Julie Garwood- Saving Grace

[Dalyia]

Finding the little boy turned out to be quite a challenge. She went downstairs and stood at the entrance to the great hall* waiting for one of the soldiers to notice her. There were four men tearing at the far wall and another three high up on the roof* working on the slats.

Everyone seemed to notice her at once. The pounding stopped. Since they were all staring at her* she made a curtsy in greeting before asking if they knew where Alex might be.

No one answered her. She was feeling extremely selfconscious. She repeated her question but kept her gaze centered on the soldier standing in front of the hearth. He smiled* scratched his beard* and then shrugged at her.

Finally Gabriel's first-in-command explained. "They don't understand you* m'lady."

She turned to the soldier and smiled. "They speak only Gaelic* m'lord?"

"Aye*" he answered. "They speak only Gaelic. Please* you needn't call me your lord. I'm only a soldier here. Calum will do."

"As you wish* Calum."

"You're a bonny lass* wearing our plaid."

He seemed embarrassed giving her that compliment. "Thank you*" she answered* wondering what the word bonny meant.

She turned back to the men watching her and asked them her question in Gaelic. She frowned with concentration. The language was difficult* tongue twisting in fact when she was so nervous inside* but when she'd finished her question* only one of the older men openly winced. The others smiled.

Still no one answered her. They all turned to stare at the hem of her gown. She looked down to see if something was amiss. Then she turned to Calum* hoping for an explanation. His eyes* she noticed* sparkled with amusement. "You asked them if they'd seen your feet* m'lady."

"I meant to ask if they'd seen Gabriel's son*" she explained. Calum gave her the proper word to use. She again turned and repeated her question.

The men shook their heads. She thanked them for their attention and turned to leave. Calum hurried ahead of her to open the door.

"I must work on my accent*" she announced. "I could tell from that one gentleman's expression I was making a muck of it."

Aye* she was making a muck of it* Calum thought to himself. He wasn't about to agree* however* because he didn't want to injure her feelings.

"The men appreciate the fact that you're trying* m'lady."

"It's the burr* Calum*" Johanna decided. "I haven't quite captured it yet. It's a very challenging language*" she added. "You could be a help if you would."

"How?" he asked.

"From this moment on* speak only Gaelic when you address me. I believe I'll catch on much quicker if your language is all I hear."

"Certainly*" Calum agreed in Gaelic.

"Excuse me?"

"I said certainly* m'lady*" Calum explained.

She smiled. "Have you seen Alex?"

He shook his head. "He might be down at the stables*" he said. He spoke in Gaelic and pointed in the direction of the stables in an attempt to help her guess what he'd just said.

Because she was concentrating on interpreting what he was saying to her* she barely paid any attention to what was going on in the courtyard. There were soldiers everywhere* but she didn't notice what they were doing.

She finally figured out what Calum had said* blurted out her thank you* and went running across the yard.

She suddenly found herself in the middle of a sparring exercise. Calum grabbed her by her shoulders and pulled her back just in the nick of time. A lance nearly sliced her down the middle.

One of the Maclaurin soldiers let out a loud expletive. Gabriel had been watching the sparring from the opposite side of the yard. He saw his wife's near miss and immediately shouted a halt to the training session.

Johanna was horrified by her own behavior. Such inattention was shameful. She picked up the lance the soldier had dropped and handed it to the man. His face was flaming red. She didn't know if he was embarrassed or furious.

"Pray forgive me* sir. I wasn't watching where I was going."

The dark-haired soldier gave her a quick nod. Calum still had his hands on her shoulders. He gently tugged her back.

She turned to thank him for his quickness in coming to her aid. She spotted her husband coming her way. Her smile faltered when she took in the look on his face.

The soldiers were all staring at her. The MacBain warriors were smiling. The Maclaurins were frowning.

That mixed reaction confused her. Then Gabriel was standing in front of her* blocking her view. His attention was centered on Calum. He didn't say a word* just frowned at the soldier. Johanna realized Calum still had hold of her. The minute the soldier released his grip* his laird turned his attention and his scowl on her.

Her heart started pounding with her fear. She desperately tried to hold onto her composure. She wasn't about to let him know how frightened she was.

She decided not to give him time to berate her. "I was very inattentive* m'lord* sinfully so. I could have been killed."

He shook his head. "You could not have been killed. You insult Calum by suggesting he would have allowed you injury."

She wasn't going to argue with her husband. "I meant no insult*" she said. She turned to Calum. "Please accept my apology. I wished to soften my husband's anger with me by being the first to acknowledge my foolishness."

"Do you have a problem with your sight?" Gabriel asked.

"No*" she answered.

"Then why in God's name didn't you see my men were fighting with weapons?"

She mistook his exasperation for anger. "I have explained* m'lord. I wasn't paying attention."

Her husband didn't show any reaction to her explanation. He simply continued to stare at her. He was waiting for his temper to calm. Seeing his wife come so close to death had frightened the hell out of him. It was going to take him a long while to get over it.

A full minute passed in silence. Johanna thought her husband was considering her penance.

"I apologize for interrupting your important work*" she said. "If you wish to strike me* please do so now. The wait is becoming unbearable."

Calum couldn't believe what he'd just heard. "M'lady…"

He was stopped from saying more when Gabriel raised his hand for silence.

The second his hand moved* she backed up. It was a protective action learned from past lessons. She realized what she was doing and immediately moved forward again.

Her husband had best understand she wasn't going to let the past repeat itself. "I would warn you* m'lord. I cannot stop you from striking me* but the minute you do I'll leave this holding."

"Surely you cannot believe our laird would…"

"Stay out of this* Calum."

Gabriel gave his command in a hard voice. He was furious over the insult his wife had just given him* but damn it all* the fear was real. He had to remind himself that she didn't know him well and* therefore* had only jumped to the wrong conclusions. He took hold of Johanna's hand* started up the steps* then heard the pounding and immediately changed directions. He wanted privacy for this important discussion.

She tripped over the step when her husband turned* righted herself* and hurried to keep up. Calum shook his head as he watched his laird drag his mistress behind him. It wasn't Lady Johanna's awkwardness that caused him to frown but the paleness that had come over her complexion. Did she believe her laird was going to take her someplace private so he could beat her without an audience?

Keith* the red-haired leader of the Maclaurin soldiers* walked over to stand next to Calum. "What has you frowning?" he asked.

"Lady Johanna*" Calum answered. "Someone has filled her head with dark tales about our laird. I believe she's afraid of him."

Keith snorted. "Some of the women are already saying she's afraid of her own shadow. They've given her a nickname*" he added. "After just one look at her* they're calling her Courageous. 'Tis a pity* their mockery* for they're judging her without giving her a fair chance."

Calum was furious. In calling her Courageous* they* of course* meant just the opposite—they believed her to be a coward. "MacBain better not hear of this*" he warned. "Who started this blasphemy?"

Keith wasn't about to give him the name. The woman was a Maclaurin. "Who it was isn't important*" he argued. "The name caught on. The way Lady Johanna trembled at the sight of the laird's hound started some of the women smirking* and the frightened look in her eyes each time MacBain spoke to her made them conclude she was…"

Calum interrupted him. "She's timid* perhaps* but certainly not a coward. You'd best put the fear of God in your women* Keith. They think they're so damned clever with their game. If I hear the name from any Maclaurin* I'll retaliate."

Keith nodded. "It's easier for you to accept her*" he said. "But the Maclaurins aren't so forgiving. Remember* it was her first husband who destroyed all we'd worked so hard to build. It's going to take time for them to forget."

Calum shook his head. "A Highlander never forgets. You know that as well as I."

"Then to forgive*" Keith suggested.

"She had nothing to do with the atrocity done here. She doesn't require anyone's forgiveness. Remind the women of that important truth."

Keith nodded agreement. He didn't believe his reminder would make much difference* however. The women were set against her* and he couldn't imagine what he could say to change their opinions.

[Dalyia]

Both warriors kept their gazes on their laird and his bride and watched until they disappeared down the hill.

Gabriel and Johanna were quite alone now* but he still didn't stop. He continued walking until they reached the meadow. He wanted to rid himself of his anger before he talked to her.

He finally stopped. Then he turned to look at her. She wouldn't look at him. She tried to tug her hand away from his* but he wouldn't let go of her.

"You've given me a grave insult by suggesting I would harm you."

Her eyes widened in surprise. He sounded furious enough to kill someone. Yet he felt injured that she thought he would strike her.

"Have you nothing to say to me* wife?"

"I interrupted your training session."

"Yes* you did!"

"I almost caused a soldier to harm me."

"Yes!"

"And you appeared to be very angry."

"I was angry!"

"Gabriel? Why are you shouting?"

He let out a sigh. "I like to shout."

"I see."

"I had thought that in time you would learn to trust me. I have changed my mind. You will trust me*" he commanded. "Starting now* this minute."

He made it sound so simple. "I do not know if that is possible* m'lord. Trust must be earned."

"Then decide now that I've earned it*" he ordered. "Tell me you trust me* and mean it* damn it."

He knew he was asking the impossible. He sighed again. "No man is allowed to beat his wife here. Only a coward would mistreat a woman* Johanna. None of my men are cowards. You have nothing to fear from me or anyone else here. I will forgive you your insult because you didn't understand. I will not be as tolerant in future. You would do well to remember that."

She stared into his eyes. "But if I do insult you in future? What would you do?"

He didn't have the faintest idea* but he wasn't about to admit it. "It will not happen again."

Johanna nodded. She started to turn around to go back to the courtyard* then changed her mind.

Her husband deserved an apology. "Sometimes I react before I have had time to think it through. Do you understand* m'lord? It seems to be instinctive. I really will try to trust you* and I thank you for your patience."

He could tell from the way she was wringing her hands together that her confession was difficult for her. Her head was bowed and her voice sounded with bewilderment when she added* "I don't understand why I expect the worst. I never would have married you if I'd believed you would mistreat me* yet there seems to be a tiny part of me that has difficulty believing."

"You please me* Johanna."

"I do?"

He smiled over the surprise in her voice. "You do*" he repeated. "I know the confession was difficult for you. Where did you think you were going when you tried to run through a lance?" He added the question in an effort to change the subject. His wife looked like she might start weeping at any moment and he wanted to help her calm her emotions.

"To find Alex. I thought we could take a walk to look over the holding."

"I ordered you to rest."

"I was going to take a restful walk. Gabriel* there's a man crawling on all fours behind you."

She whispered the news and moved closer to her husband. He didn't turn around to look. He didn't need to. "That's Auggie*" he explained.

Johanna moved to stand next to her husband so she could get a closer look at the man. "What is he doing?"

"Digging holes."

"Why?"

"He uses his staff to hit stones into the holes. It's a game he enjoys."

"Is he daft?" she whispered* lest the old man overhear her.

"He won't harm you. Leave him be. He has earned his leisure."

Her husband took hold of her hand and started back up the hill. Johanna kept glancing back over her shoulder to get a better look at the man crawling his way across the meadow. "He's a MacBain*" she blurted out. "He's wearing your plaid."

"Our plaid*" her husband corrected. "Auggie's one of us*" he added. "Johanna* Alex isn't here. He was taken back to his mother's brother's family early this morning."

"How long will he be away?"

"Until the wall is finished. When the holding is secure* Alex will come home."

"And how long will that be?" she asked. "A son needs his father* Gabriel."

"I'm aware of my duties* wife. You needn't instruct me."

"But I may give my opinion*" she countered.

