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CHAPTERTHIRTY
“But Lord Bennett instructed that I come with you to—” the maid stuttered.
"Look here, I—I just need some time to myself. You can stay outside so you don't get in trouble with your master," she said in a softer tone.
"Thank you, my lady," the maid said as she exited the room.
Bennett's mother's pearl necklace was draped around her neck. It complemented the green dress she was supposed to wear that day, but she saw no beauty in it.
How I long for the nights at the loch with Jonan! How I miss Amelia and Leah...
Nora rubbed her arms as the chill of regret and loneliness overwhelmed her when her Nora's attention was drawn once more to the sound of the door slamming against the wall.
"Lord Bennett requests your presence right now," said the larger of the two guards who barged into the room.
Nora was aware of her options:defy them and be punished by Bennett, or obey them and betray herself.
The man led her toward the sounds of merriment.
“Ah. She blesses us with her presence," Bennett said to his guests as he approached her.
He wore a blood-red coat, dark breeches, and tall boots. His sword was slung across his torso, and he looked likea warrior rather than a lord.
“Give me your hand,” Bennett demanded. His guests were unable to hear his dark words, but she had no choice except to comply.
"Everyone is staring at you because you are beautiful." We look good standing next to one another, don’t you think?”
She remained silent.
“I am speaking to you,” he snapped, grabbing her arm.
“I do not have to answer you,” she lifted her chin.
He glared at her but she smiled. "Your guests are staring at us. Are you certain this is what you want?” she asked sarcastically.
"You areright," Bennett said, lowering her arm.
He walked toward the table andpoured himself a glass of wine.
“I am certain that some of you might know Lady Nora, daughter to the infamous Lord Turner,” he announced, drawing everyone’s attention to her.
"While the lady is certainly beautiful... Judging by the look on her face, I am certain we can all tell that she is not feeling very well,” he continued.
What is he doing?
"As my more honored guest, I must excuse myself from this lovely gathering to tend to her," he said modestly.
Bennett turned to exitto applause from the audience.
"Please continue without me. I shall be back before you have drained all the bottles of wine,” he promised the crowd before he came to Nora’s side. "Let's go."
Nora turned to face the guests. They were all smiling, enjoying Lord Bennett's gracious gesture.
None of them will help me.
“Think of Amelia. We both know your father cares not and that your Highlander despises you. You can either obey or be stubborn," he whispered.
They started walking up the stairs, his hand on the small of her back.
