Seducing the Highlander (5 page)

“You should feel gratified that I am finally taking your advice and becoming less attached to my things. What was it you once said? Things cannot bring you happiness—only people.”

He had actually said clothes could not bring him happiness, only a woman. He had been teasing her when he turned down her offer to make him a new leine and kilt. The idea of standing around like a female while she measured, poked, and prodded him was abhorrent, and he wanted to make sure that she never made the offer again. But for her to twist the meaning and use that remark meant they were on the verge of going too far. They had argued before, but never like this. He just knew he was not happy at the idea of her leaving. He felt as if his life had been turned upside down last night, and their fighting was making it worse.

Craig gathered his composure and in a resigned yet gentle tone said, “The people you love and who love you are here. There is no need for you to leave. You need not be embarrassed.”

Embarrassed?
Meriel practically screamed in her head. He thought she was leaving because of embarrassment over their kiss? She had thought he felt something for her but was just unwilling to act on it. Now she was beginning to wonder if she had read him completely wrong. No man with any morsel of feelings for her could be so clueless.

Meriel knew he was waiting for her to respond, believing that he was making her rethink her decision to go. If anything, his last argument just made it absolutely clear that she not only had to leave, but immediately.

“I love my family, Craig,” she began calmly, removing any bitter anger from her tone. “But if I need to kiss someone to feel excitement, then that is a sign I should seek new experiences and interact with different people. It is time I break certain habits and build new ones. Don’t you ever need a change?”

He had. But not in recent memory. For the past year, he had felt more settled and relaxed than ever, which was surprising because he had moved away from McTiernay Castle, the only home he had ever known. His life was finally becoming what he always wanted. He was commander of a large and powerful army, his brother was happy . . . life was good. He wanted no changes in it, and that Meriel did, rankled.

After she left his cabin that morning, he had mentally replayed their conversation and her reaction repeatedly, and each time his conclusion remained unchanged. It was absurd to allow a single kiss to disrupt things between them when their situation was almost ideal. Meriel’s claim that she felt the same as he did had provided a measure of relief but did not completely quash his fears that their friendship might have been irrevocably altered. But how were they to resume their friendship and continue as before, if she left?

“Meriel, if you really want to go visit my brothers, I will take you. Merry is gentle, but you will still need help with her if you are ever going to make it.”

“I didn’t ask for your assistance and I don’t want it,” she said. Her hazel eyes, normally warm and inviting, now regarded him coolly.

Craig shook off the inclination to shiver. “Don’t be a fool,” he chastised softly. “You know you need help when riding.”

Meriel arched a brow, daring to look affronted by his assertion, despite its accuracy. “Maybe—but not yours.”

“And just who the bloody hell is going to put up with you?” he barked, raising his voice once again.

Meriel waved her hand to her side. “Hamish is quite looking forward to the chance. Aren’t you, Hamish?” she asked, flashing him one of her most irresistible smiles.

Hamish blinked. “I . . . uh . . . aye,” he answered, unable to disagree with her. He shifted his gaze to his horse and patted the thick mane. It was probably the first time he had ever wanted to put distance between him and an unattached beautiful woman, but how else was he to respond? He avoided looking at Craig. He did not want to get pulled into this argument, but a part of him was somewhat shocked by Meriel’s feisty demeanor. Normally she was so calm and demure that her personality bordered on dull.

Craig’s eyes bounced between Hamish and Meriel. He considered the man a good friend, but Hamish was also notorious when it came to women—almost as bad as his younger brother Conan. And if Meriel had been anyone else, Craig might have felt the earnest pangs of jealousy. But she was not Hamish’s type, and, moreover, she was Laird Schellden’s daughter. Unless Hamish wanted to get married and be locked to the Schellden clan forever, Meriel could be with no safer guide.

“Well then, now that I know that you won’t have to depend on the gruff nature of my eldest brother for support”—Craig grimaced at Conor—“I have no objection.”

“Why, thank you for your permission. And here I thought I needed only my father’s.”

Craig shot her a twisted smile. “You’ll be back in less than a fortnight.”

“You think?”

“I think you will be bored within hours of your arrival. This time, you will not have me or Raelynd to entertain you.”

Meriel refused to allow the fear his words gave her register on her face. Instead, she broke into a disarming smile and said, “I will miss you too.” Then she gave a hard yank on the reins to get Merry to turn around. To her relief, after the third tug the horse finally obeyed and headed out the gate.

