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This web site uses affiliate programs for monetization, which means when you click on links to various sites and/or make a purchase, this may result in a commission that is credited to this site. Some affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, Amazon and Apple. Links are placed on various pages and blog posts throughout the website.

Through The Storm

Book Three

The Wades of Crawford County Series

Free on Kindle Unlimited

Through the Storm

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The Wade family saga continues in this work of historical fiction set in post-Civil War Missouri. Love reigns in the home of Leann and Ralph Wade, although tested many times during the course of their marriage. Sonny Wade, Ralph’s brother, harbors a secret passion for Leann, and Joan Smith, a family friend, desires Ralph. Leann and Ralph struggle to overcome the storms of life through faith, courage, and commitment to each other.

“Truly captivating in the development of the entire cast of characters, each person is given a detail unseen in literature today. These are not just silly heroes and heroines prancing about on a page. These are real people, fighting real challenges, loving real loves. If you’re looking for a truly well told story, this is your book.” ~ Jessie

THROUGH THE STORM

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” ~ John 16:33

Chapter One

Cuba, Missouri

September 18, 1880

Rays from the rising sun crept through the leaves of the large red oak, through the slightly opened window and onto Leann’s eyelids. Her eyes burst open. How could she have slept so late? She felt the emptiness on her husband’s side of the bed, but he always rose before dawn to milk the cow, bring in firewood, and get a nice fire going in the fireplace. She usually got up with him to make coffee and cook breakfast. He must have slipped quietly from the bed so as not to waken her.

Leann turned on the pillow and remembered the date. Moisture stung her eyes. Today, she would not celebrate but commiserate her twenty-ninth birthday. Another barren year gone, her prayers unanswered. The days of her youth had sped by so quickly, just thinking about them made her head swim.

The aroma of freshly brewing coffee wafted on the air, filling her nostrils and making a desire for a cup of the strong brew outweigh a desire to remain in bed with the quilt pulled over her head. The realization of her husband’s thoughtfulness on her birthday washed away the dread of facing another year. How nice of Ralph to make coffee and let her sleep in this morning. She slipped from the bed, donned slippers and robe, ran a brush through her long hair, and tied the tresses from her face with a blue grosgrain ribbon. She would wait to warm water on the stove before completing her morning ablutions.

Leann made her way to the kitchen of the small house. She gasped with surprise at the sight of her three children sitting around the table with a stack of pancakes on a platter and a brightly burning candle in the center of the top one. Four gifts wrapped in brown paper tied with twine lay in a neat circle around the platter of pancakes. Ralph stood beside the stove and turned as she entered the kitchen.

He began singing. The children chimed in. “Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Mama, happy birthday to you.”

A lump rose in Leann’s throat. Her sweet, thoughtful husband not only remembered her birthday, but planned a surprise celebration. Katy, her ten-year-old foster daughter, ran to encircling Leann’s waist with youthful arms. Jim and then Jesse, her sons, rose from the table to follow their sister. All three tried to hug her at once. Ralph watched from his place beside the stove and then moved in her direction with a big smile. He leaned over the heads of the children to give her a sweet kiss. His deep brown eyes glowed with warm love when they captured hers.

“Happy birthday, sweetheart,” he spoke quietly.

“Thank you so much.” She patted the heads of her excited children and returned her husband’s smile.

Ralph stood back. “Okay children, let your mama sit down and blow out her birthday candle.”

The children moved to one side, but held onto Leann’s robe, leading her to the table. She took a chair in front of the pile of pancakes that held the brightly burning candle.

“Papa said we’d better use only one candle. The pancakes wouldn’t hold the number we’d need for your birthday,” Jim said.

“You didn’t need to tell her that, Jim.” Ralph laughed, getting two mugs from a shelf and filling them with coffee. He handed Leann one and then sat down at his usual place at the head of the table.

The two boys sat in their places across the table from each other. Ralph said they got into too much trouble when they sat together.

“Blow out your candle and make a wish, Mama,” Katy said, taking her seat beside Jim.

Leann looked around at the bright eager faces of her family. She took a deep breath then blew really hard, extinguishing the candle’s flame instantly.

“Did you make a wish?” Jesse asked.

“You’re not suppose to tell your wish, Jesse,” Jim said in a disgruntled voice.

