Page 383 of Wicked Highland Heroes

Riley reluctantly released her, and she flung herself into Victoria’s arms. Iain wasn’t surprised when his wife didn’t bother with a backward glance as she led the girl away. Watching the two of them, it occurred to him his wife was even less alone in the world than he had imagined just that afternoon.

“Thomas,” Iain said. “See to it that the English do not leave the courtyard.”

Thomas smiled and faced Edwin’s men. “Well, lads,” he said as Iain turned back toward the castle, “do you wish to dance more tonight?”

Iain returned to the great hall. Sight of Hockley snapped him from the amusing memory of Victoria’s outraged expression when she’d stated that Riley intended on keeping the girl.

“Where is Victoria?” the earl demanded.

“She is otherwise engaged.” Iain crossed the room and seated himself in his chair. “You have delivered your message, Hockley, what else do you want?”

“I am aware of the circumstances of your marriage, MacPherson.”

“Are you now?”

“You cannot hold her.”

The words were spoken in a low voice, but Iain recognized the threat. “An Englishman with the gift of second sight.” He paused as if to consider.

“Interesting.”

“A forced marriage will not be upheld in a court of law. English or Scot.”

“Did she looked forced?”

“I know Victoria quite well,” Edwin stated. “She is adept at hiding things.”

Iain’s fingers tightened around the arm of his chair. “It is in your best interest to go back where you came from. I have neither the time nor the inclination to listen to the ramblings of yet another Sassenach.”

“My only concern is her happiness,” Edwin said.

“A brother could do no less.”

“A brother can do a great deal less.” Iain came to his feet, bringing the guards to attention. “It might interest you to know, the announcement of your imminent arrival made her decision all the easier.”

A muscle in Edwin’s jaw worked. “If I find she is being held against her will, I will come for her…and you.”

Iain shook his head. “You come into my house and threaten me? I must look the fool.”

“Whether or not you are a fool, only time will tell.”

“I am not such a fool as to leave you to roam free on my land,” Iain interjected. “Take your men and be gone tonight.”

“You would keep me from speaking with her?” Edwin’s tone was calm, the sort of calm spoken by a man who knew his position to be unimpeachable.

“She has expressed no desire to see you. In fact, she appears to be avoiding you.”

“She could do nothing less when you stand nearby like a bird of prey.”

Iain recognized the ploy, but he also knew, as yet, he had no marriage certificate and, as mighty as Clan Chattan was, they would not look kindly on having their confederate brought low by an English sovereign. King James would, no doubt, comply with England were Iain found to be in fault.

“I will allow you to speak with her, but not tonight. You may return tomorrow. That is,” Iain paused, “unless you fear entering Fauldun Castle alone.”

A corner of Edwin’s mouth twisted as he answered, “And if she wishes to return home?”

“She is home.”

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