He shrugged.

"Have you begun work on your wall?" she asked.

"It's half done."

"Then how long before…"

"A few more months*" he answered. "I don't want you walking in the hills without a proper escort*" he added with a frown. "It's too dangerous."

"Is it too dangerous for all the women or just for me?"

He kept silent. She had her answer then. She held her exasperation. "Explain these dangers to me."

"No."

"Why not?"

"I haven't the time. Simply obey my commands and we'll get along quite well."

"Of course we'll get along if I obey your every command*" she muttered. "Honestly* Gabriel* I don't believe…"

"The horses are sound."

His interruption turned her concentration. "What did you say?"

"The six horses you gave me are sound."

She let out a sigh. "We're through discussing obedience* aren't we?"

"Aye* we are."

She laughed.

He grinned. "You should do that more often."

"Do what?"

"Laugh."

They'd reached the edge of the courtyard. Gabriel's manner underwent a radical change. His expression hardened. She thought the serious look was for the benefit of his audience. Every soldier was watching.

"Gabriel?"

"Yes?" He sounded impatient.

"May I offer an opinion now?"

"What is it?"

"It's daft to use the courtyard for your training session as well as dangerous."

He shook his head at her. "It wasn't dangerous until this morning. I want you to promise me something."

"Yes?"

"Don't ever threaten to leave me."

The intensity in his demand surprised her. "I promise*" she answered.

Gabriel nodded* then started to walk away. "I won't ever let you go. You do understand that* don't you?"

He didn't expect an answer. Johanna stood there for several minutes watching as her husband rejoined the training session. Gabriel was proving to be a complex man. Nicholas had told her the laird would marry her to secure the land. Yet Gabriel acted as though perhaps she were important to him* too.

She found herself hoping her guess was true. They would get along much better if he liked her.

She noticed Gabriel talking to Calum. The soldier glanced her way* nodded* and then started walking toward her. She didn't wait to find out what order her husband had given his first-in-command. She turned around and ran down the hill to the meadow. The MacBain soldier named Auggie intrigued her. She wanted to find out what game it was that required digging holes in the ground.

The elderly man had a stock of white hair. He stood up when she called out to him. Deep lines around his mouth and eyes made her guess him to be at least fifty years old* perhaps even older. He had beautiful white teeth* handsome brown eyes* and a warm* inviting smile.

Until she spoke to him. Johanna made a quick curtsy* then introduced herself in Gaelic.

He squeezed his eyes shut and grimaced as though in acute pain. "You're slaughtering our beautiful language* girl*" he announced.

He spoke so fast* his words tripped together* and his brogue was as thick as her mama's stew. Johanna didn't understand a word he'd said. Auggie was forced to repeat his insult three times before she gained the meaning.

"Please tell me* sir* which words I'm mispronouncing."

"You're doing a fair job ruining all of them."

"I would like to learn this language*" she persisted* ignoring his comical expression of horror over her accent.

"It would take too much discipline for an Englishwoman to become fluent*" he said. "You would have to concentrate. I don't believe you English have that ability."

Johanna couldn't understand much of what he said. Auggie dramatically slapped his forehead. "By all that's holy* you're taking the fun out of my insults* girl. You aren't understanding a word I'm saying."

He cleared his throat and spoke again* though this time in French. His command of the language was impressive* and his accent* impeccable. Johanna was impressed. Auggie was an educated man.

"I can see I've surprised you. Did you judge me simpleminded?"

She started to shake her head* then stopped herself. "You were crawling about on your knees* digging holes. I did jump to the conclusion you were a bit…"

"Crazed?"

She nodded. "I apologize* sir. When did you learn to speak…"

He interrupted her. " 'Twas years and years ago*" he explained. "Now what was it you wanted* interrupting me in the middle of my game?"

"I was wondering what your game was*" she said. "Why do you dig holes?"

"Because no one will dig them for me."

He snorted with laughter after giving her his jest.

"But your reason?" she persisted.

"The game I play requires holes to catch my stones if my aim is true. I use my staff as my club and round pebbles I strike forward. Would you like to have a try* lass? The game's in my blood. Perhaps you'll catch the fever* too."

Auggie took her arm and pulled her along to where he'd left his staff. He showed her how he wanted her to hold onto the wooden pole* and when she'd braced her shoulders and her legs just the way he believed she should* he stepped back to give her further instruction.

"Give it a good whack now. Aim for the hole straight ahead."

She felt ridiculous. Auggie really was a little daft. But he was also a gentle man* and her interest in what he was doing seemed to please him. She wasn't about to hurt his feelings.

She hit the round stone. It rolled to the edge of the hole* teetered* and then dropped in.

She immediately wanted to try again. Auggie beamed with pleasure. "You've caught the fever*" he announced with a nod.

"What is this game called?" she asked as she knelt to retrieve her pebble. She retraced her steps to her original position* tried to remember the correct stance* and then waited for Auggie to answer.

"The game doesn't have a name* but it dates back to olden days. Once you've mastered my short holes* lass* I'll take you along to the ridge with me* and you can try for distance. You'll have to do your part* though* and find your own stones. The rounder the better* of course."

Johanna missed on her second try. Auggie told her she wasn't paying attention. She had to try again* of course. She was so intent on pleasing him and hitting the hole* she didn't even realize they were now speaking Gaelic.

She spent a large part of the afternoon with Auggie. Calum had obviously been given the duty of watching out for her. He appeared at the top of the hill every now and then to make certain she was still there. And staying out of mischief* she supposed. After a few hours Auggie called a halt to the game and motioned her over to the opposite side of the meadow where he'd left his supplies. He took hold of her arm and let out a grunt when he lowered himself to the ground. Then he motioned her to sit beside him. He handed her a leather pouch.

"You're about to have a treat* lass*" he announced. "It's uisgebreatha."

"Breath of life*" she translated.

"Nay* water of life* girl. I've got my own brewing kettle* fashioned it myself after the one I studied at the MacKay holding. Our laird let me bring it along when we came to the Maclaurins. We're all castouts* you know* every one of us. I was a Maclead before I pledged myself to the MacBain."

[Dalyia]

Johanna was intrigued. "Cast out? I don't understand what you mean* sir."

"All of us were tossed out of our own clans for one reason or another. Your husband's fate was decided the day he was born a bastard. When he'd grown into manhood* he gathered us together and trained the younger ones to become fine warriors. Each of us has a talent* of course. You'll be tasting mine if you'll quit your lingering. I'm wanting a wee taste myself."

It would have been rude to decline the invitation. Johanna lifted the pouch* flipped the cork off* and took a sip of the liquid.

She thought she'd swallowed liquid fire. She let out a gasp* then started coughing. Auggie delighted in her reaction. He slapped his knee first* then pounded her between her shoulder blades to get her breathing properly again.

"It's got a fair bite to it* doesn't it?"

She could only nod agreement. "Get on home now* lass*" he ordered. "Laird MacBain will be wondering where you are."

Johanna stood up* then put her hand down to assist Auggie. "Thank you for a lovely afternoon* Auggie."

The old man smiled. "You've taken on my burr* lass. That pleases me. You're a clever one* aren't you now? You must have a spot of Highland blood running in your veins."

She knew he was teasing her. She bowed and turned to leave. "Would you be wanting to go to the ridge tomorrow* Auggie?" she called over her shoulder.

"I might*" he called back.

"Will you take me with you if you do?"

Johanna couldn't quit smiling. The day had turned out to be quite wonderful. Granted* she'd started out by pricking her husband's temper* but that little incident hadn't been horrible* and the rest of the afternoon had been lovely. She'd learned something important about her husband* too. He could control his temper. Anger didn't control him.

That was a revelation. Johanna pondered the significance on her way back up the hill. Calum was waiting for her. He bowed his head in greeting* then walked by her side back to the keep.

"I noticed you were playing Auggie's game*" the soldier remarked.

"It was most amusing*" Johanna replied. "Do you know* Calum* I believe Auggie's one of the most interesting men I've ever known* save for my father* of course."

Calum smiled over her enthusiasm. "Auggie reminds me of my father* too. He tells the same kind of spicy tales about times past* and he laces his truths with legends like my father always did." Thinking to compliment her* Calum added* "Auggie would be pleased to be compared to your father."

She laughed. "He'd be insulted*" she guessed. "My father was English* Calum. Auggie wouldn't get past that fact." She changed the subject then. "You have more important duties* I'm certain* than keeping your eye on me. Will my husband expect you to follow me around every day?"

"There is no duty more important than protecting my mistress* m'lady*" the soldier answered. "Tomorrow* however* Keith will be assigned the duty of watching out for you."

"Keith is the first-in-command over the Maclaurin soldiers* isn't he?"

"That is so. He answers only to our laird."

"And you are first-in-command over the MacBain soldiers."

"Yes."

"Why?"

"Why what* m'lady?"

"Why isn't there just one commander over both the MacBain and the Maclaurin soldiers?"

"Perhaps you might ask your husband that question*" Calum suggested. "He has sound reasons for allowing the Maclaurins their own leader."

"Yes* I will ask him*" she said. "I'm interested in learning all I can about the land and the people here. Where is my husband?"

"Hunting*" Calum answered. "He should be back any time now. Do you realize* m'lady* we've been speaking Gaelic? Your grasp of our language is quite impressive given the fact you've only had a few short weeks of instruction before you came here."

She shook her head. "Nay* Calum* it was closer to four months of intense study under Father MacKechnie's supervision. I was a little nervous when I first met your laird* though I doubt you noticed for I'm very good at hiding my reactions. When he asked me how long I'd been studying Gaelic* I was a bit nervous and the answer flew out of my mind. I can tell from your occasional grimace I still haven't mastered the burr."

Odd* but as soon as Calum made the mention that she was speaking Gaelic* she started tripping over her words and mispronouncing something fierce.

They'd just crossed the courtyard when Calum spotted his laird.

"Here's your husband now* m'lady."

Johanna turned to greet Gabriel. She hurried to straighten her appearance. She brushed a strand of hair back over her shoulder* pinched her cheeks for color* and adjusted the folds in her plaid. She noticed the condition of her hands then. They were caked with dirt from spending the afternoon digging with Auggie. Since there wasn't time to wash now* she hid them behind her back.

The ground fairly trembled as the band of warriors rode their mounts up the last slope. Gabriel led the soldiers. He was riding one of the horses she'd given him as a wedding gift. The mare he'd chosen was the most temperamental of the lot. She was also the prettiest in Johanna's estimation. Her coat was as white as fresh snow with nary a mark on her. She was much bigger than the other horses* thicker in muscle as well* and certainly carried Gabriel's weight easily.

"He's riding my favorite horse*" Johanna told Calum.

"She's a beauty."

"She knows it* too*" Johanna said. "Rachel's terribly vain. She likes to prance. It's her way of showing off."

"She's showing off because she's proud to carry our important laird*" Calum announced.

She thought he was jesting with her. She burst into laughter* then noticed Calum wasn't even chuckling. She realized he was serious.

Calum didn't know what she'd found amusing. He turned to ask her* saw the smudges of dirt she'd brushed on her cheeks* and smiled in reaction.

Gabriel's hound came running toward his master from around the corner of the keep. The huge beast frightened the mare. Rachel tried to rear up and bolt at the same time.

Gabriel forced her under control and dismounted. One of the soldiers led the horse away.