Craig was right. Based on her last experience away from Caireoch, life at McTiernay Castle would be incredibly dull, and the realization almost made her change her mind. But Craig’s smug face kept her firmly on her mount. She did not know how difficult it would be, but she would find a way to be gone at least three weeks.

Craig swallowed as he watched her practically strangle Merry. Despite his attempt at teaching her, the woman’s riding skills had not improved even a little bit. “Take care of her, Hamish,” he said wistfully.

“I will, so don’t worry about
your friend
. You know you can trust me.”

The rich baritone voice carried too much amusement for Craig’s comfort. He pivoted to look at Hamish to see if he was sincere or if he was mocking him, but it was too late. Hamish was already urging his mount forward to catch up with Meriel and help get her through the gatehouse and the village without mishap.

“Are you sure you do not care for my sister?”

Craig jumped. He had not seen Raelynd approach his side. “I’m positive!” he growled and stomped toward the kitchens. He was going directly to the buttery and get himself a drink. A large one.

Aye, he cared for Meriel. And why shouldn’t he? They were friends. Best friends. She needed his companionship, his advice, and most of all his support. It would not be possible for her to stay away for very long.

This was her home. This was his home. And a single kiss was not going to change that.

Meriel glanced sideways to confirm it was Laurel who was coming to join her by the fire. The day’s journey had been exactly what Meriel had expected. Long and arduous. Merry had been inclined to follow the group and had not needed much direction or encouragement, to Meriel’s relief. Most of her time had been spent trying to stay upon the horse.

Laurel sat down on the ground across from Meriel and stretched out her hands to warm them by the fire. The weather had been comfortable during the day, but both were used to being inside after the sun went down and found the night somewhat chilly. Luckily Conor and Hamish had wanted a cooked meal; otherwise it might have been difficult getting them to agree to build a fire.

Laurel picked up a stick and poked the logs to rekindle the flames, as if she was searching for the right way to start the conversation. “Conor and Hamish are out taking care of the horses. I doubt they will return until they think we are asleep. Nothing frightens a man more than two women talking.”

Meriel stifled a small sigh. She wanted to talk through her problems, but not with just anyone. She trusted Laurel, but Meriel was not interested in listening to any well-meaning advice—even if she could use some.

Laurel tossed the burnt stick aside. “You look tired. I know that you are not used to riding, let alone being on horseback for most of the day.”

Meriel shrugged her shoulders. “At least I knew what to expect this time. And Hamish helped some.” He had actually aided her quite a lot, and surprisingly, he had done it without any condescension. “I’m not sure what to think about him.” She paused and then looked at Laurel. “I’m beginning to think he flirts out of habit, not true interest. I wonder if the rumors of his exploits are simply that—rumors.”

A bemused smile curved Laurel’s mouth. “Not many women can recognize Hamish for what he truly is. I am glad you agreed to come.”

Meriel’s eyes momentarily widened at the memory. “Laird McTiernay did not seem so enthusiastic about the idea.”

“Oh, Conor is just afraid that I’ll put you back in charge of the castle.”

Meriel sat up straight, her hazel eyes boring into Laurel. “You wouldn’t.” She exhaled in a panic. That idea had never occurred to her.

“No, I most certainly would not,” Laurel quickly agreed and leaned back on her hands so that she could stretch out her legs. “I know some of the McTiernay staff can be a little aggravating—”

“A little?” Meriel quipped, remembering how caustic their cook, Fiona, could be—and she was nice compared to the steward.

“—but I would not exchange them for anyone else. However, I’ll make sure everyone will know that you are a guest and to treat you as such. Besides, I owe you because I participated in what happened last night.”

Meriel picked up a smooth rock that was next to her and twirled it in her fingers. She was not angry with Laurel. Nor was she angry with her sister. In a way, what happened was inevitable. “It would have happened even if you weren’t there. Raelynd is merciless.”

“Maybe, but on this I think she might leave you and Craig alone now. I’m pretty sure you and Craig convinced her that you two are just friends.”

“But we didn’t convince you, did we?”

Pressing her lips together, Laurel studied Meriel and thought about the question. Visiting the Schelldens for the past week, she had discerned a change in Craig. He seemed more comfortable with himself. Beyond being a warrior and entertainer, he sometimes allowed people to see his serious and thoughtful side. Maybe it was because he no longer felt like he had to protect his twin brother, but Laurel suspected his friendship with Meriel was a more likely reason behind the change.

