AllFreeNovel
Share Us
CHAPTERFIFTEEN
Nora had met the friendliest girl she had ever met, and because they were now a family, she wanted to make sure they liked each other.
True, the entiresituation was strange but itdid not hinder her. After all, Jonan did not confine her like her father did. He gave her control of the keep and the freedom to do whatever she wanted, and made every effort to never miss a meal when she cooked. So Nora took a quick bath and changed into a simple dress.
She was nervous as she approached his door even though Mae was with her.
“Milady,” a voice came from the stairway.
“Eliza, a good morning to you,” Nora replied.
“Laird McKay rode out early this mornin’. He instructed that I tell ye nae to wait for him until the evenin’,” the maid said.
Nora was disappointed by the news. She had hoped to see his delight at the breakfast she had planned for him.
She sighed and headed toward the kitchen whereRayuk was waiting for her at the bottom of the stairs.
“Good mornin’, Lady McKay,” he bowed.
“Good morning, Rayuk. Will you join Leah and me for breakfast?” she asked him.
“I would be honored, milady,” he beamed.
“Amelia!” Leah squealed. The little girl opened her arms wide as she ran towards Nora.
“Nae, Lady Leah!” A maid chased after her.
Nora opened her arms and hugged Leah tightly.
“How was your night? Did you have good dreams?”
Leah shook her head before she suddenly wiggled out of Nora’s grasp.
What is wrong? Nora was overcome with worry for the girl. “What happened, Leah?”
“It was cold last night,” she said. “I like the warmer nights better.
“I agree,” Nora nodded, offering her hand. Together, the pair walked to the kitchen.
“Perhaps you could get a thick blanket. It could keep you warm.” She looked down at Leah, who seemed to be thinking. “I’m about to make a meal. Would you like to help?”
“Aye, if I may,” her eyes shone with eagerness.
Nora had chosen a simple meal that would do the food in the store justice. Even Leah was permitted to rinse the vegetables and assist in the kitchen.
They served the vegetables with grains andNora ensured that everyone who depended on the castle was properly fed. The servants who delivered food to the soldiers returned to the barracks with their meals, while the remainder was divided among the staff.
“What do you think of the meal?” Nora asked one of the scullery maids. She hadn’t been a part of the cooking and wouldn’t be biased. “I want you to speak frankly.”
The maid tasted the meal under the watchful eye of all present and all that had aided in its preparation.
“Hmm,” the maid hummed as she put a scoop in her mouth. “I swear by God, milady, it is delicious.”
“Would you have a taste?” she asked another maid.
Eagerly, the maid nodded, her face lighting up as she swallowed.
“Och, milady, these are the tastiest veggies I have eaten ever!” she answered as though she had been waiting eagerly for a way to praise the meal. “Will you tell me why it smells and tastes so good?”
