Page 35 of Highland Lords of War & Thunder: The Prequel

“Come on, you two,” Tate said. “I've work to do in the fields, and I could use some help.”

“I want to stay with Creagan,” Jennie protested.

“So do I,” Peter said.

“And Creagan has things he needs to see to before he leaves,” Tate said and managed to herd them toward the door despite their continued protests.

Jennie twisted around for one last look at Creagan before stepping outside. “You promise?”

Her eyes wet with tears hurt his heart. “I promise, sweetheart. You will see me again.”

Creagan straightened as the door closed.

Fay was staring at him.

He forced a smile. “What?”

“Don't think you can charm me.”

“I wasn't trying to.”

“Then you're losing your touch.” She folded her arms across her chest. “What's going on?”

“Nothing.”

“Creagan.”

He shook his head. There were women he could fool with a smile and a few well-chosen words. Fay had never been one of them.

“Why are you really leaving? And I will have the truth,” she ordered like only a friend could.

The truth wasn’t something Creagan could share with her, but he could make it a partial truth.

He walked to the table and picked up his pack. “What Tate said last night got me thinking. If there truly is trouble brewing for the queen, I know of some men who serve her in just such a situation.”

Fay's brow creased. “What men?”

“Men who know how to deal with such trouble.”

“And you're going to find them?” she asked skeptically.

He nodded. “Aye, I am.”

“To what end?” She all but demanded.

Creagan hesitated. “To join them, if they'll have me.”

Fay stared at him, then laughed.

Creagan frowned. “I'm pleased you find the idea amusing.”

“Any man who wouldn't have you fighting beside him is a fool.”

His smile, that could so easily charm, returned. “I knew eventually you'd say something nice about me.”

Her smile faded. “You're serious about this.”

Creagan glanced toward the window. Peter and Jennie were crossing the yard after Tate, Murph bounding alongside them.