“’Tis not courage alone that steels me,” Moira continued with a mischievous smile. “Brodie has been aiding me in secret. He has honed me skills with a blade so that when I compete, I shall do so as a warrior of the McAfee.”
Ailis paused, considering her sister’s words. “I’m happy that he has spent time teaching ye more,” she acknowledged. “But we must tread with care.”
“Let them try to defeat us,” Moira declared resolutely. “We are McAfees. We do not bend to whispers in the dark.”
“Aye, we do not,” Ailis concurred softly. She rose to draw the curtains shut against the night’s chill before settling into bed. Beside her, Moira nestled down.
“Goodnight, dear sister,” Moira whispered.
“Goodnight, Moira,” Ailis murmured. Her thoughts lingered on Brodie’s quiet strength and the impending competition. She had every confidence that her sister would win. She had been one of the best before the extra practice. Now she would outshine all the men.
And in that space between wakefulness and sleep, she sensed Lachlan’s kiss. Hopefully, soon, they would be able to spend more time together.
