Page 56 of Marin’s Promise

“It would appear the war brewing between England and Scotland may finally be coming to a head. They will fight at Berwick.”

Bran cursed. “Kerr willna be coming any time soon.” He scrubbed a hand over his wet hair, reminding him he still needed to comb it. At least now he would be able to keep the castle despite Kerr’s delay. Marin’s offer to marry him was more convenient than she realized.

“Send scouts to Mabrick Castle to see what the Grahams may be planning,” Bran said after a long moment. “In the meantime, we shall hope the men assemble quickly for Berwick and the battle is quickly won.”

Drake glanced at him, opened his mouth to speak, and then closed it. He said nothing as he fixed his gaze forward once more.

“What is it?” Bran dragged the comb through his wet hair.

“What will ye do when the earl comes back?” Drake asked. “And if Kerr comes first, will ye give him Werrick?”

“I’m a rich man with bargaining power after today.” Bran gave Drake a confident grin. But in truth, he wasn’t confident at all.

He had set down this path to simply take the castle and save Ena. It was a situation that he would need to work through as events came up. There was no better plan, and Bran had always been good at split-second decisions.

“Are ye ready to be my second?” He turned and lifted his brows.

Drake bowed. “It's an honor.”

Bran adjusted his doublet. “Then let's get me married.”