Page 36 of Claimed by the Clan Chief

He held her close, his mouth sealed on hers and their bodies moulded together.

She became lost in his kiss. Lost in him and the future they’d have. She’d never been happier or more content with the stars above and what fate had planned. Destiny had happened. She’d seen, she’d wanted, she’d ensured she’d gotten the man of her dreams.

McTavish stood, tugging her with him. Carefully he placed the ring on her finger. “You will wear this always?”

“Aye, with pride. You are a fine Highlander.”

“It pleases me that you think that.” He glanced at the riverbank and curled his fingers around her hand. “I don’t want you to get cold. We will use these stepping stones to get back.”

She followed him, safe in the knowledge he’d catch her if she slipped.

Once on the bank he turned to her. “We will marry with haste. I do not wish for you to work as a maid another day.”

She nodded.

“A life with me will be different to the one you are used to.”

“I do not wish for the life of a servant.”

“I agree. You are much too special for that. Too clever also.”

“You really think that?”

“Aye, you are an exceptional healer and a carer on top of that.”

She glanced away.

“What?”

“I have to be cautious.”

“I ken what you’re saying.”

“You do.” She turned back to him, studied his mismatched eyes.

“Aye, my mother had the same situation.”

Isla nodded, hoping he’d go on and say what she suspected from his previous mention of his mother.

“She understood herbs and plants, would sing to herself too. Always had a fondness for the full moon. So I understand the need to keep your expertise quiet. The villagers are a superstitious lot. Backward when it comes to understanding the progression of medicine and some women’s needs.”

“You really believe that?”

“Aye, I’m a man of the world. I have visited Edinburgh, France, and once London. This is a time of great change. The only thing holding up progression is the lack of the true king ruling. When that happens this country can continue to learn and grow.”

“I agree with you.” She paused. “And I’m glad you appreciate that I’m a wee bit different to other women.”

“Of course I appreciate that, it’s one of the many things I adore about you. But what I will say is you must be careful, Isla. Do not give these heathens a cause to think of you anything other than a simple girl who has a way with cats and a fondness for flowers.” He hesitated. “And do not let others ken you dance and chant in the moonlight in the forest yonder.”

She gasped. “What do you ken?”

“Naught, lass. And that’s the way it should be. Hold your secrets close to your heart, it’s the only way to truly be safe.”

Isla nodded. This man before her understood more than she ever could have dreamed. Without even having to bare her soul he ken her situation.

“And now,” he said. “We should talk about us.”

“We should?” The sun was warming her shoulders and drying her hair. She was thankful for the pleasant spring day. “What about us?”

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