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As Keern rode toward the gates of his home, with Shena by his side, he heard the horn sound and whoops from the guards. His name sounded on their lips, along with shouts and hurrahs.
It was good to be home.
As the gates opened and he rode through, people greeted him.
“Keern, you’ve finally arrived.”
“Jacob.”
As wonderful as it was to see his cousin again, sadness filled him at the memory of his last homecoming and being met by Will.
He dismounted his horse and helped Shena dismount hers, handing the reins to eager hands. He strode toward Jacob and dragged him into a bear hug, pounding his back for good measure.
“Jordan is here. He wanted to meet this new wife you wrote us about.”
Jacob glanced at Shena and smiled. Keern took her hand and led her toward the house, smiling inside at his cousin’s obvious interest in the newest member of their family. Keern hadn’t missed the fact that Jacob’s gaze had briefly settled on Shena’s rounded belly.
“Brother, here you are.” At Jordan’s voice, Keern spun around.
Jordan threw his arms around Keern. “So, my big brother returns, and with a wife in tow.” He smiled at Shena. “And a little one on the way, I see.”
Keern patted Shena affectionately on the belly. “Yes. I had a long journey to find this woman. Ironic, given she was our closest neighbor.”
Shena clung to Keern’s hand, uncertain how his family would accept her.
“Neighbor?” Jacob stared at her, his brow furrowed.
“Hello.” Shena spoke for the first time. “My name is Shena.”
“Shena? As in Shena Wakefield?”
Keern slid his arm around her shoulder, tucking her against his side. “But now Shena Herrington,” he responded.
“Keern,” Jordan said, “her father killed Will. How can you --?”
“She is not her father. She is not responsible for the sins of her father.”
“Of course, but --”
“No buts. She is my wife and a member of this family now.”
Tears welled in Shena’s eyes. Keern’s heart constricted at the sight.
“Keern, I’m sorry. I don’t want to cause strife between you and your family.” Shena’s quiet words set his protective urges on high.
He drew her closer. “You’re my wife and I love you. You will always come first.”
“What’s going on here?”
Jenna, Will’s widow, stood staring at the men. Jordan’s wife, Kristinna, and Jacob’s wife, Helena, stood beside her.
Keern gave each of the women a hug.
“I introduced my new wife, Shena, to Jacob and Jordan.”
“And why have they decided to upset such a lovely young woman?” Jenna asked. Her gaze crossed each man in turn.
“She is a Wakefield.” Jacob pointed out.
