"We brought your horse, Chief," Ewan told Gavin.
"But I'm nay longer the chief. My father is."
"Nonsense, Gavin," Lunn said, grinning. "You're doing a fine job. I look forward to being an advisor."
Gavin appeared stunned. "I'm honored you trust me."
"Of course, I do. I may have been half-mad for the past year, but I could still observe and listen. You're a brave and canny leader for our clan. I'm thankful I'm still here to witness it. And to meet your brave and beautiful bride. Soon, I'll be blessed to carry my grandchildren upon my shoulders."
Dani's face heated as she smiled and glanced up at Gavin.
He winked. "Aye, we must have a honeymoon."
"After the feast andcèilidhto celebrate," Lunn said. "All members of the clan are on their way back."
∞∞∞
Gavin rode Gallagher across the moors with his lovely bride behind him. Her arms squeezed him tight as she held on, just as he'd dreamed. Since he didn't care for riding at night, he had not been in the saddle for over a year and was surprised he had lost none of his skill.
His father and the rest of the men proceeded on toward Caithmore while Gavin drew up on a wee hill above the loch. Near the lone oak, he dismounted and helped Dani down.
"Is this tree dead?" she asked.
"Aye." Not wanting to tell her he'd caused it, he glanced aside and noticed something new. "Look, 'tis a wee oak sapling." Glad to see it growing near the parent tree, he pointed.
"Yes, and there's another one." Dani gestured at a spot a few yards away.
"Aye. We must protect them and let them grow. One day, our children's children will climb them."
Nodding, she smiled up at him. "Let's focus on children before the grandchildren."
He chuckled. Hearing hammering, he shifted his attention to the village below. He was thrilled to see a few people milling about. "Someone is already repairing a cottage."
"That's great. I'm thrilled your clan returned."
"As am I." Gazing into the distance, toward the castle, he remembered how she'd enjoyed the view of the scenic Highland landscape a few days ago. "What do you think of that bonny view?"
"It's stunning. Oh, there's the castle at the other end of the loch."
"Aye."
"I wish I had my camera!"
"What is a camera?"
She formed a square with her fingers. "It's a small thing that takes pictures, like an instant painting. Then, I can print it on paper or display it on a screen."
He shook his head. "'Tis amazing what will be invented."
"Yes." Melancholia overshadowed her gaze.
"Will you miss it?"
"Not the inventions. I'll miss my family and friends."
"I am sorry."
"No, don't be. I choose to be in this time, with you."
