Page 45 of The Seer

As tedious as the task of archer was, Alasdair had learned to enjoy it. Admittedly, the most enjoyable part of his new work, was becoming a better archer. In fact, he now preferred target practice to sword play.

“Last meal has been announced. Ye best go,” Nevin said walking toward him.

Alasdair yawned and stretched. “I hope to get sleep more than I wish for food.”

Nevin nodded. “Tis the way with new bairns. Demand what they need despite the time of day.”

“Or night,” Alasdair added shaking his head.

Hurrying through the house, he rushed up the stairs to the chamber he shared with Dallis. Knowing better than to call out her name, he entered the room quietly.

His wife sat on a chair by the window rocking back and forth with their son in her arms. Her lips curved at seeing him.

The child slept soundly, his tiny fist clenching a strand of Dallis’ hair.

“Allow the nursemaid to watch over him,” Alasdair said. “Come to last meal with me.”

Gingerly, she stood and leaned over slowly to place the slumbering child into a cradle, her hand lingering over the baby’s chest for a moment.

It was her custom to pray protection over him and Alasdair found it both curious and heart-warming.

The nursemaid entered and motioned for them to come to the hallway. “Laird requests that ye both attend last meal.”

“We were just heading down,” Dallis said turning to look toward the cradle. “He should remain asleep for a while. I am hoping most of the night.”

Candlelight and fire in the hearths cast shadows that seemed to dance against the walls and floors. People sat on both sides of three long tables discussing the events of the day.

Servants entered with trays laden with meats, breads and whatever other food had been prepared in the kitchens that day.

Alasdair guided Dallis to the high board where they sat on the left side of the laird next to Lady Sinclair. On the Sinclair’s right were Guiles and Fiona.

The Sinclair turned to him and nodded. “I am glad to have ye both join us in this meal. Since my grandson came to be, it is a rare sight.”

Dallis chuckled. “Do ye miss me Da?”

The meal was delicious and despite the exhaustion of not enough sleep and work, Alasdair found himself enjoying the time with his new family.

“Ye should sleep in another chamber tonight. Get some rest,” Dallis whispered in his ear.

“Only if ye come with me.”

Lady Sinclair turned to them a soft smile on her lips. “I will ensure William is looked after tonight and allow ye both to rest.”

“He has to feed mother,” Dallis said with a sigh.

“Feed him and go with Alasdair to one of the guest chambers. If he requires another feeding, I will instruct the nursemaid to come for ye.”

It was like the night of their wedding. Both undressed quickly and climbed into bed.

Alasdair brought his wife against him and kissed her until both were breathless.

“Tell me what ye want,” Alasdair asked yawning despite his arousal.

Dallis laughed. “Make love to me. Quickly else one of us falls asleep.”