“I don’t mind telling my wish.” Leann caught her husband’s eye. “I wished for health and happiness for my family. Just like I do every year.”

Katy jumped up and ran to hug her mother. “We wish health and happiness to you, Mama.”

Leann patted the girl’s arm around her neck and looked at Ralph. He smiled, then a line formed between his brows. She suspected he knew the real wish of her heart. Health and happiness for her family were certainly at the top of her list, but another matter competed for first place.

“Katy, why don’t you serve the pancakes before they get cold, then Mama can open her gifts.” Ralph rose from the table and took plates from the shelf. “Jesse, get the forks and knives. Jim, you can get the cups for you kids then pour the milk.”

Leann started to rise and help her little family. The joy she felt at having such a thoughtful husband and children filled her heart full to brimming over.

“Stay put, Leann. This is your birthday and we’re gonna wait on you.” Ralph sat a plate in front of her.

Jesse brought her flatware, placed the fork on one side of the plate, then went around her and placed the knife on the other side. She smiled at the six-year-old. He was the light of her life, her only natural child, but should the Lord favor her, maybe another would be born this time next year. She had been praying so awfully hard for another baby.

Jim poured the milk for himself and his siblings. Nine years ago he came to them as a baby. She and Ralph legally adopted him. Her heart filled to brimming over with love for her caring, happy children.

Ralph and the boys took their seats at the table once more. Katy served Leann two large pancakes then went to Ralph and gave him four. He smiled at the big helping. “Katy must think I’m hungry. Pass Mama the butter and syrup, Jim, then send them on back to me. My mouth’s watering for these pancakes.”

Leann buttered her pancakes then passed the butter to Jim to send to Ralph. She did the same with the jar of maple syrup. The syrup had been made from the sap of their sugar maples last February. One more full can remained in the basement.

Katy finished serving the pancakes to her brothers and then sat down to take some on her plate. Before picking up the forks to eat, Ralph reached for the Bible, read a verse of scripture, then bowed his head. The family followed.

Ralph prayed, “Lord, thank You for this family and the food. Thank You especially for Leann who has shared these past eleven years with me. Please grant her wish and give her the desire of her heart. Use this food to nourish our bodies. Amen.”

She looked up to her husband’s bright eyes and wide smile then said, “Thank you for the prayer.”

“Hope your wish comes true. I’ll be doing my part to make sure it does.” He grinned.

He knew the secret desire of her heart. With a face flushed from heat, she ducked her head and began cutting the pancakes. “Who cooked the pancakes?” She thought to ask.

“I did,” Ralph said. “Do you like them?”

“They’re delicious. Thank you so much.”

“You’re welcome. I’ll let you tell me how much later on. We can get started on that wish of yours.” He forked a large piece of syrup-soaked pancake into his mouth and raised an eyebrow.

She gave him a wide-eyed stare then looked from one child to the other trying to discern if they knew the meaning of his statement. The children busily ate their breakfast without comment.

“When do I open my gifts?” Leann asked after the last bite of pancake. The children and Ralph had finished and waited patiently for her.

“Now, Mama,” Jim said. He stood, took a gift from the center of the table, and handed it to her with a smile stretching from ear to ear.

Leann quickly removed the twine and pulled back the brown paper. She put her hand to her mouth. “Oh, my.”

The package held a small handmade, punched tin picture frame without glass and a photo of Jim inside. Tabs cut from the center and folded back on three sides secured the picture in place. The frame sat on a larger tab at the bottom. Across the bottom of the frame the name, JAMES, was punched in tiny holes. The image of her son wearing his Sunday shirt and hair slicked down with oil beamed back at her. She smiled at the shinning face.

“Here, Mama. Open mine,” Jesse said dancing from one foot to the other before handing her another brown paper wrapped gift.

She quickly opened the gift which held a similar frame, except with the name, JESSE, punched at the bottom, and the smiling face of her small son, so dear to her heart, looking back at her.

“These are just beautiful,” she said over a large lump in her throat.

She opened Katy’s gift. Her daughter’s bright face and sweet smile shone brightly from the tin frame with, KATY, punched in the bottom. Flowers graced the corners, an ivy vine stretched across the top. The punch work emanated patience and skill.

