Page 104 of Love Me Forever
“Of course you shall,” Royce said. “And did he instruct you to guard his sister?”
William almost choked on the bread. He quickly took a swallow of ale and cleared his throat. “He ordered me to keep a watchful eye on Brianna, but he made it clear that she was in good and safe hands with you.”
“An extra pair of watchful eyes always helps,” Royce said and turned to John. “You know what to do. I will be my wife’s constant companion. It will only be a matter of time before Arran attempts to take Brianna. Allow no strangers near the keep and make certain the whole village is watchful.”
John nodded, grabbed a few slices of meat and bread, and hurried off.
“Enjoy the food and then rest. Your journey has been a long one, and I am grateful for your courage and determination in getting Ian’s message to us.”
William nodded, his mouth full of food.
Brianna reached out and touched William’s arm.”Thank you.”
He finished his food. “Ian is anxious to see you.”
“And I him. Now eat and rest and I will see you later.”
Royce stood and helped Brianna off the bench. He requested a light fare be brought to his solar. He and Brianna needed to talk.
She hesitated on the staircase, the babe more active than usual.
Royce was concerned. “This has upset you.”
She shook her head and continued up the staircase. “I have been expecting it. I knew Arran could not be trusted, but...” She remained silent until they entered the solar and Royce closed the door. “I had not thought he wished me dead.”
Royce took her in his arms. “I will not let him hurt you.”
She eased out of his arms and rubbed at her stomach, the babe protesting. “I know that, but I also know how tenacious Arran can be. When he wants something, he goes after it with a vengeance. And what belongs to him...” She did not finish; she could not, for memories rose up to disturb her.
Royce went to her and took her gently by the shoulders. “Listen to me, Brianna, I understand your fear of your husband. You lived that fear every day you were with him, but you are with him no more. You are mine now and will remain so. Arran can be as tenacious as he wants, but this time he has chosen a foe that is more tenacious than he. He will not succeed; he is doomed to fail. I will make certain of it.”
She smiled, for the babe gave her a hardy kick. “Your child agrees with you.”
His hand went to her stomach, and he grinned at the activity he felt. “The child knows his father well.”
“And makes his opinions known.”
“Like his father.”
Brianna grew quiet and rested her head on his shoulder. “I do not want to lose what I have with you.”
He wrapped his arms tightly around her. “I have taken care of you since first we met, and I will continue to do so. We will love, you and I, forever and ever.”
“Do you think that is long enough?” she asked with a teasing laugh.
“Nay, not even eternity loving you would be enough.”
She raised her head and placed her hand to his cheek. “No matter what happens, always remember that I love you.”
A tingle ran down Royce’s spine. An omen? He had not feared battle, for loss was part of battle whether defeated or victorious. He had not feared losing his life, for that was always a possibility when entering a battle. This battle, however, was different. He feared losing Brianna and his child, and that tore at his heart. He could not imagine life without her. He would do everything to protect her, but as in any battle, the outcome was yet to be determined. He intended to be victorious, for he understood that his opponent did not play fair—and neither would he.
He would do anything, anything to protect Brianna.
CHAPTER28
Strangers passing by or seeking shelter in the village were carefully watched, and no stranger was allowed anywhere near the keep. Everyone in the clan remained
watchful and cautious, having been alerted to the fact that Brianna was in danger.
