A Highlander In Peril (Gunn Guardsman) (26 page)

More ire than he’d ever felt caused him to grip his sword. He badly wanted to thrust it and end the miscreant’s life. But there was something he needed to know before he did so.

“Who is the other?”

Jacob huffed at the pain of his wounds, his blood beginning to darken the snowy patch where he’d fallen. Sean wanted answers, and so he set his foot against the arrow embedded in his shoulder. He pressed it and caused the man to scream in pain.

“Who is the other?” he demanded once more.

“There is no other.” Jacob screamed again when Sean repeated the action on the arrow that stuck from his arm. The torment of the pain ripped through the man and the coward begged for mercy.

“Pray, don’t, please … please. I had no choice. I didn’t want to do it. He forced me.”

“She told me you said someone was coming to kill her. Who is he?” Sean applied pressure to his foot, sending racks of pain through his enemy at the wound on his abdomen. “Tell me now, and I’ll end your pain.”

Jacob’s eyes glazed. His life was fading, and Sean almost panicked because he needed the name before Jacob took the coward’s way out.

“Say it,” he said, gripping his bloody tunic. “Say his name.”

“My brother.”
Jacob closed his eyes, his breath ceased. He was now in the hands of the devil who Sean hoped would take retribution on his soul.

Who in the hell was the man’s brother? Sean wasn’t aware he had family, but verily he didn’t know the man that well. How could he have been so trusting of him? Sean couldn’t help his next action. He gripped the arrows and tore them from his foe’s body. When he’d retrieved all four, he handed them back to James.

“He is not worthy of keeping your arrows,” he said to Kenneth and James, “Have him thrown off the nearest cliff so the wolves can ravage him. I’ll be back.”

“Where are you going?” Grey shouted after him.

But Sean kept walking and didn’t offer an answer. It took a while for Sean to calm down. After walking outside the walls and in the adjacent fields, he kept going and ended up walking toward the village.

The lane along the way, covered with tall pines, kept the recent snows from reaching the road. He stepped between the ruts where cart wheels had deepened the ground.

The village should’ve bustled with activity, but he only saw a few women standing near a well. The men must still be hunting, for many of the villagers banded together to make do through the cold season.

Soon the shopkeepers would close for the day as the midday meal passed. He looked around disbelieving that such evil could exist in such a serene and peaceful place. Yet he knew evildoers pried on those they coveted.

And that thought sparked an image in his mind. Who besides Lord Lombard and Sir John coveted his wife? He knew of one man, but it didn’t make sense. Frances never mentioned a threat from him.

Sean got distracted when he turned and saw Alvin standing inside the doorway at the cottage at the end of the lane. He stepped toward him.

“I wish to reward you, lad, for aiding my lady.” The tall gangly lad stepped backward. “I’ve no means to harm you. What can I give you as a reward?”

“Nothing.”

“Aye, there’s got to be something.” Sean remembered what James’ said, of the talent the lad had. He pulled a dagger from his boot and held the handle toward Alvin.

“I cannot take it.”

“It’s yours. You can use it to whittle, for James told me of your skill. The dagger is a favorite of mine and is of value. I just replaced the leather on the handle, and it should keep for a while.”

The lad nodded and apprehensively took it from him.

Sean was about to walk away when he turned back. “Where I come from, we have a custom. When a lad reaches a certain age, they’re given a champion. From this day forward I will be yours.”

Alvin’s eyes widened.
“My lord? I am … honored.”

“I’d like
ye to come to the keep on the morrow. Will you?” He kept his distance from the anxious lad, knowing his aversion from those getting too close. James had related his run-in with him when Frances had gone to the miller’s.

Alvin agreed and he walked away. Sean wanted Alvin to reside at the Hume castle. The lad couldn’t be more than ten or eleven in age. He’d heard that he lived by himself and had no family. That would change on the morrow for they’d be his family.