Laurel released her gaze and turned to stare at the fire. “I think that you and Craig could be perfect for each other. That’s why I helped Raelynd orchestrate her little game, but if I could do it all over again, I would not.”

Meriel’s gold-and-green eyes widened in shock. “Why not?”

“Two people can be perfect for each other, even love each other, but unless
they
want their relationship to be more, mean more, it will not work.”

Meriel waited for Laurel to ask if she wanted her and Craig’s relationship to grow into something more, but the question never came. Instead, Laurel said, “Craig is a McTiernay, Meriel. That means he is incredibly stubborn and full of pride. He is also steadfast in his beliefs and as a result, when he makes up his mind, no one—not even Conor or his own twin brother, Crevan—can change it.”

Meriel cocked her head slightly in confusion. “I am very familiar with the mulish side of Craig’s personality.”

It was a trait they recognized in each other. Anytime she and Craig had diverging opinions, they would simply agree to disagree, knowing that neither would be able to persuade, cajole, entice, or even bribe the other to their point of view. This mutual acceptance, not having to pretend to be of the same mind on a topic in order to maintain harmony, was a revelation to them both. But on the subject of their relationship, that philosophy of agreeing to disagree would no longer work. Either she learned to ignore her feelings for Craig, or he learned to pay attention to his feelings for her.

“So you understand that the more you push Craig into doing something—even something that, deep down, he wants—”

“—the more he resists,” Meriel finished. “And on this subject—the one of he and I becoming anything more than friends—he is not likely to change his mind. The man fears being in love, despite seeing the happiness it has given his elder brothers.”

“Ah, love. Powerful word.” Laurel paused for a long while. “And are you in love?”

Meriel looked up, tears forming. “I honestly don’t know. I think I may love him and that he might love me, but he refuses to talk about it. And if I cannot talk to my best friend about our feelings for each other, what
can
I talk to him about? Suddenly I do not know how to act around him. I cannot pretend I don’t feel anything, and if I had stayed at Caireoch, avoiding him would have been impossible. So in a way, I am running away, though I am also worried that I was just as much of a fool to leave. What am I going to do all day? Walk and think?” Meriel tossed the rock into the fire and watched it turn red. “Craig was right. I don’t tolerate boredom well.”

“Well, if it isn’t too much of an imposition, you could help me, and that would occupy your time for say . . . at least a fortnight.”

Meriel frowned in acknowledgment that everyone had heard Craig’s challenge. Remembering the long list of disasters resulting from the last time she had “helped” Laurel, Meriel’s instinct was to decline the offer. Biting her bottom lip, she asked, “With what? I’m not like my sister, who knows everything about running a castle.”

Laurel gave a small shake of her head. “I need your help with what
you
know better than most anyone. The gowns you made for me reminded me of how few can compare with your skill with a needle. When Conor’s brother Cole moved north, he took with him his loyal soldiers and their wives, who included a dear friend and a most valued seamstress. Ever since, my daughters have been forced to wear what I can create. So, would you consider making them some things? I have plenty of material.”

“For your children?” Meriel asked, clearly interested in the idea but also wary of offending someone. “But there must be others who can sew. . . .”

“We have some weavers and a few seamstresses, though none with your skill. Regardless, they will soon be busy preparing for winter and supporting the clan. You will not be interfering with anyone’s work, and I suspect when you are done that several others will ask you to lend your skill—but only if you are willing. I am positive your days could be as full as you desire.”

“Others? Can one of them be Hamish?” Meriel teased. “The man desperately needs a new leine.” She was smiling. She would not go so far as to say that she was happy, but for the first time since she left Craig’s cottage, she was looking forward to what the next day might bring.

Laurel laughed. “Many of the men need new clothes, but I doubt they would appreciate your ability with a needle. And give Hamish a chance. Like Craig, very few get to know who he really is.”

“You mean very few take the effort.”

“I
mean
that you and he might be good for each other. He could use a female friend. I’m not sure that he’s ever had one.”

“Great.” Meriel sighed. “Just want I always wanted to be. The
friend
.”

 

 

Hamish halted both their horses at the grassy portion of the shoreline and hopped off his mount. Meriel raised her hand to shield her eyes from the late morning light to view McTiernay Castle. It lay just beyond the loch and over the hills, which she knew were much steeper than they looked. There was not a cloud in the sky and the weather was warm without being oppressive.

