“Many a night,” Ailis replied softly, “I have wondered at their shimmering dance.” She found his inquiry, unrelated to duty or alliance, refreshing and curious. In his company, she felt an unexpected ease.
As they conversed, Ailis realized Lachlan’s wit was matched only by his attentiveness. His questions sought understanding, not advantage. She found herself fascinated by Lachlan’s conversation and eagerly responded to him.
The meal ended, and silence fell between them, thick with unspoken thoughts. Lachlan regarded her with earnest eyes beneath furrowed brows. “If I may be so bold,” he began gravely, “are yer feelings for Cameron akin to love?”
Ailis paused. A wildflower’s petals now blurred in her hand. It was a question she had pondered alone before. “Nay,” she answered clearly, “Me heart does not quicken at the thought of him.”
Lachlan nodded silently, an acknowledgment requiring no further words. In that moment, Ailis understood their bond transcended obligation or strategy—a rare connection beyond political machination. For a moment he considered asking if her heart quickened at the thought of him, but he couldn’t do it. Nay, he’d let her figure that out in her own time.
As remnants of their feast lay forgotten, they lingered in the glen. Duty would call them back soon enough, but for now, they relished this sacred pause, a respite within the forest’s embrace.
Finally, they rose to head back to the keep and their duties.
“Do ye ever watch the sunset beyond the glen?” Lachlan asked gently.
“Many times,” Ailis answered, gazing at the fading light. “Each one is like a farewell until tomorrow.”
He took her hands in his, gazing into her eyes. “I’m not ready to return. I want many more hours of yer company.” Truly he wanted the rest of her life, but he knew she wasn’t ready to hear that yet.
She smiled. “Nor I.”
“Ailis, ye possess a rare strength,” Lachlan gushed. “Not just with yer physical prowess or respect for nature but in yer very essence.”
Honored by his words, she replied, “Ye’re remarkable too, Lachlan.”
Their lips met in a passionate kiss, sacred and destined. As they parted breathlessly, Ailis’s heart raced. Her love for Lachlan surpassed any emotion she’d experienced before.
On their return to the keep, Ailis was enveloped by a newfound shyness. Each glance and caress resonated with undiscovered possibilities.
“Ailis,” Lachlan began, breaking their silence. “No matter which path ye choose, I’ll be honored to walk it by yer side.”
Ailis offered a soft smile, exuding emotions deeper than words. In Lachlan’s company, she discovered more than just a confidante or suitor. She found a man who shared her spirit.
As the keep’s shadowy outline appeared, Ailis braced herself against the emotional storm brewing within. Though duty demanded their separation, the intoxicating kiss forged a bond unbreakable by obligation. The man who could ignite such passion with a simple touch was undeniably her destined partner.
Ailis and Lachlan walked toward the keep, both regretting their need to leave their private spot in the woods. The cool air carried a faint scent of peat smoke from hearths awaiting their return.
A gentle hush enveloped them, solidifying an unspoken bond between two hearts. Lachlan’s presence steadied Ailis’s fluttering heart.
In the periphery, Cameron stood, weary from the day’s toils. Lachlan’s gaze flickered in his direction. Recognition flashed within his eyes, followed by a subtle tightening of his jaw. His silence shielded Ailis and himself from past entanglements.
Ailis remained unaware of Cameron’s nearness, drawn solely to Lachlan as he guided her through the castle grounds with quiet assurance.
They passed Cameron, leaving behind old shadows for new promises—a future free from doubt or hesitation.
As Ailis went to see where she was needed, her mind lingered on the time she’d spent with Lachlan. She didn’t know how she had been confused about whether to choose Lachlan or Cameron. Lachlan was the one who filled her mind and aroused so much passion within her.
Aye, Lachlan was the only man she wanted to be with for the rest of her days.
