"I noticed," Neacal muttered, glaring back toward the dungeon entrance.
"Did Anna not mention anything about a brother or her father's natural children?"
"Nay. I think this will be a tremendous surprise to her."
Colin shrugged. "If 'tis true, I hope the ladies will view the situation favorably."
"I wish we had proof, or a witness, at least. 'Tis difficult to go on a stranger's word only."
***
Colin watched as Anna led Kristina into the library and helped her get seated at the table. Both sisters appeared anxious.
"What is this about, Neacal?" Anna stood behind her sister's chair.
Neacal paced, then placed his hand on the mantel. "First, we need to ask how Ralston treated you on the journey from Stirling, Kristina."
"Oh." Her face brightened. "As I said, he was kind and helpful. Whether we were in a village tavern or out on the moor, he brought me food and drink. When Holme attacked me in the tent one night, Ralston dragged him out and got into a fist-fight with him. Ralston told me I reminded him of his sister. Why do you ask?"
Neacal raised a brow, sending Colin a leery glance. Were they wondering the same thing? Had Ralston been trying to feed her a suggestion so she would think of him as a brother and trust him?
Neacal inhaled a deep breath and let it out. "Do you ladies have a half-brother?"
Anna frowned. "Nay, why?"
"Ralston!" Kristina announced, her face alive with excitement.
"You know of this?" Colin asked, shocked.
"What?" Anna demanded, looking confused. "We have a half-brother?"
"I sensed it. He seems like a brother to me." Kristina grinned. "I always wanted a brother."
"What did he tell you?" Anna asked Neacal.
"He said he is your father's natural child, but he never met the man. On her deathbed, his mother told him his father's name and that he has two sisters."
"Good heavens," Anna breathed and dropped into the chair beside her sister. "What is his first name? How old is he?"
"His first name is Finlay."
Anna gasped, her eyes wide. "That's our da's name."
Kristina's mouth dropped open. "I never thought to ask his given name."
"It could be a lie," Colin muttered. "That information would be easy to find out. All of this could be a grand scheme as he tries to get closer to you ladies for some nefarious purpose."
"There is no nefarious purpose, Colin," Kristina said in a persuasive tone. "I wish to talk to him, please."
Colin exhaled an annoyed breath and glanced to Neacal to see what he thought of the idea. His scowl said everything.
"Did he tell you his age?" Anna wondered.
"Nay, but he appears to be in his early twenties," Neacal said.
Curiosity lit Anna's green eyes. "I need to know more. I want to speak with him, too."
Neacal stared at her intently, concern and worry in his gaze.