When James told him about the lad, it reminded Sean of his own plight – when his mother and father died and he was alone. He’d been fortunate to have the Gunns take him as their own. Laird Michael treated him akin to a son and he’d never lacked attention or care. Sean meant to do that for Alvin. He’d give him a place of honor within the clan.

Sean wasn’t nearly as enraged when he returned to the keep. He knew somebody had to know who Jacob’s brother was. He reached the stables and did a thorough search of Jacob’s quarters. Nothing indicated who his family was. If he was a Hume, he had to be related to someone within the clan. Sean left the quarters and ran into Angus, the lad he’d taken as his own attendant.

“My lord, I just returned to give ye a report. Lombard and his steward are still traveling. I heard tell he went to England on a mission for the king and won’t return for more than a fortnight. Do ye want me to stay there and await their return?”

Sean had completely forgotten that he’d sent the lad to keep watch on Bantrum.
“Nay, nay. Thanks, Angus.”

With his distraction, he’d dismissed the lad, and then realized Angus knew all within the Hume clan. “Angus, halt. I’ve some questions for you.”

He set down the bucket of oats he’d hefted and stood erect. “Aye, my lord?”

“Tell me about the steward, Jacob. Who is his family? Do they live here within the walls?”

“Don’t know. He came nigh on five years ago. I remember it well, because I’d just entered training and he had the garrison leader ban me from the field. He said it was because I was too scrawny. I was bid to the stables ever since. There was no position for him then for my lady’s husband, Lord Robert, was the steward. My lord trusted no one to see to the accounts but he.”

“What did he do?” Sean fisted his hands, as he’d put two and two together. “How’d he become the steward?”

The lad continued to ramble, “He did nothing. I recall he helped the garrison leader, old Joseph, who died that harsh winter. When my lady’s husband died, he took the role of steward. Lord William wasn’t around much, for he’d been in Edinburgh.”

Sean’s lips firmed at his conjecture. Aye, Robert was removed from his position by being tossed from the barbican. Why would Jacob want the position as steward so badly? Did he covet coin, wealth, prestige?

None of that made sense, for Sean had a look at the accounts many times and nothing was out of order. He wanted access to Frances, and the only way to do that was to become ensconced in Lord William’s employ.

“If that’s all, I want to check your horse, my lord, and ensure he’s been taken care of.” Angus took the bucket of oats and disappeared inside the stables.

Sean left the lad, and entered the keep. After checking on Frances, who continued to rest, he went to the main hall where Mistress Ina was just setting supper on the table.

It had grown dark and a howling wind blew against the stones of the fortification. This night would be dangerous for the cold would take its toll on all within the clan.

Though he hadn’t eaten much in the past few days, Sean found himself with no appetite. He listened to his comrades, and then watched Mistress Ina stoke the great hearth at the end of the room. Watching her from afar, he tried to reason who Jacob’s brother was.

“Mistress?
A moment please. Does Lord Lombard have any brothers?” He knew the woman had the uncanny ability to find out gossip. She’d know.

“Nay, my lord.
He had two but they perished from plague when they were but lads.”

He dejected at that, certain that Lord Lombard was involved in this somehow. But that was one less suspect. “What about Sir John? Has he family close by?”

She clucked her tongue and shook her head. “Oh nay, don’t rightly know. For he’s new to these parts, and comes from the south. We don’t know much about him, never heard such as family. He’s English and we tend to stay away from them.”

No wonder he liked the old woman. Sean had someone in mind, but he’d have to look into the man’s dealings before he’d accuse him outright. “Who the hell is Jacob’s brother?”

Mistress Ina, who stepped away after his dismissal, turned back to him. “Jacob, the steward here?”

“Aye, the one and the same.”