The hound rushed forward. With one leap* he planted his front paws on Gabriel's shoulders. The dog was almost as tall as his master now and just as ferocious looking. Johanna's knees went weak watching the two of them. Thankfully the dog held great affection for his master. He was diligently trying to lick Gabriel's face. Her husband turned away before his pet could bathe him. He gave him a sound slap of affection. Dust flew from the hound's thick gray coat. Gabriel finally pushed the dog down and turned to his wife.

He motioned her forward. She wondered if he expected her to plant her hands on his shoulders and kiss him in greeting. The thought amused her. She took a step forward* then came to a quick stop when the animal started growling at her.

Gabriel was going to have to come to her. She kept the hound in her sights* wary now* as her husband walked forward. The dog* she noticed* attached himself to Gabriel's side and came with him.

Gabriel was amused by her timidity. The dog obviously intimidated her. He couldn't imagine why. He heard the low growling. So did his wife. She backed up a step. Gabriel ordered his hound to quit his show of bluster.

Some of the Maclaurin soldiers were still seated atop their mounts* watching their laird and his wife. A few grinned when they saw her fear of the dog. Others shook their heads.

"Did your hunt go well* m'lord?" Johanna asked.

"It did."

"Was there enough grain to be taken?" Calum asked.

"More than enough*" Gabriel answered.

"You went hunting for grain?" Johanna asked* trying to understand.

"And a few other necessary items* ' her husband explained. "There's dirt on your face* wife. What have you been doing?"

She tried to wipe the dirt away. Gabriel grabbed hold of her hands and looked at them.

"I was helping Auggie dig holes."

"I do not want my wife to dirty her hands."

He sounded as though he was giving her an important commandment. Her husband appeared to be more than just a little irritated with her.

"But I have just explained…"

"My wife does not do common tasks."

She was exasperated. "Have you more than one* m'lord?"

"More than one what?"

"Wife."

"Of course not."

"Then it would appear that your wife does indeed get her hands dirty*" she said. "I'm sorry if that displeases you* though I really can't imagine why it does. I can tell you I'm certain to get them dirty again."

She'd tried to use logic to soothe him* but he wasn't in the mood to be reasonable. He shook his head and scowled at her. "You will not*" he commanded. "You're mistress here* Johanna. You will not lower yourself to such tasks."

She didn't know if she should laugh or frown. She settled on a sigh instead. The man had the oddest notions.

He seemed to want some sort of answer. She decided to try to placate him. "As you wish* m'lord*" she whispered* determined not to let her sudden irritation show.

She was trying to be submissive* Gabriel decided. He thought it was probably killing her. She had a murderous look in her eyes* but she held onto her serene smile* and her voice sounded humble.

Johanna turned to Calum. She ignored the grin on his face. "Where do the women wash?"

"There's a well behind the keep* m'lady* but most bathe in Rush Creek."

Calum was going to escort her. Gabriel took over the task. He grabbed hold of her hand and pulled her along.

"In future* water will be carried to you*" he said.

"In future* I would appreciate it if you didn't treat me like a child."

He couldn't believe the anger he heard in her voice. Johanna wasn't quite so timid after all.

"I would also appreciate it if you didn't berate me in front of your soldiers."

He nodded. His quick agreement eased her irritation. Her husband had a long-legged stride. They rounded the corner and started down the slope. Huts lined the hill* and more were clustered in a wide circle at the base. The well was in the center. Several of the Maclaurin women were standing in line with their buckets* waiting their turn to fetch fresh water. Several called out greetings to their laird. He nodded and continued on.

The wall was just beyond the line of huts. Johanna wanted to stop to look at it. Gabriel wouldn't let her. They passed through the opening of the mammoth structure and continued on.

Johanna had to run to keep up with her husband. By the time they reached the second slope* she was out of breath. "Do slow down* Gabriel. My legs aren't as long as yours." He immediately slowed his pace. He didn't let go of her hand* however. She didn't try to pull away. She heard the women's laughter in the background and wondered what they found amusing.

Rush Creek was a wide* deep stream. It ran the length of the mountain* her husband explained* from the top to a pool at the bottom where their land bordered with the Gillevrey territory. Trees lined the sides of the waterway* and wildflowers were so abundant they seemed to be growing out of the water as well as along the banks. The area was breathtakingly beautiful.

Johanna knelt on the bank* leaned forward* and washed her hands. The water was clear enough for her to see the bottom. Gabriel knelt beside her* cupped a handful of the frigid water* and poured it over the back of his neck. Her husband's pet appeared out of the woods* moved to her side* growled once* and then began to drink from the creek. Johanna wet her linen cloth and washed her face. Gabriel leaned back to watch her. Her every movement was graceful. She was a mystery to him* and he assumed his curiosity and his fascination were both due to the fact that he'd never spent any significant amount of time with any woman. Johanna wasn't paying any attention to her husband. She spotted what appeared to be a perfectly round stone at the bottom of the stream* decided Auggie could use it for his game* and reached down to get it.

The creek was much deeper than she'd judged it to be. She would have gone in headfirst if her husband hadn't grabbed hold of her and hauled her back.

"It's usual to take your clothes off before you bathe*" he said dryly.

She laughed. "I lost my balance. I was trying to get a stone that caught my eye. Will you fetch it for me?"

He leaned forward to look. "There are at least a hundred stones* wife. Which do you fancy?" She pointed. "The perfectly round one*" she replied. Gabriel reached down* lifted the stone* and handed it to her. She smiled in appreciation. "Auggie will like this one*" she announced.

Johanna moved further back on the grassy slope* tucked her feet under her plaid and dropped the stone into her lap. A light breeze brushed through the trees. The scent of pine and early heather filled the air. The area was secluded and peaceful.

"Scotland is very beautiful*" she said. He shook his head. "Not Scotland*" he corrected. "The Highlands are beautiful."

Gabriel didn't seem inclined to hurry back to his duties. He leaned his back against the trunk of a pine tree* crossed one ankle over the other* and adjusted the sword at his side so it wouldn't be scratched. His dog moved to his other side and stretched out next to him.

Johanna stared at her husband for several minutes before speaking again. The man had the ability to mesmerize her. She thought the reaction was due to the fact that there was so much of him. He was certainly as tall as Nicholas but far more muscular. At least she thought he was. "Tell me what you're thinking." Her husband's command jarred her. "I've never seen Nicholas without a tunic on. That's what I was thinking. I believe you're more muscular than my brother* but since I haven't seen him… They were foolish thoughts* husband."

"Aye* they are foolish thoughts." She didn't take exception to his agreement. His slow grin told her he was teasing. Gabriel looked very content with his eyes closed and the soft smile on his face. He really was a dashing man.

Johanna noticed his pet nudge Gabriel's hand and was immediately rewarded with a quick pat.

Her husband wasn't such a worry to her any longer. Not only could he control his temper* but he also had a gentle streak in his nature. The way his hound responded to him told her that much about his character.

Gabriel caught her staring at him. She blushed with embarrassment and turned her gaze to her lap. She didn't want to leave just yet. She was enjoying this peaceful interlude with her husband. She decided to draw him into further conversation before he could suggest they go back.

"Aren't Scotland and the Highlands the same* m'lord?"

"They are and they aren't*" he answered. "We don't consider ourselves Scots as you English are so inclined to call us. We're either Highlanders or Lowlanders."

"From the tone of your voice when you said Lowlanders* I assume you don't particularly like those people."

"Nay* I don't like them."

"Why?"

"They've forgotten who they are*" he explained.

"They've become English."

"I'm English." She blurted out the reminder before she could stop herself.

She sounded worried. He smiled. "I'm aware of that fact."

"Yes* of course you are*" she agreed. "Perhaps* in time* you'll forget."

"'Tis highly doubtful."

She didn't know if he was jesting with her or not. She decided to turn the topic to a less sensitive one.

"Auggie isn't daft."

"No* he isn't. The Maclaurins believe that nonsense* not the MacBains."

"He's actually very clever* husband. The game he made up is most amusing. You must try it sometime. It requires skill."

He nodded agreement just to placate her. He found her defense of the old man admirable. "Auggie didn't invent the game. It's been around for long years. In the old days* stones were used* but the men also carved balls out of wooden blocks. Some even fashioned leather balls and filled them with wet feathers."

Johanna stored the information away for future use. Perhaps she could make a few of the leather balls for Auggie.

"He says I've caught the fever."

"God help us*" Gabriel drawled out. "Auggie plays the game all day* every day* rain or shine."

"Why were you irritated over a little speck of dirt on my face and hands?"

"I've already explained my position. You're my wife now. You must behave accordingly. There's rivalry between the MacBains and the Maclaurins; and until the clans become accustomed to living together in peace* I must show only strength* not vulnerability."

"Do I make you vulnerable?"

"Aye* you do."

"Why? I want to understand*" she told him. "Was it the dirt or was it the fact that I was spending the afternoon with Auggie?"

"I don't want you down on your knees* Johanna. You must act with proper decorum at all times. My wife will not do common work."

"You've already mentioned that opinion."

"It isn't an opinion*" he countered. "It's a command."

She tried not to let him see how disgruntled she was becoming. " 'Tis the truth I'm surprised you concern yourself with appearances. You don't seem the sort to care what other people think."

"I don't give a damn about other people's opinions*" he countered* irritated by her conclusion. "I do care about keeping you safe."

"What does my safety have to do with my behavior?"

Gabriel didn't answer her.

[Dalyia]

"You should have married a Maclaurin. That would have solved your problem uniting the clans* wouldn't it?"

"I should have*" he agreed. "But I didn't. I married you. We'll both have to make the best of it* Johanna."

He sounded resigned. He was still in an agreeable mood and she decided to change the topic again with a question that surely wouldn't prick his temper.

"Why doesn't your wolfhound like me?"

"He knows you're afraid of him."

She didn't argue over that truth. "What is he called?"

"Dumfries."

The dog's ears picked up when his master spoke his name. Johanna smiled in reaction. "It's a peculiar name*" she remarked. "How did you come by it?"

"I found the dog near the Dumfries' holding. He was caught in mire. I pulled him out*" he added. "He's been with me ever since."

Johanna moved closer to Gabriel's side. She slowly reached over to pat the animal. The dog watched her out of the corner of his eye; when she was about to touch him* he let out a menacing unearthly sound. She quickly pulled her hand back. Gabriel took hold of her arm and forced her to touch the hound. The dog kept up the horrid noise but didn't try to bite her hand off.

"Did I hurt you last night?"

The switch in topics made her blink. She bowed her head so he wouldn't see her quick blush* then whispered* "You didn't hurt me. You asked me after we…"

Gabriel nudged her chin up with his hand. The look in her eyes made him smile. He found her embarrassment amusing.

The look in his eyes made her heartbeat race. She thought he might want to kiss her. She found herself hoping he would.

"Will you want to make love to me again* m'lord?"

"Will you want me to?" he asked.

She stared into his eyes a long minute before giving him her answer. She wasn't going to try to be coy or clever. She'd only make a muck of it* she decided* because she'd never learned the fine art of flirting like the other young ladies had while they lived the high* courtly life in London. "Yes*" she whispered* grimacing inside over the shiver in her voice. "I would like you to make love to me again. It wasn't half bad* m'lord."

Gabriel laughed over her jest. Her blush* he noticed* was now as red as fire. Her embarrassment hadn't stopped her from telling him the truth* however. He pulled away from the tree trunk and bent down to kiss her. His mouth brushed over hers in a tender caress. She sighed into his mouth and put her hands on his shoulders.