Walking over to Meriel’s side, Hamish reached up, clasped her small waist in his hands, and helped her down. “I’m thinking we should rest here and let the horses graze for a little bit.”

“How long?” Meriel asked, clearly puzzled as to why they would stop when they were so close to their destination.

“Umm, for just about the length of time it will take for the craziness to die down from Laurel and Conor’s return. Both will be pummeled with hugs from their children, endless questions from their staff, and those who feel they have important news that needs to be immediately imparted. Trust me. You want to enjoy this tranquility before entering that mess.”

Meriel inhaled, and with a slight smile gave a small shake of her head. “Last time I was at this very spot, the day was far from peaceful.”

Hamish pulled out a piece of dried meat and offered her a piece. She shook her head no. Chewing on the long, thin strip, he mumbled, “I remember.”

Meriel stared at him incredulously. “Really? I find that hard to believe.”

“Well, it is not too often that I get the opportunity to help save a beautiful woman,” he answered. It was a true statement, but what he really remembered was Crevan’s eyes boring into him when he had passed through the gates carrying Meriel’s wounded sister, Raelynd. The man’s jealousy had been practically tangible. After that, Hamish had purposely avoided both Raelynd and her sister. He had even dodged them at the Schelldens’ while visiting Craig and his brother. He had been successful right up until the end. Hamish once again reminded himself of the reluctant promise he had made to Craig to look after Meriel in his absence.

Hamish glanced to his left and for a long moment studied the woman Craig held in such high regard. After traveling for two days, dirt clung to her skin; several loose, wispy strands escaped from her braided hair; and the cuffs and hem of her light blue bliaut were now brown with caked mud. And still, she could be considered quite beautiful. Meriel was not quite as tall as Lady McTiernay, but then neither was she petite. Her body was subtly provocative, with curves promising of hidden riches that did not match her personality, which was too sweet and compliant for his tastes. Still, her company had been far more tolerable than he had expected.

“Beautiful? You think Raelynd beautiful?”

Hamish nodded. “You too. It is difficult to tell the two of you apart until one of you starts to speak. Then there is no doubt.” Realizing that he had spoken his thoughts aloud, he immediately stiffened and waited for her rebuke.

Meriel’s eyelashes fluttered and she blinked several times. Then before she could help herself, she burst out in laughter. Such brutal honesty coming from a man who liked to beguile and flatter women with nonsense had been unexpected. Hamish was always so careful around her—about what he said and what he did—trying never to offend. It had made her just as cautious. “So I am beautiful too, am I? How about the first time you saw me?” she questioned, wondering if he recalled her first night at McTiernay Castle.

Hamish absolutely remembered. Very clearly, and by the twinkle in her eye, so did Meriel. He grinned and then struck a serious expression. “That night I think I would have used the term ‘breathtaking.’ Aye, that’s it. You were definitely breathtaking.”

Meriel reached up and tugged on Hamish’s loose auburn locks. “You could be just as
breathtaking
if you let little Brenna style your hair.” Her sense of humor took over and she could not stop herself from asking, “It just so happens that I remember you too. Especially the last night we were here right after my sister’s wedding. You were quite the sensation among my sex. Tell me, was there a woman to whom you did
not
make an overture?”

Hamish cocked a brow but refused to deny the accusation. “One. It was you, I believe.”

Ignoring the comment, Meriel continued. “I have always wondered if you ever actually succeeded in ensnaring a woman with your nonsense.”

Hamish glanced down and studied the wicked grin on her lips. Mischievous was not a quality he would have attributed to either of the Schellden twins, and especially not Meriel. He was starting to get an inkling why Craig preferred the company of someone so . . . uninteresting. The woman was anything but.

Playing along, Hamish tried to appear insulted and puffed out his chest. “With this face and body? How could women resist?”

Meriel could not help herself and joined his deep, warm, rich laughter. Despite her hint otherwise, Hamish
was
good-looking
and
charming, but what he probably did not know is what really lured women to his side—the air of strength about him. She felt protected just by being next to him.

She elbowed his side with a playful jab. “Regrettably, I am sure that very few women could or do resist. But I am curious—has any woman ever succeeded in catching
your
affections?”

Hamish stared at Meriel for a long moment, assessing whether or not he should answer her honestly. He was surprised to find himself wanting to, for yesterday at this time, he would not have imagined telling her the type of food he liked, let alone the inroads to his heart. “I would really like it if a particular someone caught me now,” he said truthfully.