Hayley said, “Speaking of brothers, have you heard about Finch Mac?”

“Who, Finch Mac the musician... What about him?”

Hayley said, “He’s a brother.”

“Jeez Louise, no, really?”

Hayley nodded. “So what we’re saying is it will be really hard, full of danger, you gotta keep him in fighting shape, keep him from arguing with his elders, but also free concert tickets.”

“That’s some trade off.”

“Yeah. Worth it. Finch Mac is great.”

“What you’re saying is their dad got around.”

“All of them have different mothers, yep. We don’t talk about Donnan, the dad, if we can help it.” I gulped, I hated even saying his name. “They all had a claim to the throne, but it was Lady Mairead who made it happen for Magnus. She’s formidable.”

Hayley said, “You met her, she’s a Queen bitch. Don’t cross her, I do my best to never even talk to her, just don’t.”

Ash said, “Lochie thinks she’s a funny old broad.”

I groaned. “Your first job in civilizing him is to gently remind him to never say that in front of her.”

Ash asked, “Where is Fraoch’s mother?”

Hayley, Emma, and I all said, “Dead.”

Ash nodded and put out her arms. “So what do you think, do I look good for a wedding?”

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