It was all the encouragement he needed. Before he realized his intent* he lifted her onto his lap* wrapped his arms around her waist* and kissed her again. His mouth covered hers and his tongue swept inside to taste* stroke* and drive her wild. She went weak in his arms. She clung to him and kissed him just as thoroughly. Johanna was a little stunned by how quickly her entire body responded to her husband. Her heartbeat became frantic; her arms and legs began to tingle* and she kept forgetting to breathe.

Gabriel was shaken by his own reaction to his wife. She wasn't able to hold a part of herself back. She trusted him to keep her safe* he believed* or she wouldn't have allowed herself to be so uninhibited. Her passionate response ignited his own* and God help him* he couldn't seem to gather enough control to hold back either.

Hell* he'd take her here and now if he didn't put a stop to the sweet torment. He abruptly pulled back. He shouldn't have looked into her eyes. They were cloudy with passion. Damn* he had to kiss her again.

They were both shaken when he finally called a halt to the lovemaking. His breathing was labored. So was hers.

"You make me forget myself* m'lord."

He took that as a compliment. He lifted her off his lap* then stood up. Johanna was still rattled. Her face was flushed* and her hands trembled when she smoothed the hair back into her braid. He watched her try to right her appearance with vast amusement.

Women flustered easily* he decided. This one quicker than most.

"My hair's a sight*" she stammered out when she caught his smile. "I've a mind to cut it… with your permission* of course."

"What you do with your hair is no concern to me. You don't need my permission. I have more important matters to think about."

He softened his rebuke with a quick kiss. Then he bent down* picked up the stone she wanted to give to Auggie* and handed it to her. He had to put the pebble in her hand. Aye* she was flustered all right* and damn* that fact pleased him. He winked at his wife and turned to walk back up the hill.

Johanna straightened the pleats of her plaid and then hurried to catch up with him.

She couldn't quit smiling. He knew his kisses had made mush out of her mind* she decided* because the look on his face was one of pure male satisfaction. She didn't mind his arrogance though.

Everything was going to be all right. Johanna did a lot of sighing on the way back up the hill. Yes* she thought to herself* she had made the right decision when she'd agreed to marry Gabriel.

Johanna was in such high spirits she barely minded Dumfries's bluster of growls each time she moved closer to Gabriel's side. Even the mighty beast wasn't going to ruin her good mood.

She brushed her hand against her husband's. He didn't take the hint. She nudged him again* and still he didn't catch on. She gave up trying to be subtle and took hold of his hand.

He acted as though she wasn't even there. His gaze was directed on the top of the hill* and she assumed his mind was already turned to thoughts of duties ahead. She didn't mind his inattention; and when they reached the cluster of workmen's huts* she pulled her hand away. She didn't think he would want to show affection in front of the clan. Gabriel surprised her by grabbing hold of her hand again. He gave her fingers a gentle squeeze* then increased his stride until she was once again running to keep up.

Lord* she was happy. Aye* she'd done the right thing. She'd married a good-hearted man.

[Dalyia]

Chapter 7

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'Twas the truth she was married to a gargoyle.

Johanna came to this depressing conclusion after living with her husband for three long months. Gabriel was downright mean-hearted. He was outrageously stubborn* horribly set in his ways* and completely unreasonable with his orders. Those were his better qualities. He treated her like an invalid. She wasn't allowed to lift a finger* was waited on hand and foot* and was always followed around by one of his men. She put up with the nonsense for a good two months before her irritation got the better of her. She did protest then* but to no avail. Gabriel wouldn't listen. His ideas about marriage were most bizarre. He wanted her protected under lock and key* and God's truth* whenever she went outside for a breath of fresh air* he tried to chase her back inside.

Dinners were insufferable. She was expected to maintain her dignity throughout the meal* while chaos ruled around her. None of the men she dined with had any manners. They were loud* rude* and made horrid* disgusting noises.

And those were their better qualities. Johanna didn't criticize the soldiers. She felt it would be better if she continued to maintain her separation from the clan whenever possible. In her mind* uninvolvement meant peace* and that was the one goal she longed to gain.

Since Gabriel still wouldn't let her go hunting* she spent most of the daylight hours alone. Her husband believed she was too fragile for the strenuous exercise of lifting a bow and arrow* she supposed* and how in God's name did one debate that ludicrous opinion? To keep her skill from becoming rusty* she fashioned a target on a tree trunk at the base of the hill and practiced there with her bow and arrows. She really was quite good with the weapon and was proud to boast she'd actually bested Nicholas a time or two in target games.

No one bothered her while she was at her task. The women ignored her most of the time. The Maclaurins were openly hostile. Several young women followed the example set by their unspoken leader* a tall* robust woman with ruddy cheeks and white-blond hair named Glynis. She did a lot of unladylike snorting whenever Johanna walked past. Johanna didn't believe Glynis was an evil woman* though. She just didn't have any use for her mistress. If her guess was true* Johanna decided she couldn't fault the woman. While Glynis was working from early morning until nightfall in the fields beyond the line of trees with the other women* tending the fertile fields and nurturing their crops* Johanna was leisurely strolling around the holding* giving the appearance* she was sure* of a lazy queen of the manor.

No* Johanna didn't blame the women for resenting her. Gabriel was in part responsible for their opinion of her because he wouldn't allow her to interact with any of them* but Johanna was honest enough with herself to acknowledge she'd allowed the separation and hadn't done anything to change the women's opinions of her. She hadn't tried to be friendly with any of them* following old habits without taking the time to question her own motives.

She hadn't had any close friends in England because her husband wouldn't have allowed it. Everything was different in the Highlands* she reminded herself. The clan wasn't going to vanish or move away.

After three months of solitude* she had to admit that* though her life was peaceful* it was also lonely and boring. She wanted to fit in. Just as important* she wanted to help rebuild what her first husband had destroyed. Gabriel was too busy with the reorganization to worry about her problems. She wasn't about to complain to her husband anyway. The problem was hers to solve.

Once Johanna named the dilemma* she set about solving it. She no longer wanted to separate herself from the clan and tried to join in whenever possible. She was shy by nature* almost painfully so* but she still forced herself to call a greeting whenever she spotted one of the women hurrying by. The MacBains always responded with a smile or a kind word; most of the Maclaurins pretended they hadn't heard her. There were some exceptions* of course. Leila and Megan* the two Maclaurin women who'd assisted with her bath on her wedding night* seemed to like her* but the others refused her every offer of friendship.

She was confused by their attitude. She didn't know what she could do to change their minds about her. On Tuesday* when Keith was assigned the duty of looking out for her* she put the question to him.

"I would like your opinion* Keith* on a matter worrying me. I can't seem to find a way to gain acceptance from the Maclaurin women. Do you have a suggestion to offer?"

Keith scratched his jaw while he listened to her. He could tell she was upset by his clan's behavior toward her* yet hesitated to explain the reason because he knew he would hurt her feelings. After several days spent protecting her* his own attitude had softened. She was still somewhat timid* but she certainly wasn't a coward as some of the Maclaurin women believed.

Johanna noticed his hesitation. She thought he didn't want to talk about the problem because they were within hearing distance of some of his clansmen.

"Will you walk with me up the hill?"

"Certainly* m'lady."

Neither one said another word until they were well away from the courtyard. Keith finally broke the silence. "The Highlanders have long memories* Lady Johanna. If a warrior goes to his death without avenging some slight* he still dies in peace because he knows that someday his son or grandson will right the wrong. The feuds are never forgotten* the sins never forgiven."

She didn't have the faintest idea what he was talking about. He looked terribly earnest though. "And not forgetting is important* Keith?"

"Aye* m'lady."

He acted as though he'd finished his explanation. She shook her head in frustration. "I still don't understand what it is you're trying to tell me. Please try again."

"Very well*" the soldier responded. "The Maclaurins haven't forgotten what your first husband's men did here."

"And they blame me* is that it?"

"Some of them do blame you*" he admitted. "You needn't worry about retaliation*" he hastily added. "Revenge is a man's game. The Highlanders leave the women and children alone. There is also the fact that your husband would kill anyone who dared to touch you."

"I'm not concerned about my safety*" she replied. "I can take care of myself. I can't fight memories though. I can't change what happened here. You needn't look so bleak* Keith. I believe I've won a few of the women over. I heard one of them call me courageous. She wouldn't have given me that high praise if she disliked me."

"The praise isn't praise at all*" Keith announced* anger lacing his brogue. "I cannot allow you to believe it is."

"Now what are you trying to tell me?" she asked in frustration.

Getting a straight answer out of the Maclaurin soldier was proving to be a difficult task. Johanna held onto her patience while she waited for him to sort out in his mind whatever was worrying him.

Keith let out a loud sigh. "They call Auggie clever."

She nodded. "Auggie is very clever*" she agreed.

He shook his head. "They believe he's daft."

"Then why in heaven's name do they call him clever?"

"Because he isn't."

The expression on her face told him she still hadn't caught on. "They call your husband merciful."

"Their laird would be pleased to hear such praise."

"Nay* m'lady* he would not be pleased."

And still she didn't understand. Keith believed it would be a cruel disservice to let her remain ignorant. "Your husband would be furious if he thought the Maclaurins truly believed he was a merciful man. The women* you see* gave the name that least fits. It's a foolish game they play. They actually believe their laird is ruthless. 'Tis the reason they admire him*" he added with a nod. "A leader doesn't wish to be known as merciful or kind-hearted. He would see it as a weakness."

She slowly straightened her spine. She was starting to grasp the meaning behind the women's game.

"And so* if what you say is true* then they consider Auggie to be…"

"Dull-witted."

She finally understood. Keith saw the tears gather in her eyes before she turned away from him. "Then I'm not courageous in their minds. I'm a coward. Now I understand. Thank you for taking the time to explain* Keith. I know it was difficult for you."

"M'lady* please give me the name of the woman you heard call you…"

"I will not*" she said as she shook her head. She couldn't look at the soldier. She felt embarrassed… and ashamed. "Will you excuse me please? I believe I'll go back inside now."

She didn't wait to gain his permission but turned and hurried down the hill. She suddenly stopped and turned back to the soldier. "I would appreciate it if you wouldn't mention this conversation to my husband. He doesn't need to be concerned about such unimportant matters as foolish games some women play."

"I will not mention it*" Keith agreed. He was a little relieved she didn't want him to repeat the conversation to his laird* for he knew there would be hell to pay if the MacBain found out about the insult. The fact that the cruel behavior came from the Maclaurin women infuriated the soldier. As their leader* he felt the heavy burden of conflicting duties. He had pledged his loyalty to the MacBain* of course* and would give his life to keep his laird safe. That pledge spilled over to his wife. He would do whatever was demanded of him to protect Lady Johanna from harm.

Yet* he was also leader over his own clan members and* as such* felt that the Maclaurin problems should be solved by Maclaurins* not the MacBains. Telling his laird about the women's cruelty toward Lady Johanna made him feel traitorous. Keith knew it was Glynis and her cohorts causing all the mischief. He decided to take the time to have a firm talk with the women. He would order them to show their mistress the respect her position dictated.

Johanna went up to her bedroom and stayed there the rest of the afternoon. She alternated between anger and self-pity. She was certainly suffering from hurt feelings because of the women's cruelty* but that wasn't the true reason she wept. Nay* what really bothered Johanna was the possibility they were right. Was she really a coward?

