Callum gave him a long look. “Is there nae?” he asked.
James did not answer. “It is a marriage of convenience, that is all. I willnae have ye speak to me so. I am yer Laird. That is the end of the matter.”
They rode on in silence until the small village tavern came into view, its low roof and worn wood standing steady against the open land.
As they approached, a few villagers paused in their work, heads bowing respectfully.
“Me Laird,” one man called, dipping his head.
James gave a short nod in return, his posture shifting slightly back into command. He dismounted without ceremony, handing the reins off before stepping inside.
The tavern was warm and dim, filled with the scent of ale and smoke. Conversations quieted briefly at his entrance, a ripple of acknowledgment passing through the room.
James moved to a table without hesitation, Callum following close behind.
“Ale,” James said to the keeper, his tone leaving no room for delay. The man hurried to comply.
“Are we here to continue avoiding the castle,” Callum said.
James took the mug when it arrived, downing a long drink before answering.
“I’ve had matters to attend to,” he replied.
Callum huffed softly. “Aye, I’m sure she’s nae one of them,” he said.
James shot him a look. “Leave it. I've warned ye already,” he said.
Callum raised both hands slightly in mock surrender. “As ye wish,” he said.
Then, after a pause, “What of Mairead?”
James’s expression shifted again, more controlled now. “What of her?” he asked.
“She’s returned,” he said. “That will complicate things, will it nae?”
James let out a slow breath. “Aye,” he said. “I suppose it will.”
Callum studied him closely. “Did ye ever intend to marry her?” he asked.
James shook his head once. “Nay,” he said. “It was expected, but never agreed.”
Callum nodded. “That willnae matter to her,” he said.
“I ken,” James replied. “And I’ll deal with it.”
“Two women now,” he said lightly. “One expected, one unexpected.”
James gave him a hard look. “It isnae a game, Callum,” he said.
Callum’s expression softened slightly. “I ken that,” he said. “But ye’re treatin’ it like a battle.”
James looked down at his drink, his reflection faint in the surface.
“Because that’s what it feels like,” he said quietly.
Callum did not argue that. “Then be sure ye ken which side ye’re fightin’ on,” he said.
James did not respond, but the words stayed with him. His mind churned.
