Laughter bubbled up in her chest. “Mr. Kendrick, are you suggesting what I think you’re suggesting?”
He returned to her and gathered her up in his arms. “Let’s find out, shall we? And I think we’ve had enough of our blasted families for one day. Right now, it’s just you and me.”
Charlie sank into his embrace, happiness flooding every part of her being. In Kade’s arms, she knew she’d never be lonely again. And with him by her side, she could take on the world.
EPILOGUE
Castle Kinglas
October 1828
“Kade, tip your chin up,” Nick said, frowning. “I’m not sure your neckcloth is sitting correctly.”
His neckcloth was fine, but Kade knew that the Laird of Clan Kendrick was fussing to cover his emotions. It was a special day for all of them because Kade was about to be married to the woman he loved, with his entire family attending in all their chaotic glory.
Nick took a step back, inspecting him with a critical eye. “There, now you’ll do. Even Lady Kinloch won’t be able to find fault.”
“It’s not my future mother-in-law who’s the problem,” Kade replied. “It’s Lord Kinloch. I’m not sure he truly approves of me.”
“Only because you’re taking his beloved daughter on a tour of England and then the Continent. I get the sense that Kinloch was hoping Charlotte would remain closer to home.”
“The tour is bad timing in that respect, but I did promise we would return to Glencoe whenever we could. It’s Charlie’s home, and she loves it.”
Thankfully, Charlie was now as excited for the tour as Kade was. His new concerto, finally finished, was his best work to date—thanks to his fiancée. Her talent and her inspiration had been critical in bringing his ideas to fruition. It was a blessing beyond measure that they could be partners in all aspects of their new life.
“Her home is now with you, lad,” his brother replied. “And yours with her.”
Kade smiled. “True, that.”
“Still, I certainly understand Lord Kinloch’s feelings. We don’t see you nearly as much as we’d like, either.”
“Not to worry,” he wryly replied. “Vicky practically made swear on the old family bible that Charlie and I would return to Scotland at least twice a year. If not, she’ll send Angus after us, and I think we can all agree that is something to be avoided.”
Nick laughed. “Yes, the notion of Grandda rampaging around the Continent in your wake is rather alarming.”
“Especially to me.”
With his usual uncanny timing, the old boy chose that moment to stomp into the vestry. “I’ll have none of yer sass, laddie boy. Ye’ll nae want me boxin’ yer ears on yer weddin’ day.”
Kade snorted. “Well, at least I’ve graduated from you paddling my bum. I suppose that’s a good thing.”
“Och, yer too big now. But I’ve been thinkin’ . . . it would nae be a bad thing if I went with ye on yer tour. Ye’ll be wantin’ to spend time with Charlie, and I can take care of all them little details ye hate fussin’ about. Like talkin’ to some nincompoop of an orchestra conductor and such. I could also look after yer health, just in case ye have any relapses.”
“Grandda, I love you,” Kade replied, “but taking care of me is now Charlie’s job. I’ll be just fine.”
Angus shook his head. “Ye’ll be wantin’ to spend time with yer lady, not fiddlin’ with fussy details. Besides, if ye get into any more spy business, ye’ll be needin’ me to watch yer back.”
Kade glanced at Nick, silently pleading for help. His brother, however, was too busy stifling laughter.
“My spy days are over, Grandda,” Kade firmly said. “From now on, I promise to stick to music only.”
His grandfather looked doubtful. “Ye say that, but—”
Nick finally took pity on him. “I’m sorry, Angus, but I simply cannot spare you. Don’t forget we’ve got another baby coming along. You know how much Vicky relies on you for help with the children.”
Angus wavered for a few moments before capitulating. “Aye, she does need me to help with the bairns, especially the wee ones.” He grimaced at Kade. “I’m sorry, lad. Ye’ll just have to do without me.”
“It’s all right, Grandda. And I’ll miss you, too.”