“His family lives in Liddesdale, not too afar. He was raised by his eldest brother, but has a few others, they’re younger than he. He’s the second in line to his brother’s succession. I heard tell he killed a man a few years back and was acquitted of the charges. I deem his brother had the sheriff in his service.” She shook her head. “Nay, I got it wrong, mayhap it was the other brother, the one older than he, who killed the man and was acquitted.”

“Mistress, what is the family name?” Sean realized his supposition was astute but he wanted the confirmation.

“Armstrong.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX

The barbican was a lonely place and Frances wasn’t sure why she’d gone out to sit there. A fortnight had passed since Sean and Alvin saved her from the horrifying evildoer in the woods. She was fully recovered and was grateful she’d been spared what had been planned for her.

As she looked out on the snowy fields, its serenity should comfort her and the fact that she’d been spared such gruesome torture. Yet she couldn’t help thinking about Winifred, Sabine, Reina, and Alice.

As angry as she was, there was nothing to do but wait for justice. Still, Frances wasn’t sure Adam Armstrong’s death would appease her.

“There you are.”

She looked at the doorway and found her fetching husband standing there. His handsome face appeared sedate, and she couldn’t for the life of her understand how he could be so patient.

“Aye, I wanted some air.”

“Come inside. It’s too cold out here for you. You’ll catch a chill.”

“Why must we wait? Cannot we go and confront him? Sir John would not condemn us for taking revenge.”

Sean came closer and leaned against the wall. “But the king would. You know that I’d be on my horse right now chasing the banshee if not for Alexander.”

“Surely the king would understand.” Frances realized how much Sean wanted to take to his horse and ride out. “He’s hiding now and likely you’ll never find him.”

He touched her shoulder, giving her an affectionate squeeze. “There’s always a way to rummage out a snake. Besides, I didn’t want to leave until I knew you were well. You scared me, Frances. I’ve come to care …”

She couldn’t help smiling. “Are you saying you love me?” When he didn’t answer right away, she clasped his hand. “I shall say it first. I love you, Sean Gunn.”

He chuckled and leaned close. “Aye? Come inside and I’ll show you how much I revere you.”

Frances shot to her feet. In the past week, how she wished he would give in and realize she was well enough to join him in bed. Actually, for him to join her in bed for she’d offered time and again. She’d gone unclothed and not once did he try anything. She adored him for his concern though.

Hastily, she made her way to their chamber. Without saying a word, she began removing her heavy cloak and garments. Sean went to the hearth and began adding wood and peat to it, and then stoked it until the flames were bright.

The warmth began to penetrate the chamber but she still had smattering of goose bumps on her skin. She shook, and wasn’t sure if it was the chilly air or the way his dark passionate eyes pierced her from across the chamber.

“You look bonny this day, aye, and have a sparkle in your eyes.” Sean traversed the chamber and as he did so, he removed his tunic and upper tartan. His chest bared and his flesh chilled with goose bumps too. He looked invincible and she couldn’t believe he was hers.

“Do I?” She teased. Frances tugged at his waist and he helped her to remove the leather belt holding his tartan on his hips. She couldn’t tear her eyes away for he stood before her naked as the day he was born. A girlish giggle escaped her for she’d never get used to seeing a man made so well unclothed in front of her.

“Touch me, lass, I need to feel you …”

Frances lightly grazed her fingers over his chest and abdomen until she reached his midsection and then continued downward. His erection felt hard and heated, and wondrously wicked. Her eyes widened when he gently thrust in her palm.

Sean pulled her close, their bodies touching, and Frances moaned at the pleasure of it. There were so many emotions swarming her, being held by him: security, desire, love. He did love her even though he wouldn’t admit it. And she grinned at the thought that a hardened warrior might likely never submit or admit such feelings. None of that mattered to her, for he belonged to her.

With his hand under her chin, he tilted her head back, and his lips hovered over hers. His eyes peered into hers and she imagined the world ceased.

“Do you know how bonny you are?”