She didn't have any answers. She wanted to hide in her chamber* but she forced herself to go down to dinner. Gabriel would be home from his hunt* and Keith would be there as well* and she didn't want either one of them to guess she was having any difficulties.

The hall was crowded with soldiers. Most were already seated at the two long tables adjacent to each other on the right side of the room. The scent of new wood and fresh pine-scented rushes on the floor mingled with the hearty aromas of the food being carried into the hall on giant trenchers made from two-day-old black bread.

No one stood when she entered the hall. That oversight bothered her. She didn't believe the men were being deliberately rude* however. Several waved when they spotted her. The soldiers simply didn't realize they were supposed to stand when a lady walked into the room.

She wondered what would make these two groups of proud* good men really feel like one clan. They worked so hard to keep separate. When one of the Maclaurin soldiers told a jest* only the other Maclaurin soldiers laughed. None of the MacBains even smiled.

They sat at separate tables* too. Gabriel was seated at the head of one table* and every other stool* except for the one on his right reserved for her* was taken up with a MacBain soldier. The Maclaurins all sat together at the other table.

Tonight* Gabriel barely acknowledged her. He held a parchment scroll in his hands and was frowning while he read the message it contained.

Johanna didn't interrupt her husband. His men weren't as thoughtful.

"What does the Gillevrey want?" Calum asked his laird.

"M'lady* he's laird of the clan south of us*" Keith explained in a shout from the other table. "The message came from him*" he added. He turned his attention to his laird then. "What does the old man want?"

Gabriel finished reading the message and then rolled the scroll back. "The message is for Johanna."

Her eyes widened in surprise. "For me?" she asked as she reached for the scroll.

"You can read?" Gabriel asked.

"I can*" she answered. "I insisted upon learning."

"Why?" her husband asked.

She shrugged. "Because it was forbidden*" she whispered. She didn't tell him that Raulf had taunted her over and over again* saying she was too ignorant to learn anything of value and that she had felt compelled to prove him wrong. It had been a silent defiance on her part* for Raulf never knew she had conquered the difficult task of reading and writing. Her teacher had been too frightened of Raulf to tell him.

Gabriel wouldn't let Johanna have the scroll. His frown was fierce when he asked* "Do you know a baron by the name of Randolph Goode?"

Her hand froze in midair. In the space of a heartbeat* the color left her face. She felt faint and took a quick breath to try to calm herself.

"Johanna?" he prodded when she didn't immediately answer him.

"I know him."

"The message comes from Goode*" Gabriel said. "Gillevrey won't let him cross his border unless I give permission for him to come here. Who is this man and what does he want?"

Johanna could barely hide her agitation. She wanted more than anything to get up and run but refused to give in to the cowardly urge.

"I don't wish to speak to him."

Gabriel leaned back in his chair. He could see her fear and feel her panic. Her reaction to the news didn't sit well with him. Didn't she realize she was safe? Damn it all* he wasn't about to let anything happen to her.

He let out a sigh. She obviously didn't know* he realized. In time she would learn that he and his men would protect her from harm. She'd learn to trust him* too* and then messages from England wouldn't make her fearful at all.

Gabriel knew he was being arrogant. He didn't care. Right now he wanted most of all to soothe his wife. He didn't like seeing her frightened. He had one other motive as well. He wanted to get to the truth.

"Has this baron offended you in some way?"

"No."

"Who is he* Johanna?"

"I won't speak to him*" she said again. Her voice shook with emotion.

"I want to know…"

He stopped his question when she shook her head at him. He reached over and captured her chin with his hand to force her to stop denying him.

"Listen to me*" he commanded. "You don't have to see him or speak to him."

He gave her his promise in a low* fervent voice.

She looked wary now* and uncertain. "Do you mean it? You won't let him come here?"

"I mean it."

She visibly relaxed. "Thank you."

Gabriel let go of her and leaned back in his chair again. "Now answer my question*" he ordered again. "Who in thunder is Baron Goode?"

Every soldier in the hall was silent now* watching and listening. It was obvious to all of them their mistress was frightened. They were curious to find out why.

"Baron Goode is a powerful man in England*" she whispered. "Some say he's as powerful as King John."

Gabriel waited for her to continue. Long minutes passed before he realized she wasn't going to tell him more.

[Dalyia]

"Is he a favored baron with the king?" he asked.

"No*" Johanna answered. "He hates John. There are many other barons who share Goode's opinion of their overlord. They've joined together* and some say Goode is their leader."

"You speak of insurrection* Johanna."

She shook her head and turned her gaze to her lap. "It's a quiet rebellion* m'lord. England is in turmoil now* and there are many barons who believe Arthur should have been named king. He was John's nephew. His father* Geoffrey* was John's older brother. He died a few months before the birth of his son."

Calum had tried to follow the explanation. He frowned in confusion now. "M'lady* do you mean to tell us that when King Richard died* Geoffrey should have become king?"

"Geoffrey was older than John*" she replied. "He was next in line* for Richard didn't have sons* you see. But Geoffrey had already died. Some believe his son should have been the rightful heir. They even rallied behind Arthur and his cause."

"So the barons fight over the question of the crown?"

Gabriel made the statement. Johanna nodded. "The barons prod their king whenever they're given the opportunity. John's made many enemies over the last several years. Nicholas believes one day there will be a full rebellion. Goode and the others are looking for a sound reason to rid the land of John now. They don't want to wait. John has proven to be a terrible king*" she added in a whisper. "He has no conscience* not even toward the members of his own family. Do you know he turned against his own father and joined with France's king during the trouble? Henry died of a broken heart* for he had always believed that of all his children* John was most loyal to him."

"How did you learn all this?" Calum asked.

"From my brother* Nicholas."

"You still haven't explained why Goode would want to speak to you*" Gabriel reminded her.

"Perhaps he thinks I could aid his cause to unseat John. Even if I could* I wouldn't. It would serve no purpose now. I will not involve my family in the struggle. Nicholas and my mother would both be made to suffer if I were to tell…"

"Tell what?" her husband asked.

She wouldn't answer him.

Calum nudged her with his elbow to gain her attention. "Does Arthur want the crown?" he asked.

"He did*" she answered. "But I'm only a woman* Calum. I don't concern myself with England's political games. I can't imagine why Baron Goode would want to talk to me. I don't know anything that would aid his cause to unseat John."

She was lying. Gabriel didn't have any doubt about that fact. She was obviously terrified* too.

"Goode wants to ask you some questions*" he remarked.

"About what?" Calum asked when his mistress remained silent.

Gabriel kept his gaze on his wife when he gave his answer. "Arthur*" he said. "He's now convinced the king's nephew was indeed murdered."

Johanna started to stand up. Gabriel caught hold of her hand and forced her to stay where she was. He could feel her trembling.

"I will not talk to Goode*" she cried out. "Arthur disappeared over four years ago. I don't understand the baron's renewed interest in the whereabouts of the king's nephew. I have nothing to say to him."

She had already told him more than she intended. When she'd spoken of Arthur* she used revealing words* such as was and wanted.

Johanna already knew the king's nephew was dead. Gabriel thought she might also know how Arthur had died and who had done the foul deed. He considered all the ramifications if his guess proved true* then shook his head. "England is a world away from us*" he announced. "I will not allow any barons to come here. I never break my word* Johanna. You will not speak to any of them."

She nodded. Calum started to ask another question* but his laird's glare stopped him.

"We are finished discussing this matter*" he commanded. "Give me your report on the progress of the wall* Calum."

Johanna was too upset to listen to the conversation. Her stomach was queasy* and she could barely swallow a bite of cheese. There was boar for the offering and leftover salted salmon* but she knew she'd gag if she tried to eat anything more.

She stared at the food* wondering how long she would have to sit there before she could be excused from the table.

"You should eat something*" Gabriel told her.

"I'm not hungry*" she replied. "I'm not used to eating such large meals close to bedtime* m'lord*" she explained as her excuse. "In England* dinner was usually served between ten and noon* and a lighter fare was offered later in the day. It's going to take time to get accustomed to the change. Will you excuse me now? I would like to go upstairs."

Gabriel nodded permission. Since Calum was staring at her* she bid him good night* then got up and walked toward the entrance. She spotted Dumfries lounging on the left of the steps and immediately altered her path to make a wide half circle around the beast. She kept her gaze on the hound until she had gotten past him* then hurried on.

She took her time getting ready for bed. Going through such simple* uncomplicated rituals made her feel calmer and more in control of her fear. She forced herself to concentrate on each little task. She added two logs to the fire in the hearth* washed* and then sat down to brush her hair. She hated the chore. It seemed to take forever to get all the tangles out. Her scalp ached from the weight of the heavy mass* and by the time she was finished* she was too tired to braid it.

Johanna had run out of chores* and so she tried to think about other mundane things* for she believed that if she could block her fear* it would eventually go away.

"Gabriel's right*" she whispered. "England is a world away from here."

I'm safe* she thought to herself* and Nicholas and Mama will continue to be safe in England as long as I remain silent.

Johanna put her brush down and made the sign of the cross. She prayed for courage first and divine guidance next* and last of all she said a prayer for the man who should have been king. She prayed for Arthur.

Gabriel came into the room just as she was finishing her petitions. He found his wife sitting on the side of the bed staring at the flames in the fireplace. He bolted the door* pulled off his boots* and then walked over to the opposite side of the bed. She stood up and turned around to face him.

She looked so damned sad to him.

"Nicholas told me King John is afraid of you."

She turned her gaze to the floor. "Where did he get that notion?"

"Johanna?"

She looked up at him. "Yes?"

"Eventually you will tell me what you know. I won't demand. I'll wait. When you're ready to confide in me* you will."

"Tell you what* m'lord?"

He let out a sigh. "You'll tell me what's scaring the hell out of you."

She thought about protesting* then changed her mind. She didn't want to lie to Gabriel.

"We are married now*" she said. "And it isn't just your duty to protect me* Gabriel. It is also my duty to keep you safe whenever I can."

He didn't know what she meant by the outrageous remark. Keep him safe? Hell* she had it all backward in her mind. He was supposed to protect her and watch his own back. He would make certain he stayed alive long years so he could take care of her and Alex.

"Wives do not protect their husbands*" he decided aloud.

"This wife does*" she countered.

He was about to argue with her* but she turned his attention. She didn't say a word. She simply untied the belt to her robe and took the garment off. She wasn't wearing anything underneath.

His breath caught in the back of his throat. Dear God* she was beautiful. The firelight behind her cast a golden glow to her skin. There wasn't a single flaw to mar her appeal. Her breasts were full* her waist was narrow* and her legs were long.

Gabriel didn't remember taking his clothes off. He held her stare for long* silent minutes* until his heart was slamming inside his chest and his breathing was harsh with his arousal.

Johanna fought her embarrassment. She knew she was blushing because she could feel the heat in her face.

They both reached for the covers at the same time. Then they reached for each other. Johanna was still on her knees when Gabriel pulled her into his arms. He rolled her onto her back* covered her with his body* and kissed her.

She wrapped her arms around his neck and held him close. She was desperate for his touch. She wanted him tonight. She needed his comfort and his acceptance.

He needed satisfaction. His hands roughly caressed her shoulders* her back* her thighs. The feel of her silky skin inflamed him.

Johanna didn't need to be coaxed into responding. She couldn't stop stroking him. His body was so hard* his skin so wonderfully hot* and the way he made love to her with his mouth and hands aroused her to a fevered state in bare minutes.

