Page 108 of Highlander Lord Of Vengeance

“But there is,” Esme insisted.

“And what is that?” he snapped prepared to argue with her.

“That I accept. I would be honored to be your wife, Ryland.”

The door rushed open and Brack hurried in. “Chieftain Roland of Clan Rennoch approaches with a troop of warriors.

CHAPTER 30

Word traveled fast in the Highlands—faster than even a horse could ride when rumor ran hot with talk of betrayal and blood.

Chieftain Roland of Clan Rennoch rode through the village with a troop of twenty warriors, their presence turning heads and causing whispers.

Ryland, still cloaked in Torrance’s name and title, stood on the steps of the keep as Roland came to a stop in front of him and dismounted. His deep-set eyes gleamed with concern, but Ryland wondered what truly was in his thoughts.

“I heard of the attack in the woods,” Roland said. “Word is… someone seeks your death. I have come to offer my support.” He looked past Ryland to the keep, then to the warriors who stood as sentinels along the walls. “And prove that clan Rennoch is loyal to you.”

“A wise decision, Roland,” Ryland said and offered no hand in greeting. “How does your father fare in the dungeon?” A reminder that Clan Rennoch’s betrayal still weighed on his mind.

“He suffers his punishment as best he can.”

That news matched what Brack heard from the warriors Ryland had left there to keep watch over Rennoch since he didn’t trust them.

“I’ve placed men beyond your sentinels—silent watchers hidden where none will see. If any troops approach, we’ll know before they reach the village. The rest of my warriors will make camp along the outskirts.” He nodded toward the line of men behind him, each heavily armed with weapons and ready to fight. “Better to be cautious, aye?”

Ryland gave a single nod. “Aye, see to setting up your camp. We can talk later.”

Roland bobbed his head. “My lord.”

Ryland watched until he disappeared behind the rows of thatched cottages. Then, with a glance at Brack, he turned on his heels. “My solar. Now.”

They entered the room, and Ryland closed the door behind them with quiet precision. No guards to hear, just the two of them.

Brack leaned against the heavy oak table, arms crossed. “You don't trust Roland.”

“Nay,” Ryland said. “I don’t. That attack at the celebration was meant to be victorious, meant to see me, Esme, and every one of my warriors dead. His surrender and compliance came too easily.”

Brack arched a brow. “I agree.”

“That matter can wait for a moment. There is something more important I need to discuss with you.”

Brack straightened, prepared to listen.

“I don’t think this will come as a surprise to you.” Ryland paused, since what he was about to say would change everything. “I’m not Torrance. He is dead, killed by one of his own warriors.” His words were steady despite the weight behind them. “I’m Ryland. His twin.”

Silence followed his announcement. Outside, the wind stirred faintly, as if the Highlands themselves paused to listen.

Brack didn’t move. Didn’t blink. Didn’t look surprised. Then he finally spoke. “Torrance is dead. You are sure of it?”

“I am sure. He was food for many an animal.”

“Why did you take his place and what makes you think you are his twin?” Brack asked, continuing to show not an ounce of surprise or concern.

Ryland gave a curt nod at the table. “Sit and I will explain it all to you, though you don’t seem surprised.”

Brack sat after Ryland did. “I suspected… from the beginning.”

Ryland frowned. “Yet you never said anything.”

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