“Thank you, Katy. This picture of you is very pretty.” She drew the girl close. “You are growing into a beautiful young girl. I’m very proud of you.”

Katy gave Leann’s cheek a small kiss. “Thank you, Mama. I’m glad you like the picture.”

“The frames are so lovely too. When did you learn to punch tin?” She picked up each frame from her lap and examined it.

“Papa showed us how,” Jesse spoke up with a broad smile crossing his face.

“Here, Leann. This is the last one.” Ralph stood beside her and handed her the last present. It was larger than the others.

She quickly opened the gift. It held a polished wooden frame with the photograph she and Ralph had made at the hotel when the traveling photographer came to town.

“When did this come in? I didn’t know we received it.” She studied the photograph carefully.

Her husband looked so very handsome in his black wool Sunday suit, and hair combed with oil. His eyes caught the burst of the flash. Bright shards of light glinted in the dark irises. She was dressed in a new dress with a ruffle around the collar, and her hair had been combed into a French twist in the back with tendrils of curls along her face and neck. The photograph held a good likeness of both.

“You look so pretty, Mama,” Jesse commented, looking over her shoulder.

Jim and Katy crowded in to see. “Papa sure is handsome in that picture,” Katy said.

Leann ran a hand over the shining wooden frame. She looked up at her husband.

The same smile on his lips shone in his eyes. “It sure is a pretty picture of you, Leann.”

“And a very handsome one of you. Thank you so much for the pretty frame. When did the children have their pictures made?”

“I took the kids into town that day you went to Sue’s to quilt. I had ours put in the frame when I picked the pictures up at the hotel last week. The kids and I have been working on their frames off and on for awhile.”

“All of you are mighty good at keeping secrets.” Leann hugged her children. “I didn’t suspect a thing”

“Papa said he would get us if we told,” Jim offered grinning up at his father.

She looked up at her husband’s glowing face. “Thank you. I love these pretty pictures and frames. They will be my special treasures.”

Leann rose to place each one on the mantle with the photograph of Ralph and her in the middle and the others grouped around it. She backed away to admire the arrangement. Ralph wrapped an arm around her, pulling her close. She melted into his warmth. The children gathered around their parents. Leann stood beside her thoughtful husband and her children feeling the love and warmth of a devoted family.

“Okay, kids. Time for you to get ready for school,” Ralph said removing his arm from her waist. “Horses need to be saddled, Katy and Jim. I’ll be in the barn when you get dressed.”

Leann stood for one last look at the photographs gracing the mantle. Her gaze lingered on the one in the middle, with those of the two boys on one side and Katy’s on the other. Hopefully, someday soon, they could add another daughter to even the arrangement.

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The Wades Series

The Wades of Crawford County SeriesHeaven Must Wait

Heaven Must Wait (Book One ~ A Novella)

Follow Your Heart

Follow Your Heart (Book Two ~ A Novel)

Through the Storm

Through The Storm (Book Three ~ A Novel)

Heaven Must Wait Part II

Heaven Must Wait, Part II (Book Four – A Novella)

A Highland Love

Book Five

The Highland Treasures Series

Buy Links:

Amazon

Alistair must choose between giving up his son for Davina, or trying to rescue his wife and keep his son. Does he love Blane enough to fight for him? He loves Davina too much to let her go.

 Roy Patillo, Castle Fàrdach’s accountant, and his wife, Ina, participate in Alistair’s and Davina’s wedding. Roy invites the couple to his home for a feast and to spend their wedding night in his guest chamber. The meal is interrupted by a messenger from Fàrdach Castle with the news Lady Maidie Munro is in labor with her bairn and requests the couple’s return to the castle. Maidie is the widow of recently deceased Clan Munro chief, Andrew Dubh Munro.

After the child’s birth, Alistair is called away to pursue reivers of the clan’s cattle. He is gone for several days. Davina stays in prayer for her husband’s safe return. She keeps busy with Maidie’s children and assists in tending the new bairn. On Alistair’s return, the couple spend their wedding night together in the chief’s chamber at Fàrdach Castle.

Bridget, Alistair’s first wife, will not let him call on their son, or allow Blane to visit Alistair at Fàrdach Castle. The chief decides to kidnap his son. Struan Sutherland, Bridget’s husband, has Davina taken in return and held hostage. Struan plans to exchange Davina for Blane. While the child, Alistair’s heir, is under the Sutherland’s control, he has guardianship over the chief’s vast land holdings and Castle of Contullich.

