— I’m sorry—what? I squeak, caught completely off guard.
— The family archery championship, Callum murmurs near my ear. It’s one of the final events today. My mother usually wins—ever since my grandmother stepped aside for the younger generation.
— And now you want me to compete against your mother? I whisper, horrified. The same woman who still occasionally looks at me like I’m a genetic mistake?
— It would be an excellent way to integrate you, he says with a smile that feels suspiciously enthusiastic. And you seem to have a real gift.
— Three lucky shots do not make me an archer, I protest.
— Then five more should settle it, Ewan cuts in, eyes gleaming mischievously.
Before I can argue, I’m dragged into a series of additional shots. To everyone’s surprise—mine most of all—I hit each one with remarkable precision. It’s like the bow and arrows are extensions of my body, like I’ve been doing this my whole life.
By the time I finish, a small crowd has gathered. Even Isobel looks impressed—though she tries to hide it.
— It seems my daughter-in-law has hidden talents, she remarks, something close to approval in her voice.
— It seems so, Heather agrees, her smile tight. What a surprise.
I can’t help savoring her discomfort. For the first time since arriving in Scotland, I feel like I might actually belong among the McGregors.
— So, it’s settled? Maggie claps her hands. Jane will compete in the family championship?
— Wait, I say, suddenly nervous. I’m not sure that’s a good idea. It’s a family tradition, and I’m still new here.
— All the more reason to take part, Maggie declares. Newcomers embrace traditions—they don’t avoid them.
— But—
— It’s decided, she cuts in firmly. The championship starts at five. Ewan, keep training our rising star.
As the crowd disperses, I turn to Callum, searching for backup.
— You’re not seriously going to make me compete, are you? Against your mother, who’s probably been doing this since she could walk?
He shrugs, a faint smile on his lips.
— You know my grandmother by now. No one forces anyone to do anything here. She strongly suggests—and everyone obeys.
— Wonderful, I groan. I’m going to humiliate myself in front of your entire family. Again.
— I don’t think so, he says, looking at me with an intensity that sends a shiver through me. You have a real talent for archery, Jane. And even if you don’t win, the fact that you’re participating means a lot.
— To whom? Your grandmother? Your mother?
— To me, he says simply. And to you, I think.
His words hit deeper than I expect. He’s right. No matter the outcome, stepping into this family tradition is a statement in itself. I’m showing I’m willing to embrace their culture, their customs—their world.
— Fine, I concede at last. But if I make a fool of myself, I’m going to spend the next month reminding you this was your idea.
— Deal, he says with a smile that melts me. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need a word with my best friend.
He turns to Ewan with an expression I can’t quite read. The two of them walk off, launching into what looks like a fairly animated discussion.
Keira slips in beside me.
— So, how are you feeling, Robin Hood? she asks with a wink.