It wasn't possible to be inhibited with Gabriel. He was a demanding lover* rough and gentle at the same time. He stroked the fires inside her with his intimate caresses* and when his fingers penetrated her and his thumb rubbed against the most sensitive nub hidden beneath her sleak folds* she became wild.

He took her hand and put it on his hard arousal. She squeezed him; he growled low in his throat. He whispered erotic praise and instructions of how he wanted her to caress him.

Gabriel couldn't stand the sweet agony for very long. He roughly pulled her hands away from him* lifted her thighs* and thrust deep inside her. She cried out with pleasure. Her nails raked his shoulders* and she arched up against him to take more of him inside. He almost spilled his seed then and there. It took every ounce of discipline he possessed to hold back. His hand moved down between their joined bodies* and he stroked her with his fingers until she found her fulfillment. Then he allowed his own.

His orgasm consumed him. He groaned with raw pleasure as he poured his hot seed into her. She kept calling his name* and he called God's.

Gabriel collapsed on top of his wife with a loud* satisfied grunt. He stayed inside her* unwilling to let go of the bliss he'd just experienced.

Johanna didn't want to let go of her husband just yet. She felt cherished when she was being held by him. She felt safe too… and almost loved.

His weight soon became crushing. She finally had to ask him to move so she could draw a proper breath.

He didn't know if he had enough strength. That thought amused him. He rolled to his side* taking her with him* then pulled the covers up and closed his eyes.

"Gabriel?"

He didn't answer her. She poked him in the chest to gain his attention. He grunted in response.

"You were right. I am weak."

She waited to hear his agreement. He said nothing. "A northern wind could probably blow me over*" she said* repeating the words he'd spoken on their first night as man and wife.

He remained silent. "I might even be a little timid."

Several minutes passed before she spoke again. "But the other things* they aren't true. I won't let them be true."

She closed her eyes and said her prayers. Gabriel thought she'd fallen asleep. He was about to do the same. Then her voice* whisper-soft* yet filled with conviction* reached him.

"I'm not a coward."

[Dalyia]

Chapter 8

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"Who dared to call you a coward?"

Johanna was jarred out of a sound sleep by her husband's booming voice. She opened her eyes and looked at him. Gabriel was standing at the side of the bed* glaring down at her. He was fully dressed and looked furious.

He needed to be appeased* she decided with a yawn. She sat up in bed and shook her head at him. "No one called me a coward*" she told him in a sleepy voice.

"Then why did you say…"

"I thought you needed to know*" she explained. "And I needed to say the words."

He lost the edge of his anger. She tossed the covers back and started to get out of bed. Gabriel stopped her by pulling the covers up and ordering her to go back to sleep.

"You will rest today*" he commanded.

"I have rested long enough* m'lord. It's time for me to begin my duties as your wife."

"Rest."

Lord* he was stubborn. The set of his jaw told her it would be pointless to argue with him. She didn't have any intention of lounging in bed all day* but she wasn't going to debate the issue with her husband.

He turned to leave. She stopped him with her question.

"What are your plans for this fine day?"

"I'm going hunting for more supplies."

"Like grain?" she asked. She got out of bed and reached for her robe.

"Like grain*" Gabriel agreed.

Johanna put her robe on and tied the belt at her waist. He watched her lift her hair from underneath the collar. The action was feminine and graceful.

"How does one hunt for crops?"

"We steal them."

She let out a loud gasp. "But that's a sin*" she blurted out.

Gabriel was vastly amused by the look of horror on his wife's face. Stealing seemed to upset her. He couldn't imagine why.

"If Father MacKechnie gets wind of this* he'll have your hide."

"MacKechnie's not back yet. By then all my sins will have been committed."

"You cannot be serious."

"I'm most serious* Johanna."

"Gabriel* you aren't just committing the sin of theft*" she instructed. "You're also committing the sin of contemplation.''

She looked like she expected some sort of answer. He shrugged. She shook her head at him.

"It isn't your place to censure me* wife."

He expected an apology. He got a contradiction instead. "Oh* yes* it is my place to censure you* m'lord* when the topic is your soul. It is my place to instruct you* sir* for I am your wife* and I* therefore* must worry about your soul."

"That's ridiculous*" he countered.

She gasped again. He almost laughed but stopped himself in time. "You think it ridiculous that I worry about you?"

"Do you?"

"Yes* of course."

"Then you are beginning to have affection for me?"

"I didn't say that* m'lord. You turn my words on me. I worry about your soul."

"I do not need your worry or your lectures."

"A wife is allowed to give her opinions* is she not?"

"Yes*" he agreed. "When asked for her opinions* of course."

She ignored his qualification. "It is my opinion that you should barter for what you need."

He couldn't control his exasperation. "We don't have anything of value to trade*" he told her. "Besides* if the other clans can't protect what they own* they deserve to have their supplies taken. It's our way* wife. You'll get used to it."

He was finished discussing the topic. She wasn't. "Such justification…"

"Rest*" Gabriel ordered as he pulled the door closed behind him.

She was married to a stubborn man. Johanna decided not to bring up the topic of stealing again. Gabriel was right. It wasn't her place to instruct him or any of the other clansmen. If they all wanted to spend their eternities in hell* so be it. What did she care?

Johanna spent the morning practicing with her bow and arrows and spent the afternoon playing Auggie's senseless* yet vastly enjoyable* game.

Auggie had become her only real friend. He spoke only Gaelic to her* and she found the more relaxed she was* the less difficult the language became. The older man was patient and understanding with her and answered every question she put to him.

She told him how upsetting she found Gabriel's thievery. Auggie wasn't sympathetic and* in fact* championed his laird's cunning.

They were standing on the ridge* striking long shots while they discussed her worry. Most of the stones shattered from the force of the blow.

"The English destroyed our reserves. Our laird will make certain the clan doesn't go hungry this winter*" he announced. "How can you call that a sin* lass?"

"He's stealing*" she countered.

Auggie shook his head. "God will understand."

"There's more than one way into a castle* Auggie. Gabriel should find another way to feed the clan."

The old man positioned his staff against the round stone* braced his legs apart* and gave a swing. He squinted against the sunlight to see how far he'd hit the stone* nodded with satisfaction* and turned back to his mistress.

"My stone traveled thrice the distance of an arrow. Beat that one* little worrier. See if you can't put your stone right next to mine."

Johanna turned her attention to the game. She surprised a whoop of laughter out of Auggie when she matched his distance. Her stone came to rest just inches away from his.

"You've a knack for the game* lass*" Auggie praised. "We'd best go back now. I've kept you from your duties longer than I had a right."

"I don't have duties*" she blurted out. She tucked her staff under her arm and turned to her friend. "I've tried to take over the running of the household* but no one listens to me. The MacBains are more polite though. They smile while I instruct them* then go about their business without paying any heed to what I've said. The Maclaurin servants are far more rude* embarrassingly so. They completely ignore me."

"What does our laird have to say about this behavior?"

"I haven't told him. I'm not going to either* Auggie. This is my dilemma to solve* not his."

Auggie took hold of Johanna's arm and started down the steep hill. "You've been here how long now?"

"Almost twelve weeks."

"You were content for a time* weren't you now?"

She nodded. "I was content."

"Why?"

She was surprised by his question. She shrugged. "Coming here made me… free. And safe*" she hastily added.

"You were like a dove with a broken wing*" Auggie said. He patted her hand before continuing. "And as timid as I've ever seen."

"I'm not timid now*" she countered. "At least not when I'm with you."

"I've seen the changes in you. The others haven't. In time I imagine they will notice you've got a bit of gumption."

She didn't know if she'd just been given a setdown or praise. "But the stealing* Auggie. What should I do about my husband?"

"Leave it be for now*" he suggested. " 'Tis the truth I can't get riled up about a little thieving. My laird promised to bring me barley* and I'm anxious to have it* sin or not. It's for the making of my brew*" he added with a nod. "The English drank all of my reserves* lass." He snorted with laughter* leaned closer to her side* and whispered* "They didn't get to the barrels of liquid gold though."

"What are barrels of liquid gold?"

"Do you remember the break in the pines beyond the ridge?"

"Yes."

"There's a cave directly behind*" he announced. "It's full of oak barrels."

"But what's inside the barrels?"

"The water of life*" he answered. "Brew as old as ten* even fifteen* years now. It should be tasting like gold I'll wager. One of these days I'll take you there to have a look for yourself. The only reason it's stayed untouched is because the English didn't know it was there for the taking."

"Does my husband know about the cave?"

Auggie thought about the question a long while before answering. "I don't recall telling him*" he admitted. "And I'm the only one who remembers when the old Maclaurin chieftains stored the barrels there. They weren't telling* of course* but I followed them one afternoon without their knowing. I can be quiet when I set my mind to the task*" he added with a nod.

"When did you last go inside the cave?"

"A few years back*" Auggie told her. "Do you notice* Johanna* that when you wear the MacBain plaid you play a fair game* but when you're wearing the Maclaurin colors* you can't hit a thing?"

He was talking nonsense* of course. He liked to tease her. She thought it was just his way of showing affection.

As soon as they reached the courtyard* Auggie took off down the hill. She spotted Keith* bowed to him* and then hurried past. She'd felt uncomfortable around the Maclaurin soldier ever since he'd explained the real meaning behind the nickname the Maclaurin women had given her.

She also wanted to wash her hands before her husband came home and noticed how dirty they were. He could be very unreasonable about her appearance; but since he demanded little enough from her* she tried to please him whenever possible.

Johanna was just starting up the steps to her home when a shout sounded behind her. She turned and saw soldiers running toward her. Several had their swords drawn.

She didn't know what all the fuss was about. "Get inside* m'lady. Pull the door closed behind you." Keith shouted his instruction. Johanna wasn't going to argue with the soldier or question him now. She assumed they were under attack by intruders and hurried to do as she was ordered.

Then she heard the low* menacing growl. She turned around again. She spotted her husband's pet slowly making his way across the courtyard. She cried out at the sight of the beast. Dumfries was covered with blood. From the distance she could see his left hindquarter had been ripped to shreds.

The hound was trying to come home to die. Johanna's eyes filled with tears as she watched Dumfries struggle.

The soldiers made a wide circle around the dog. "Go inside* Lady Johanna." Keith bellowed his order. She suddenly understood what they meant to do. They were going to kill the wolfhound to put him out of his misery. The way they warily moved toward the hound told her they believed he might turn on one of them.

Johanna wasn't about to let any more harm come to the dog. One soldier started to move forward with his sword raised to strike.

"Leave him alone."

The fury in her shout gained every soldier's attention. They turned to look at her* their surprise most evident in their gaping expressions.

A few of the Maclaurin soldiers actually backed away from the dog. The MacBain warriors didn't move from their positions* however.

Keith rushed up the steps. He grabbed hold of Johanna's arm. "You needn't witness this*" he announced. "Please go inside."

She jerked her arm away from the soldier's hold. "Dumfries wants to come inside. He sleeps by the fire. That's where he's going. Hold the doors open* Keith. Do it now."

She shouted the last of her command before turning back to the other soldiers. She didn't believe Dumfries would allow any of the men to assist him. She knew the dog must be in terrible pain* for his gait faltered again and again as he slowly made his way over to the steps.

"M'lady* at least get out of his range."

"Tell the men to let him come inside."

"But m'lady…"

"Do as I've ordered*" she commanded. "If anyone touches Dumfries* he'll answer to me."

The tone of her voice told Keith it was pointless to argue with her. He gave the command* then grabbed his mistress's arm again and tried to drag her back through the entrance.