Kidnappers take Davina to a steading first, then a cave high on the braeside of Ben Wyvis. They attempt to go over the mountain into Sutherland territory, but the winter snows slow them down. Davina almost loses her life during the journey.

Alistair pursues the outlaws, but will he rescue his beloved Davina in time?

A Highland Love

“And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbors together, saying, ‘Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost.’” Luke 15:9

Chapter OneThe Wedding

Scottish Highlands

November, 1519 A.D.

The borrowed beige silk gown with lovely green embroidery clung to her lithe form like a seamstress had spent hours stitching the garment. Her eyes, the color of golden barley in the field, sparkled and danced, while the corners of her rosy mouth turned up in a pleasant smile. Alistair gazed into the face of Davina, his heart bursting with love for the bonnie lass who stood with him before his friend, Maighstir Calum, Dingwall’s priest. She flashed a brilliant smile in return. His heart skipped a beat.

The good priest cleared his throat and repeated the vows for Alistair.

“Aye, I do,” he managed to say.

“Ye must repeat the vows, sir.” Irritation sounded in the cleric’s voice.

Alistair turned away from Davina and addressed his friend. “Would you repeat the vows, Calum?”

“Ye should listen better.”

Alistair nodded his dark head. He dared not look at his bride again, until the ceremony ended. The maighstir droned vows for Davina to repeat. He glanced her way, but she was intent on repeating the words. Finally Calum addressed the couple, pronounced them man and wife, and then told the groom to kiss the bride. Alistair caught Davina against his chest with his free arm until she sighed, then planted his lips atop her soft ones. Her arm embraced his neck when she returned his passion.

After a time, Maighstir Calum cleared his throat.

Alistair raised his head to search Davina’s face. “You’re mine now. I’ll ne’er let you go.”

“Aye, and you’re mine,” she said in return. “I’ll ne’er let you go.”

The hand of his witness, Roy Patillo, touched Alistair’s arm. “Sir, my wife has a dinner arranged for the two of you and Maighstir Calum.” Roy unbound the right hands of the couple from the handkertch holding them together. Before the ceremony, he had made a small cut in the palm of each one’s right palm, then bound the hands together with a kertch, indicating the two are now one.

The solicitor’s wife, Ina, who stood beside Davina, smiled and nodded her approval. “My household servants are preparing a meal and chamber for you and your bride, Sir Alistair.”

“Thank you, kind lady. My wife and I are honored to be your guests. We appreciate your hospitality.” Alistair turned to the cleric then pressed a gold coin into his hand.

With a nod, Calum smiled, made the sign of the cross, and blessed the couple. Alistair took up Davina’s arisaid and placed it around her shoulders, then donned his cloak. He placed her arm through his, escorting her from the kirk. The Patillos and Maighstir Calum followed. Stopping on the kirk’s stone steps, the groom picked up his beautiful bride and carried her to a waiting carriage, the same carriage that had fetched them from the tavern where they had spent the previous night in separate chambers, he remembered.

When seated, Alistair placed a protective arm around Davina’s shoulders. With his free hand, her took her chin then turned those soft rosy lips toward his. He gently pressed his mouth to hers, but passion and desire caused him to intensify the caress. A throat cleared at the carriage door. Alistair turned to see the priest climbing into the carriage, followed by Roy and Ina. The three crowded onto the opposite seat, their knees intertwining with Alistair’s and Davina’s. Ina straightened her skirts and clung to the door so her knees would not bump against Alistair’s. The crowded conditions forced him to removed his arm from his bride’s shoulder and shift his position.

The couple exchanged looks of consternation while the carriage bumped and jiggled down cobbled streets with puddles from melting snow left by the storm from three days ago. They passed several shops, the town hall, and the tavern where they spent last eve. The royal burgh of Dingwall, a Scandinavian word for meeting place, was also the location of the largest castle north of Sterling Castle. Alistair’s distant relative, Hector Munro, resided in the castle as governor of Dingwall. The governorship passed to Hector when Sir Seamus Andrew Munro died and his son, William, chose to remain at Fàrdach as Chief of Clan Munro instead of taking the position as Governor of Dingwall Castle. Hector opposed Alistair’s pardon that Chief Andrew Munro, William’s son, sought. 

