Page 20 of Highland Hearts

The wrinkles in Cree’s brow deepened.

Dawn gestured.

“Aye, I am a man of my word, for what honor does a man have if he does not keep his word?” Cree’s wrinkled brow suddenly arched. “Cavell is counting on that but for what?” He shook his head. “This cannot just be about coins.”

Dawn agreed with a nod.

“So, what is it that Cavell truly wants from me and how far is he willing to go to get it?”

CHAPTER6

“The design of the village is remarkable,” Tate said, walking along one of the paths with Dawn.

She gestured, hoping the man would understand her.

Tate appeared confused for a moment, then he smiled. “William. You give William all the credit.”

Dawn smiled and nodded.

Tate shook a scolding finger at Dawn. “That is not entirely true, my lady. William mentioned that you had a strong hand in the design, and I believe much of what I am seeing is due to your talent. I would be pleased if you would draw the village for me so I may benefit from your skills.”

The man did nothing but praise her drawing talent, overly so to Dawn. She smiled softly and nodded.

“I will leave more parchment paper for you in the Great Hall,” Tate said and walked toward the watchtower gate.

“STOP!”

Cree’s booming voice halted Tate’s steps and his body quivered when he turned.

“You sought no permission to go beyond the tower gate,” Cree reprimanded.

“Forgive me, my lord,” Tate said humbly. “I did not realize.”

“My wife should have,” Cree said, sending her a scathing look. “Where is Beast?”

“The large dog is with the children,” Tate said.

“My wife needs no one to speak for her,” Cree reprimanded again.

Tate wisely remained silent as he lowered his head.

Dawn gave her husband a quick gesture.

“I do not care if you wish to show him the view. The rules are meant to be obeyed,” Cree said harshly. “Return to the other keep. Work is going to be done in this area and no one is allowed here until it is finished.” He turned and strode off without another word.

Tate was silent as they walked the paths once again, though this time it was to leave the village. He saw that Dawn seemed lost in her thoughts and once they were on the road back to the old keep, he asked, “I am sorry I got you in trouble with your husband. I meant no harm.”

Dawn shrugged and waved it off as unimportant.

“He must have much on his mind with William’s abduction. Does all go well with it?”

Dawn tapped her lips then moved her hands as if two people talked with each other.

“He negotiates,” Tate said, her gesture obvious and he was pleased when she nodded.

“How long do you think the negotiations will take?” he asked.

She held up three fingers.

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