"The doors* Keith. Keep them open."

Johanna didn't take her gaze off the dog when she gave the order. Leila and Megan* the two Maclaurin women assigned the duty of cleaning the great hall and the chambers above* came running to the doorway.

"Dear God*" Megan whispered. "What happened to him?"

"Get back* m'lady*" Leila cried out. "Poor Dumfries. He can't make it up the steps. They'll have to kill him…"

"No one's touching him*" Johanna snapped. "Megan* fetch my needle and threads. Leila* there's a satchel under my bed filled with jars of herbs and medicines. Get it for me."

Dumfries collapsed on the third step. He let out a whimper and tried to stand up again. He alternated between yelps and growls now. Johanna couldn't stand the sight of his agony a moment longer. She'd hoped to approach the hound inside by the fire while he was at rest but knew he wouldn't make it inside without her.

She pulled away from Keith and ran to help. The dog let out a loud growl when she approached him. She slowed her pace* put her hand out* and began to whisper words meant to soothe the beast.

Keith once again tried to drag her back. The hound let out an even louder growl when the soldier touched her.

She ordered Keith back. She looked up and saw that two MacBain soldiers had their arrows notched to their bows. They were protecting her whether she wished it or not. If the hound tried to snap at her* their arrows would kill him before real damage was done.

Johanna's compassion for the wounded animal warred with her fear. Aye* she was terrified; and when she slowly bent down to put her arms around the beast* she couldn't control her own whimpers.

The hound didn't let up his growling* but he allowed her assistance.

Johanna didn't realize her own strength. The dog leaned into her side. She almost toppled over from the weight* righted herself* and once again wrapped her arms around him. She held him behind his front legs. Bent as she was to her task* the side of her face was pressed against his neck. She kept up a steady stream of encouraging words and half-dragged the dog up the rest of the steps. It was backbreaking work* but when they'd cleared the last step* the dog found new strength and pulled away from her. He growled again and went in through the opening.

Dumfries paused at the top of the steps leading down into the great hall. Johanna again came to his assistance and half-carried him down the stairs.

Men putting the finishing touches on the mantel with their brushes quickly moved out of the way as Dumfries walked toward them. The dog circled the area in front of the hearth twice* then began to whimper. He was obviously in too much pain now to lie down.

Megan came running with the supplies Johanna had requested. Her mistress sent her back with the order to get the blanket off the bed.

"I'll get a fresh one from the chest* m'lady*" Megan called out.

"No*" Johanna said. "Take the one from my bed* Megan. Dumfries will be comforted by my husband's scent."

A few minutes later Megan tossed the blanket to her mistress. Johanna knelt down on the floor and made a bed for the dog. When she was finished* she patted the cover and ordered the dog down.

Dumfries circled once again* then collapsed on his side.

"You've gotten the beast inside* m'lady*" Keith whispered from behind her. "That was quite an accomplishment."

She shook her head. "That was easy*" she answered. "What conies next is a little more challenging. I'm going to sew him up. 'Tis the truth I dread the duty. Dumfries isn't going to understand."

She patted the side of Dumfries's neck again before leaning forward on her knees to look at the deep gash in his left flank.

"You can't be serious* m'lady. The hound will kill you if you touch his injury."

"I sincerely hope not*" Johanna replied.

"But you're afraid of him." The soldier blurted out the reminder.

"Yes*" she agreed* "I am afraid. It doesn't change anything though* does it? Dumfries still has an injury and I still have to sew him up. Leila? Have you found the jars of medicines?"

"Aye* m'lady."

Johanna turned and spotted Leila and Megan standing side by side on the top step. Megan held up the needle and ball of white thread* and Leila clutched her mistress's gray satchel in her arms.

"Bring them to me* please* and put them on the blanket."

Leila and Megan didn't move from the top of the steps. They started toward her when she motioned to them but stopped suddenly. Dumfries was at it again* growling low in his throat. The sound he made was very like what Johanna imagined a demon let loose from hell would make. It was quite chilling.

The women were afraid to come any closer. The realization astonished Johanna. She thought she was the only one who found the hound intimidating. She took sympathy on the women and went over to collect her supplies from them.

"Do be careful* m'lady*" Leila whispered.

Johanna nodded. She was ready to begin her work a few minutes later. Keith wasn't about to let her take the chance of being bitten by the hound while she worked on him. He knelt down behind Dumfries and positioned himself so that he could easily grab hold of the dog's neck and pin him down if he tried to harm his mistress.

The dog amazed both Johanna and the soldier. He never made a sound all the while she prodded at him. Johanna made enough noise for the two of them. She whispered apologies and moaned every time she touched the injury with the linen square she'd soaked in the cleaning salve. She knew the medicine burned* and so she blew on each spot after she'd applied the thick liquid.

Into the chaos came Gabriel. Johanna had just threaded the needle when she heard her husband's voice behind her.

"What the hell happened?"

Johanna let out a little sigh of relief. She turned on her knees to look up at her husband. Lord* she had never been so relieved to see him. She watched as he walked across the hall to stand over her. His big hands were settled on his hips. His gaze was directed on his hound.

Keith immediately stood up. The other soldiers who'd followed him into the great hall moved back to give Keith room.

"I'd wager Dumfries met up with a wolf or two*" Keith speculated.

"Think he found our pet?" Calum asked the question. He walked over to stand next to Keith.

Johanna went back to her task. She tied the knot in her thread* then put the needle down and reached for the second jar of medicine.

"You have another pet* m'lord?" she asked while she gently dabbed the yellow ointment on the cut. She used another linen square to smooth the healing salve along the jagged edges.

"The Maclaurins call one particular wolf Pet. Your hand's shaking."

"I can see it is."

"Why?"

"Your dog terrifies me."

Johanna finished dabbing the medicine on the injury. The salve would protect the cut from infection. It also had a side benefit of numbing the area. Dumfries would barely feel the sting of her needle.

"Yet she's tending him* Laird."

"I can see she is* Keith*" Gabriel replied.

"The difficult part's over*" Johanna said. "Dumfries shouldn't feel the rest of my prodding. Besides…"

"Besides what?"

She whispered her explanation* but Gabriel couldn't make out the words. He knelt down beside his wife. He placed his hand on the dog's neck. Dumfries immediately tried to lick his fingers.

"What did you just say?" he asked his wife while he stroked his hound.

"I said* you're here now*" she whispered. She glanced over* saw his arrogant expression* and immediately added* "Dumfries will be comforted. He has great affection for you* m'lord. I imagine he knows you'll keep him safe."

"You know it too* Johanna."

She knew he expected her agreement. She decided his arrogance would get completely out of hand if she admitted she did feel safe when he was near* and so she remained silent.

It didn't take her any time at all to sew the injury closed. Gabriel helped her wrap wide cotton strips around and around the dog. He tied the ends together.

"He won't leave this alone for long*" her husband predicted.

She nodded. She was suddenly overwhelmed with fatigue. Fear had drained her of her strength* she supposed.

[Dalyia]

She collected her supplies and stood up. A crowd of curious men and women stood behind her. Johanna spotted Glynis in the group and immediately turned her gaze away.

"She carried your dog inside* MacBain. Aye* she did."

As Keith told a somewhat exaggerated version* Johanna continued through the crowd. She hurried up the steps and down the hall to her chamber. She put her supplies away* washed her hands again* and then took off her shoes so she could stretch out on the bed. She planned to rest for just a few minutes and then return to the hall for dinner.

She fell asleep a few minutes later. Gabriel came up to the room twice during the evening to look in on her. He finally came to bed around midnight after making certain Dumfries was resting comfortably.

Johanna barely moved while her husband took off her clothes. She opened her eyes once* frowned up at him* and then promptly fell asleep again. Gabriel took a fresh blanket from the chest and covered his wife before he stripped out of his own clothes and got into bed beside her.

He didn't have to reach for her. The minute he was settled* she rolled over into his embrace. He pulled her closer. She tucked her head under his chin.

Gabriel recounted in his mind the story Keith had related to him. He tried to picture his wife wrapping her arms around Dumfries and dragging the hound up the steps.

The courage his wife had shown pleased him. Still* he didn't want her to take such chances in future. Dumfries had been in pain* and a wounded animal* no matter how loyal* wasn't to be trusted.
Tomorrow he would order her never to take such risks again. Gabriel fell asleep worrying about his delicate little bride.

[Dalyia]

Chapter 9

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Gabriel knew* before he'd even opened his eyes the following morning* that his wife wasn't in bed with him.

Hell* it was just a little past dawn* and he as laird and husband should have been the first to leave the bed. His irritation softened* however* with the thought that she was probably downstairs waiting for him in the great hall. She had looked worried about Dumfries the night before* he remembered* and she was no doubt still fretting over the animal.

The Maclaurin plaid was draped over a chair. Johanna had gotten her days mixed up* for she had obviously dressed in the MacBain colors two days in a row. The Maclaurins were sure to kick up a fuss* and damn it all* he didn't have time for such puny* inconsequential matters.

Both Keith and Calum were already waiting for him in the hall. They bowed to their laird when he appeared at the entrance.

"Where's my wife?"

Calum and Keith exchanged a worried look* then Calum stepped forward to answer. "We thought she was above the stairs with you* MacBain."

"She isn't."

"Then where is she?" Calum asked.

Gabriel glared at the soldier. " 'Twas the question I just put to you*" he snapped.

Dumfries lifted his head at the sound of his master's voice. His tail thumped against the rushes. Gabriel went over to the hound* bent down on one knee* and pounded the side of the dog's neck.

"Do I have to carry you outside* Dumfries?"

"Lady Johanna has already taken your pet outside* Laird."

Leila called out the news from the entrance. She hurried down the steps* smiled at Calum and Keith* and then turned to her laird. "She gave him food and water* too. She declared your pet's feeling much better today."

"How would she know so soon he's better?" Keith asked.

Leila smiled. "I asked her the very same question* and she told me his growl is a little stronger today. That was how she knew he had improved."

"Where is she?" Gabriel demanded.

"She went riding*" Leila answered. "She declared it was too fine a day to stay inside."

"My wife went riding alone?"

Gabriel didn't wait for an answer. He muttered a dark blasphemy as he left the hall. Keith and Calum started after him.

"I take full responsibility should anything happen to our mistress*" Keith announced. "I should have gotten here sooner. Today's my day to protect her*" he added as explanation. "Damn but I wish she'd stay where she's put."

"But she was wearing the MacBain plaid*" Leila called out.

"She shouldn't be*" Keith said.

"But she is* sir."

Calum scratched his jaw. "She's gotten her days mixed up*" he decided aloud. He winked at Leila when he passed her* then increased his stride to catch up with Keith.

Gabriel controlled his worry by getting angry. He'd been most specific with his wife during the past several weeks. She was to rest* damn it. Riding out alone in the hills infested with wolves wasn't his idea of a rest. Did he have to keep her under lock and key? By God* he'd ask her that question just as soon as he found her.

Sean* the stable master* spotted his laird coming his way and immediately prepared his stallion for the day's hunt. He was just leading the black beauty out when Gabriel reached him. He snapped the reins out of Sean's hands* grunted a response to the stable master's greeting* and gained his stallion's back in one fluid motion. The horse was in a full gallop by the time he'd crossed the meadow. Auggie heard the pounding of hooves and lifted his head. He was down on his knees measuring the distance from one hole he'd just dug to the next. He hurried to stand up and bowed when his laird stopped his mount a scant foot away.