His mouth touched hers gently at first, and then he added his hot tongue to the mix and Frances’s knees nearly collapsed from the pleasure of it. She returned his kiss, twirling her tongue with his, hoping that he knew how much she loved him.

Sean scooped her in his arms and set her on the bed. He continued to kiss her and slid his palm over her body. She grew heated by his touch and no longer had a care for the cold in the chamber.

He pressed her onto her back, and then took her thighs in his hands. Frances watched as he knelt back and set her legs against his thighs. She waited anxiously for him to enter her, and as much as she wanted him to rush, she hoped he’d go leisurely because she wanted to feel every blissful movement, every delightful second.

Sean teased her by setting his tip near her entrance and he shimmied closer, but still she had to wait for the reward. She drew in an exasperated breath and tried to thrust her hips toward him.

“Impatient, aye?” he asked with a hint of teasing in his tone.

“Will you take me? I cannot wait.” No words were ever truer. Frances pulled at his legs hoping he’d get on with it. “I shall not be content until we are one.”

Sean laughed and leaned forward. “I love this part of you,” he said, and set his lips on the flesh of her abdomen.

The sensual way his mouth moved over her skin made her huff with longing. He knew she wouldn’t wait another second when she writhed beneath him.

Sean cupped her thighs with his hands and yanked her toward him. He thrust into her and lifted her bottom to give
himself better access. Frances yelled out at the marvelous sensation of him filling her. His heated erection felt so wonderful that she tossed her head and closed her eyes, fully concentrating on his every movement.

He began thrusting slowly, pushing forward until he was completely within her, and then he retreated as nerve rackingly deliberate. She dug her heels into the bedding and lifted her body to meet his. They joined again and again, and Frances yielded to the sensational affects beginning to swarm her.

Sean took hold of his erection and guided it toward her vagina, but he didn’t enter her and slid it against her clitoris. She nearly died from the erotic way he held it against her and it caused her to want to throw herself into the chaotic climax. He continued to tease her, by not entering her, and tormented her with the longing of it.

“I want you inside me. Hard, I want you hard.” She drew in a gasp when he jabbed into her and kept up the frenzied clash. Frances gave in to her climax and let go of all she was.

He kept moving forward and thrust his hips until he couldn’t take anymore and groaned his release. She kept her body tilted and another round of euphoric waves of pleasure came over her.

Frances wanted to weep at the beauty they’d shared, but resisted. She kept stroking the skin of his arms and legs, and wherever she could reach.

Neither spoke for some time. Frances was content to lie in his arms and listen to his breathing. She was no longer chilled, but even so, Sean pulled a warm covering over them. He said nothing, but watched her.

“What are you thinking? Tell me.” Frances lay on her side watching him in return.

“I don’t want to leave you.”

She sighed, stroking his arm to calm him. “I don’t want you to leave. What if something happens to you?”

Sean laughed. “Do you deem that priss-garbed clootie could hurt me?”

She couldn’t help laughing either when he put it like that. “But he’s desperate now and will be unpredictable. You’ll be in peril.”

He flashed a grin at her. “The only peril I’m in is losing my heart, love. But I’ve already lost it, so there’s no need to worry.”

Frances leaned over him, and placed a gentle kiss on his lips. “I will worry for you. Will your friends be going with you?”

“Aye, they want to see this through. I received word from King Alexander this day. A missive arrived and Armstrong is indeed at his castle in Edinburgh.”

She tried to soothe him, for he’d grown tense, and his muscles tightened. “Will he be there when you arrive?”

“I sure as hell hope so. I said nothing to Alexander about his deeds, but asked that he detain him. So I expect he should be in residence.”

“What do you plan to do?” Frances wished he’d take her with him, but he’d told her nay, and that he wanted her to stay home where it was safe. She knew as long as Armstrong was alive she’d be in danger.

“I will confront him in front of the king and let the king dictate his punishment.”

She was skeptical. “What if the king’s punishment is not what you deem sufficient? What if the king doesn’t believe you?”

