Colin wished to know the same thing, for he had some concern Kristina could be carrying his own bairn from their one carnal encounter.
"If you must know, the healers confirm she is having her normal monthly courses now."
Uncomfortable about the topic being discussed in such a public setting, Colin cleared his throat.
"Is she an untouched virgin?" Ewan questioned.
Dear lord. 'Twas the topic Colin had hoped to avoid.
His mother glanced at him, a mischievous gleam in her eye. "You would have to ask Colin."
His face heating, he blew out a breath and rolled his eyes. But if they knew the truth, mayhap they would encourage a quicker wedding. "Thank you for that, Ma," he said dryly. "Indeed, we have already… shared a bed, so to speak. And whether she carries my child or not, I feel the most honorable thing to do is to marry her as soon as possible."
His mother raised her brows, though she was clearly not shocked, for she still hid a slight grin.
"I'm sorry." He shrugged. "I was in love with her then, as I am now. I proposed to her just after. Anyway, the healers examined her both times she was abducted and she had no sign of being raped."
"And she is agreeable to the marriage?" Uncle Alan asked.
"Indeed. Her sister and Neacal will stand in as her guardians. Also, their natural brother, Ralston."
"And it matters not to any of us that she's blind," his mother said.
Alan's eyes flared. "What? She's blind?"
"What of it?" His mother waved a hand. "She can be a wonderful wife and mother without her sight. She is a caring, lovable and good woman. She has a strong spirit. That's the important thing. She will help my Colin as he leads the clan and, I'm sure, bear him healthy children. I'll be glad to help with the running of the castle and overseeing the servants. 'Twill give me something to do. I wish to make myself useful."
Colin turned to his mother, wanting to embrace her for her generosity. "You would do that, Ma?"
"Of course. I've done it all these years and I enjoy it."
"How is she getting on? When will she be healed enough for the wedding ceremony?" Ewan asked.
"A month?" his mother suggested.
"Nay, I think a fortnight will be plenty of time," Colin said.
His mother chuckled. "'Haps you can marry her this night in her chamber."
"That would be my preference, but she will not hear of it."
"That will give us time to prepare for a proper wedding feast," his ma said.
"We can hold the inauguration first, in a few days, weather permitting. Are you in agreement?" Ewan asked.
"Aye."
"Good. Your father would be pleased."
Colin thought so, too, as he recalled the last words his father had murmured to him—strong chief, son.
Even though 'twas painful beyond words, he had to follow in his father's footsteps and endeavor to make him proud.
He simply hoped Kristina would be recovered enough to attend the inauguration.