The carriage stopped in front of a house built of quarried stone and topped with a slate roof. A servant stood beside an open gate in a stone wall surrounding the yard. He rushed to the carriage, opened the door, and helped Ina disembark. He then assisted Roy and then Maighstir Calum. Alistair pushed the servant’s hand aside, reached the ground unassisted, and then turned to lift Davina from the carriage. With his bride in his arms, he moved past the group, through the gate, then crossed the yard to the home’s stone steps. He stopped on the small stoop while the servant rushed forward to open the door. The couple entered Roy’s home. Before putting her feet on the floor, Alistair bent his head and found Davina’s soft lips with his.

Davina moved her head. “You may put me down. The others are waiting to enter.”

Alistair placed her feet on the floor, but kept an arm around her waist as if afraid she would leave his presence. Stepping to one side, he whispered in her ear, “Now that you’re mine, I canna let you go.”

She smiled. “I’ll nae leave you. That you should ken by now.”

“I’m no’ certain of the possibility. You were reluctant to marry me.”

Davina searched his face. A line creased between her clouded eyes. “You doubt my love?”

The brave knight who never lacked for words when necessary had no answer. He did harbor a doubt concerning her love. She had been reluctant to accept his many marriage proposals until last eve at the tavern when a buxom serving lass made advances toward him. Suddenly Davina said they should be married if Maighstir Calum would circumvent the banns. He felt she had come to love him in her own way, so he grabbed her crumbs of affection.

The aroma of cooking food filled the room. Alistair’s stomach made so much noise while the servant took their wraps, an embarrassed flush colored his cheeks.

Davina glanced his way and smiled. “I’m hungry too. We had no time to break the fast this morn. One cup of tea does no’ last long.”

“Aye. ’Tis hardly a drop in my stomach.” He watched while the servant took the wraps from their companions.

Ina beckoned to the couple. “Come. We have a nice meal waiting. I ken you didn’t have much time to break the fast this morn and are famished.” She glanced at her husband. “Roy and I are hungry also. We dressed and left for the kirk in a rush after getting the message from Maighstir Calum.” She glanced at Davina. “You look verra bonnie in my daughter’s green dress. She is just your size and left the garment to be mended when she accidentally ripped a seam on her last visit.”

“Please thank your daughter for me, Madam. She saved me from being wed in traveling trews.”

“I certainly will, Lady Davina. ’Tis our pleasure, hers and mine, to share in your wedding.” Ina nodded toward the next room. “Come, let’s satisfy those empty stomachs.” She smiled at Alistair.

They entered the modest dining hall. A large tapestry of fruit trees and animals covered one wall. The portrait of a hunter dressed in a great plaide of muted colors, holding several rabbits, with two hounds by his side hung over a sideboard covered with platters of food and dishes of relish. A trestle table stood in the middle of the room, dressed with pewter trenchers, cups, and silver spoons. Large cloth kertches lay beside each trencher waiting for the diners to tie them around their necks. Two serving maids stood ready to serve the food. Another attendant who looked to be older than the others and probably the head housekeeper held a pitcher of ale.

Alistair assisted Davina with sitting on the bench, then took a seat beside her. He moved so his leg caressed hers under the table. The others sat across from them. Maids served roast pork and chicken, haggis, beats, turnips, and biscuits. Alistair took a hardy portion of each dish and three fluffy biscuits. Seldom had he been fortunate enough to have biscuits. Bannocks were the staple breads at his table. He noticed Davina took very small portions of each and picked at her food. He worried she may be having second thoughts about their marriage, but when she turned and flashed him a pleasant smile, his concern eased somewhat. 

Roy asked a question. Alistair turned his gaze from Davina. “Pardon? I missed your question.”

The host laughed. “Have you been successful in deciphering Andrew’s ledgers? He had a particular way of keeping books that eluded me sometimes.”

“Nae. ’Tis the reason I came for you.” Alistair turned to gaze at Davina. “Then I got distracted.”

The others stopped eating. Roy cleared his throat to keep from laughing. Calum’s wide mouth stretched across his face, and Ina smiled while giving her husband a hard look to tone down his mirth.