“He will. I’m sure Armstrong’s head will be put upon a pike, and the herald and bards will get the message out to any other banshees that we will not allow such deeds be done to our women.” To affirm his statement, Sean pulled her next to him and set an arm over her stomach, holding her closely.

It was the most he’d ever said to her in one breath. Frances’ lips firmed, and she hoped all that he alleged happened. But she wouldn’t know until he returned.

She closed her eyes and tried not to think about the confrontation. When she opened them again, it was morning and Sean was gone. Frances was hesitant to move out of the bed, but was anxious to know if he’d left. Then she saw the piece of parchment lying on his pillow.

‘Frances, worry not. When I return we can begin life anew with our hearts eased. Yours, Sean.’

She held the parchment to her chest and wished with all her heart his words rang true.

* * *

Edinburgh was as frigid as the outer lying areas. A cold wind blew against them as they rode through the gates. Sean was glad they’d arrived, and he couldn’t help fingering his sword for soon he’d be able to use it.

The gatekeeper nodded when he spoke his name and allowed them entrance. Nary a soul was outside the keep or other buildings along the path to the castle. It was too cold a day to be outdoors. He dismounted as did the rest of the Gunns. They all insisted on riding with him and wanted retribution as much as he did.

Sean walked beside Grey, and they entered the great hall where many entertained the young queen. He greeted her as did the rest of his party.

“Has Frances come with you?” the small dainty queen asked.

“Nay, my lady, she has not. She says to say hello and bid you good health.”

“Pray convey the same to her when you return home. Alexander is in his private chambers and awaits you. You know where they are.”

Sean looked around the great hall, searching for the bedeviled Armstrong, but he did not see him. He caught the end of her speech and nodded.
“My thanks, Queen Joan.”

He, Grey, Kenneth, James, Colm, and Duff, bowed to her, and strode toward the private solar of the king. There, he knocked and waited to be bid entrance. They waited a few minutes and finally were shown in by the chamberlain, who promptly left.

“Grey, it’s been too long. How are …” the king ceased his welcome when he noted the stern looks on their faces. “Sean, you’ve returned. I received your missive, and wondered at it. Why did you wish Armstrong detained?”

“Sire.
It is not good tidings I bring. Your follower is a murderous villain.”

The chamberlain returned and set a parchment in front of Alexander. “I’ve readied the missive, Your Grace.”

The king rose, after putting his seal on the document and looked bewildered. He led them to stand by the hearth. “You speak of the missing lassies?”

“Aye, I do. Lord Lombard’s daughter was killed by him. He abducted and killed one of our maids, Sabine, and then we found my daughter’s nurse killed, there’s another missing lady, Lord Ashford’s daughter, and Frances was abducted.”

“The hell you say. Tell me all.” The king waved off his chamberlain who retreated from the chamber, and he shifted his stance. “Was Lady Frances harmed?”

“She was. He poisoned her, but we were able to rescue her in time. He had a partner, his brother, who took the women and prepared them in the woods where he’d murder them.”

Alexander’s scowl turned fierce. “I cannot believe any of my followers would commit such a heinous crime.”

“I speak the truth, Sire. His own brother gave him up. I want Armstrong brought before you so he can speak of his ill-deeds.”

Alexander shook his head. “I find this hard to believe, Sean. Och if you say he committed these heinous acts then I shall believe you. I will have him brought before us immediately and questioned. Armstrong, that villainous snake!”

Sean waited with his friends by the hearth as Alexander went to retrieve his chamberlain. The man was instructed to find Armstrong and have him brought to his chambers. They heard the king’s shouting from his solar.

They waited for a good amount of time before Sean’s impatience wore on him. He decided to find the man himself. As he walked around the great hall, he didn’t see him within. He asked several lords standing about, but none had seen him either.

Sean returned to the king’s solar and found the chamberlain there. His breath pitched from his exerted search.