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“But, what about my blindness? I cannot run a keep or manage his household. I bring no wealth to his coffers, nothing but kinship to a man he hates.”
“Then allow Elspeth to run the keep, she does it well enough. And you are blind from an accident, not from birth. There is no cause to worry about your child. Has the laird said he is in need of funds?”
“No, he has not.”
“He will not hold you accountable for your brother’s crimes. That was settled months ago.”
“I suppose that is so, but—”
“If he still hesitates then you must make it your business to show him the error of his ways, an’ you can start by telling him all about this little bairn you are carryin’.”
“But what about everyone else? Those who live here, his clan…?”
“They will want what he wants, you mark my words.”
“But, Elspeth…”
“Ah, well, that woman may be a tyrant in her kitchen an’ it’s true she and I do not see eye to eye on a lot, but I know she loves the bones of you. There will be no problem there, I’m sure of it.”
Roselyn dried her eyes and attempted a smile. “Do you really think…? I mean… could it happen?”
“I have known stranger things come to pass. After all, half a year ago who would ha’ thought any of us might end up here?”
Roselyn indulged herself with one last sniffle, then tilted her chin up. “You are quite right. We are here and… itcouldhappen. I shall make it so.”
* * *
“My lord, I have something I must discuss with you.” Roslyn stationed herself at the foot of the great bed she shared with Blair. She wore only her heavy nightdress and her hair hung loose and freshly brushed about her shoulders, just as he preferred it. She concentrated on controlling her agitation. It would not do to appear too nervous; she must be confident, convincing, every inch the suitable Highland chatelaine.
“Aye? Well, I too have a matter which requires your attention. Come to bed, lass.”
“I… I should prefer to remain here, just for the moment. Sir.”
“Roselyn? Is something amiss?” He sounded concerned now, and just a little bewildered.
“No, not amiss, exactly. It is just…”
“You are unwell? You do appear a tad pale, now I come to think of it.”
“I am quite well, thank you. But… my lord, I believe I must ask you to reconsider your objections to marrying me.” She halted, just long enough to hear the mattress creak as he moved. “No, please, remain where you are and listen to me. You owe me that…” Her voice was cracking, but she was determined not to weep. That would do no good at all; indeed, it would only serve to demonstrate that she was weak and emotional, not qualities revered in a sturdy Highland lady fit to be by his side and lead the people of Duncleit.
“Very well. Please, continue.”
He sounded wary now and her heart sank. This was not proceeding as she had hoped. Still, best to get the hardest part done with first.
“I am with child, my lord.”
No answer.
“Did you hear me?”
“I did. Is there more or are you done?”
More? What more need there be?Still, it was clear to her that he required to be convinced so she ploughed on. “I recall that you have entertained reservations regarding my suitability, but I know that I could be a good wife for you, and a good mistress for Duncleit. I have some skills in the arts of cooking—herbs and flavouring, that sort of thing. I can supervise the management of the household, and with Betsy to assist, and Elspeth, of course…”
“I expect Elspeth can manage without supervision. Betsy too, for that matter since she strikes me as amply capable. In any case, would you not be fully employed in the nursery? Or in my bed?”
“I did not mean to imply… What?”