"Good day to you* Laird MacBain."

"Good day to you* Auggie*" Gabriel responded. He scanned the meadow* then turned his gaze back to the old warrior. "Have you seen my wife?"

"I'm seeing her now* MacBain." Auggie motioned with his hand. Gabriel turned in his saddle and looked up. He spotted Johanna immediately. She was on the north ridge* seated atop her mount. "What the hell is she doing?" he muttered to himself. "Contemplating her circumstances*" Auggie answered. "What in God's name does that mean?"

"I wouldn't be knowing* MacBain. I'm just repeating her words to me. She's been up there over an hour. I'd wager she's worked it all out in her mind by now."

Gabriel nodded. He goaded his mount into a full run. "It's a fine day to ride*" Auggie shouted.

"It's a finer day to stay inside*" Gabriel muttered in reply.

Johanna was just about to ride back down to the meadow when she noticed her husband coming up the ridge. She waved in greeting* then folded her hands together on top of the reins and waited for him to come to her.

She was more than ready to take him on* she decided. She took a deep breath in anticipation. It was time for her to put her new plan into action. She was a little nervous* but that was to be expected. She wasn't used to taking charge. That wasn't going to stop her though. By God* she was responsible for her destiny* she thought to herself. She needed to explain that fact to her husband.

Johanna had awakened a full hour before dawn and had spent the time thinking about all the changes she wanted to make. Most involved her own behavior* but there were also a few changes she planned to help her husband make.

Gabriel's pet had actually started her thinking. Johanna had learned something very revealing when she'd taken care of the dog's injury. First came the observation that his growl was all bluster* a sign of affection really. Second came the realization she didn't need to fear the beast. A firm pat and a kind word had won her Dumfries's loyalty. This morning* when she'd fed the wolfhound* he'd growled with affection while he licked her hand.

Not unlike his master.

Her husband's scowls no longer worried her. Johanna had to remind herself of that fact when he reached her side.

"You were ordered to rest*" he snapped* his voice hard with anger.

She ignored his hostile greeting. "Good morning* husband. Did you sleep well?"

Gabriel was so close to her* his right leg pressed against her left thigh. Johanna couldn't suffer his frown long and turned her gaze to her lap. She didn't want his glare to bother her concentration. She had quite a bit to say to her husband* and it was important she remembered every one of her thoughts.

He noticed his wife had her bow and arrows in a leather carrier strapped to her back. Bringing the weapon along showed good sense* he decided* providing she was accurate in the event of an attack. Practicing with a target pinned to a tree was one thing* but the real proof in her ability would be shown on a moving target… such as a hungry wolf or an angered* charging boar. Those thoughts led to the reminder of the dangers lurking in the hills beyond. His scowl immediately intensified.

"You blatantly disregarded my instructions* Johanna. You are not allowed…"

She leaned to the side of her saddle* reached up* and gently stroked the side of his neck with her fingertips. The caress had been butterfly light* and over before he even had time to react* but it still managed to break his concentration.

Her touch stunned him. Johanna sat back* folded her hands together* and smiled up at him.

[Dalyia]

He had to shake his head to clear his thoughts. Then he started over again.

"You have no idea of the dangers…"

She did it again. Damned if she didn't deliberately break his concentration by stroking the side of his neck. He grabbed hold of her hand before she could pull away.

"What the hell are you doing?"

"Patting you."

He started to say something* then changed his mind. He stared at her a long minute* trying to understand what had come over her.

"Why?" he finally demanded* his expression wary.

"I wanted to show you affection* m'lord. Does my touch displease you?"

"No*" he growled.

He grabbed hold of her chin with his hand and leaned down. His mouth covered hers in a long* hard kiss.

She melted against his side* put her arms around his neck* and clung to him as the kiss deepened.

Johanna didn't know how it happened; but when her husband finally pulled back* she was seated on his lap.

He held her close. She collapsed against his chest* let out a little sigh* and smiled with satisfaction.

She wanted to laugh. Dear God* it really worked. She had just proven a most important theory. Gabriel and his hound were actually very much alike. Her husband liked to bluster as much as his pet did.

"It is permitted for a wife to show her husband affection."

He was giving her his approval* she supposed. And Lord* did he sound arrogant. She leaned away from him so she could look up at him.

"Is it permitted for a husband to take his wife riding?"

"Of course. A husband can do anything he wishes to do."

So can a wife* she thought to herself. "Why are you always so serious* m'lord? 'Tis the truth you don't smile enough to suit me."

"I'm a warrior* Johanna."

From the look on his face she assumed he believed he'd given her a full and logical explanation.

He lifted her back on her mount. "You rarely smile*" he remarked. "Why is that?"

"I'm a warrior's wife* m'lord."

She smiled after giving him her tart answer. He couldn't help but grin.

"You're very handsome when you smile* m'lord."

"But you dislike handsome men* remember?"

"I remember. I was trying to compliment you* sir."

"Why?"

She didn't answer him. "What were you doing up here all by yourself?"

She answered his question with one of her own. "Could you spare an hour and ride with me? I'm on a hunt to find a cave Auggie told me about. There's a treasure inside."

"And what is this treasure?"

She shook her head. "You'll have to help me find the cave first. Then I'll tell you what's inside. I know how busy you are* but surely one hour won't matter* will it?"

He frowned while he considered her request. He did have important duties set aside for today and they should come first* of course. Riding for sheer pleasure didn't make any sense at all to him. It wasn't… productive.

Yet the idea of spending a few minutes* and that was surely all he could spare* with his beautiful wife did appeal to him.

"You may lead the way* Johanna. I'll follow."

"Thank you* m'lord."

She looked overwhelmed with gratitude. His gentle little wife derived such joy from little pleasures. Gabriel suddenly felt like an ogre because he had taken time to consider her request.

Johanna wasn't about to give him time to change his mind. She wanted to get him away from his holding… and his responsibilities so that she could have a long talk in private with him. She grabbed the reins and goaded her mount into a full run down the hill.

She was a skilled rider. The realization surprised him. She seemed too delicate for any outdoor skills.

Gabriel was content to stay behind her until they reached the forest. Then he took over the lead.

They criss-crossed back and forth while they looked for the entrance to the cave. After an hour's search* Johanna was ready to give up. "Next time we must ask Auggie to ride with us. He'll point the way."

They broke through the trees and stopped in a narrow clearing next to the stream overlooking the valley.

"Are you ready to go back?" Gabriel asked.

"I wanted to talk to you first* m'lord* and if I weren't so hungry* I would beg you to stay here the rest of the day. It's so lovely. Do you notice how green and lush your valley is?" Her eyes sparkled with mischief when she added* "And to think you have such a mild climate all year long. I count myself fortunate each and every day. Aye* I do."

Gabriel found her enthusiasm refreshing. He'd never seen her in such a lighthearted mood before. It warmed his heart. God's truth* he was reluctant to leave* too.

"I can take care of satisfying your hunger* wife."

She turned to look at him. "Will you hunt for food?"

"Nay* I carry everything we'll need."

Gabriel dismounted* then assisted her to the ground. "You're too thin* Johanna. You barely weigh two stones."

She ignored his criticism. "Where is this food you boast of* husband? Will it appear like manna from the sky* do you suppose?"

He shook his head. She watched as he lifted the flap of his saddle and removed a flat metal plate. Behind the saddle was a bag tied with a string.

He motioned her to walk over to the clearing. He tied the reins of both their mounts to one of the branches before he joined her.

"Take off your plaid* Johanna. We'll use it for a blanket. Spread it on the ground near the pines."

"It probably isn't decent."

The sassy tone of her voice told him she didn't mind if she was decent or not. Her lighthearted mood puzzled him and made him determined to find out what had caused this change. Johanna was usually very reserved.

A few minutes later* she was seated on her plaid watching Gabriel prepare their food. He'd started a fire with peat and twigs* then placed the metal plate in the center of the flames. He then sprinkled oatmeal from the pouch into one cupped hand* added water he'd gathered from the stream* and quickly formed a thick oat cake. He dropped the mixture on the plate* and while it cooked* he made another.

The oatmeal cake tasted like baked sticks mixed with dust to Johanna* but because her husband had taken the time and trouble to prepare the food* she didn't let him know how horrid it tasted.

Gabriel thought the expression on her face while she nibbled on the oatmeal was comical. She made several trips to the stream for drinks of water to wash the food down* and she could only eat half the cake before she declared she was quite full.

"It was thoughtful of you to bring the food along*" she remarked.

"Every warrior always carries his food on his back* Johanna." He sat down beside her* leaned back against the tree trunk* and added* "We take everything we need for a hunt or a war. Highlanders are self-sufficient. We don't have need for bread or wine or carts loaded down with pots and caldrons like the pampered English soldiers. Our plaids are our tents or our blankets* and what other food we want* we take from the land."

"Or steal from the other clans?"

"Yes."

"It's wrong to take without permission."

"It's our way*" he explained once again.

"Do the other clans steal from you?"

"We don't have anything they would want."

"Do they all steal from each other?"

"Of course."

"It's most barbaric*" she decided aloud. "Don't any of the lairds ever barter for what they need?"

"Some do*" Gabriel answered. "Twice a year council meetings are held near the Moray Firth. Clans not feuding attend. I've heard there's a fair amount of bartering done then."

"You've heard? Then you've never attended any of these meetings?"

"No."

She waited for further explanation. He remained silent. "Haven't you been invited?"

She sounded incensed over the possible insult. "Every laird is invited* wife."

"Then why in heaven's name haven't you attended?"

"I haven't had the time or the inclination. Besides* as I've already explained to you several times now* we don't have anything to barter."

"But if you did?" she asked. "Would you attend the council meeting?"

He shrugged his answer.

She let out a sigh. "What does Father MacKechnie have to say about stealing?"

His wife seemed obsessed with her worry about the priest's opinion. "He doesn't criticize us if that's what you're thinking. He knows it would be pointless to argue. Survival conies before paltry concerns such as venial sins."

She was quite astonished by her husband's attitude. Damned envious* too. It would be nice not to worry about sinning all the time.

"Father MacKechnie is an unusual priest."

"Why do you say that?"

"He's very kind. That makes him unusual."

Gabriel frowned over her comment. "What are the priests in England like?"

"Cruel." She blurted out her belief and immediately felt guilty because she'd lumped all the men of God in with the few mean-hearted ones she'd known. "Some are probably kind-hearted*" she added with a nod. "I'm certain some are very good men who don't believe women come last in God's love."

"Women are what?"

"Last in God's love*" she explained. She straightened up but kept her head bowed. "You might as well know I'm not in good standing with the church* Gabriel."

She acted as though she was giving him a dark confession. "And why is that* Johanna?"

"I'm a rebel*" she whispered.

He smiled. She thought he might think she was jesting. "I am a rebel*" she said again. "I don't believe everything the church teaches."

"Such as?" he asked.

"I don't believe God loves women less than he loves oxen." Gabriel had never heard of anything so preposterous.

"Who told you…"

She interrupted him. "Bishop Hallwick liked to list God's hierarchy as a reminder to me of my insignificance. He said that unless I learned true humility and submissiveness* I would never sleep with the angels."

"This bishop was your confessor?"

"For a time*" she answered. "Because of Raulf's important position* the bishop was his advisor and his confessor. He dictated many penances."

Gabriel could all but taste her fear. He leaned forward and put his hand on her shoulder. She flinched in reaction.