Page 12 of Highland Hearts

“You did not think you would ever find love,” —he smiled and gave her bottom a gentle squeeze— “then you found me, and love claimed us both.”

Dawn nodded and cuddled comfortably against her husband, her eyes drifting closed.

Cree watched his wife drift off in slumber only then did he allow himself to do the same, knowing she was content and safe there in his arms.

* * *

“Watch him,”Cree ordered Sloan, his eyes on Tate and how he maintained a constant smile and talked with just about everyone he came across.

“Aye, I will make certain he is watched,” Sloan said.

“And make sure my daughter does not get into any trouble while I am gone.”

“That is not something I can promise you.” Sloan laughed and walked away as Dawn approached.

“I will miss you, wife,” Cree said, drawing his wife against him in a hug.

Dawn tugged at the braid on the one side of his head that she had plaited for him only a couple of hours ago and mouthedstay safe.

“For you always,” he said and planted a kiss on her lips that was meant to linger there.

Dawn was familiar with the kiss. He always gave her a powerful kiss when he was riding off into an uncertain situation. It was his way for her to always remember him if something should happen to him.

She hugged him tight and gestured when they parted.

“Aye, wife, I will be home soon enough,” he assured her.

She smiled and sent him a playful wink.

He laughed, “I definitely will be home before nightfall.”

Cree led his troop of warriors through the village, but instinct had him turning to take another glance at his wife, and a scowl marred his handsome features when he saw the artist Tate scurry toward her and start talking. There was something about the man he did not trust, but he did trust his wife. And he was glad to see Beast by her side. The faithful dog would let nothing happen to her.

Nothing would stop him from returning as soon as he could and as soon as he did, he would find out what the man had said to Dawn.

CHAPTER4

“Afew moments of your time, Lady Dawn,” Tate said with a slight bow of his head as he approached her.

Dawn responded, holding up two fingers close together.

“I understand what you say. You are emphasizing only a few moments,” Tate said proudly.

Dawn nodded with a smile, remaining where she stood, waiting for him to continue.

“I was warned against coming to the Highlands. I was told it was a savage place and while I have seen that for myself in my travels here, I must admit I have found things that have also surprised and fascinated me. The symbols carved into stones I have seen are remarkable. Some are crude while others are done with a skilled hand, an artistry that is surprising as are the stone crosses. They are beautifully sculpted. In its own way, artistry does reside in the Highlands and now I wonder of your talent. Could you possibly sketch something quickly for me? I have a patron who blessed me with parchment. He would be overjoyed seeing drawings of the Highlands. A quick sketch of a favorite spot of yours perhaps?”

Dawn gestured slowly but Tate shook his head. “I am afraid I do not understand what you say.”

“Lady Dawn says to give her a piece of parchment and charcoal and she will do a sketch for you when she has a chance,” Lila said, walking from behind Tate to stand beside Dawn.

“You understand Lady Dawn easily, but I suppose most here do,” Tate said.

“Lady Dawn and I have been friends since we were young,” Lila said and smiled at Dawn, who smiled and nodded in return.

“Then you must have spoken for her often,” Tate said.

Lila chuckled. “Lady Dawn needs no one to speak for her. She has always made herself heard.”

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