Page 60 of Highland Sky

“No more lives will be lost over this,” said Nash. “This needs to stop, right here, right now.”

“Then mayhap it is best for all of us to forget what was said here today, and never mention it again.” Tomas walked over and closed the chieftain’s eyes. “I will see to his burial, and then I will take over as chieftain of this clan as he instructed. I think only more anger and problems would arise if we told the clans what really happened. The MacKenzies admired Ciaran. I would hate for them to lose trust over this.”

“As much as I hate to agree, I think he’s right,” said North. “Our clans are aligned by yer marriage to Kellina, Nash. We are allies, so it is done and over.”

“I’ll agree to stay silent,” said Nash with a nod. “We canna change the past, and neither should we try to. Kellina? What do ye say?”

They all stood staring at Kellina, waiting for her answer. She would be the only one to give them trouble.

She took a moment to respond, letting out a deep sigh before giving her answer. “This secret will go to our graves with us,” said Kellina. “But I will never forgive my uncle . . . my faither . . . or whoever he was . . . for ruinin’ my life.”

“It’s no’ ruined, lass.” Nash reached out for her, but she backed away. “We are married now, Kellina, and I love ye.”

She looked at him in shock, shaking her head. “How can ye say ye love me now, Nash?” she asked, tears flowing down her cheeks. “My parents killed yers.”

“And mine, yers,” he said.

“But I am naught but a bastard, spawned by the devil, with a murderer for a mathair. Nay, Nash, we canna stay married. It isna right.” She rushed out the door, crying.

“Kellina, wait!” Nash started to go after her, but North held him back.

“Give her some time alone, Nash,” said North. “She has a lot to think about. Give her some space.”

Nash watched Kellina running to the stable, then saw her riding out of the camp atop a horse. His heart broke for her. The last thing he wanted was to leave her alone. She needed someone – she needed him now, more than anything. He would not abandon her in her dark hour.

“Nay, North. I canna give her space, because she is my wife now. I’ve got to go after her,” said Nash, ignoring his brother and heading out the door. “I will no’ let the woman I love go through this alone.”