***

Davina’s face flushed under Alistair’s intense brown eyes. His leg rubbing against her under the table made her heart beat a fast, pulsating rhythm, and her throat constrict so eating became difficult. Then his hand came to rest on her knee. This man, now her husband, aroused feelings she had long denied and suppressed. She had been keen on returning to London in the spring and resuming the social life left behind when her English husband, Sir Edward Townsend, died suddenly from a fever. Then this ruggedly handsome knight came into her life. Clan Munro elected him chief when her brother, Andrew Dubh Munro, died and left a son too young to lead. Gavin, her second brother, wished only to live with his lovely wife, Flora, and their family at Leslie Manor. Gavin possessed a restless soul and wanted no clan responsibility except assist Alistair as tanist.

“You’re no’ eating, Lady Davina. Are you no’ hungry?” Alistair asked while searching her face and squeezing her knee.

Looking around the table, she discretely moved his hand from her leg then gave him a piercing look. “I too am distracted,” she whispered.

He grinned. “We’ll soon be done with entertaining, a ghaoil.”

Davina gazed into her husband’s ruggedly handsome face with a battle scar across the left cheek. He resurrected dead emotions deep within her being. She could face staying at Fàrdach Castle through the dreary winter months and give up thoughts of returning to London with him at her side. Her heart filled to almost bursting at the sight of him in the borrowed wedding refinery. Alistair looked every inch the chief of a mighty Highland clan, dressed in a great plaide, secured by a large cairngorm stone on his shoulder, his dark hair glistening in the lamp light, and his dark brown eyes dancing. 

Thank you, Lord, for bringing this fine mon into my life. I so need his strength, she silently prayed, then turned away to pick at her food and listen to the others. The topics of conversation did not hold her interest. Her mind drifted to thoughts of the future with Alistair. She would be his wife and companion, managing the everyday affairs of Fàrdach Castle with its many servants and attendants. She thought about Maidie, Andrew’s pregnant widow, who would give birth to her third child at any time. Her brother so wanted to be with his wife during the childbirth, but fate took him into death too soon. Alistair and Gavin would be present to receive the child into their care. The bairn would be well-loved.

A pounding on the front door startled those at the table. Eyes turned to follow the butler as he made his way to the entrance. An excited voice sounded from the portal. The door soon closed and the butler returned to whisper in Roy’s ear. An expression of concern covered the host’s face when the attendant stepped back.

“A messenger from Fàrdach is here with the news that Lady Maidie Munro is now in labor with her bairn. She requests the immediate return of the chief and Lady Davina to the castle,” Roy announced.

Davina and Alistair exchanged glances. He finally spoke with a shake of his head, “My regrets, wife. Our honeymoon has been delayed. We must return to Fàrdach immediately to assist this new life into the world.” 

Davina saw the look of disappointment in her husband’s face and heard the regret in his voice. Her own heart filled with dismay over being denied the pleasure of her groom’s company on their wedding night. Duty called, and now she realized duty came first with Alistair.

He rose, then assisted her as the others followed suit. “Come, we must make ready to leave.” Searching her face he said, “I’m sorry, a ghaoil, but we must return to be with Maidie.” He bent to whisper, “Our chamber at Fàrdach is a most fitting place to spend our wedding night.” Alistair turned to Roy. “Will you give the messenger food and allow him to rest before returning to the castle?”

Roy nodded, “Certainly, sir. He is most welcome here.”

“Lady Davina and I will leave immediately. ’Tis a little past noontime now, and we can be within the castle walls by nightfall.” He took Davina’s arm. “We will change into our riding attire if your servant will show us to the chamber.”

They followed the maid to a third floor chamber, the one prepared for their wedding night. She opened the door and held it for the couple. How lovely the small chamber with a warm fire in the blazer, a single wooden armed chair with tapestry cushion, blue damask drapes on the one window and matching bed curtain. A beautiful silk counterpane covered the bed, and a wool rug graced the oak floor. Davina thought she would have loved spending her wedding night here.

When the maid closed the door behind them, Alistair took her into his arms, pressing her close so she could feel his heart beat. “I’m so verra sorry we cannot stay the night in this lovely chamber, but we must be on our way. A bairn will not wait.”

She tilted her head to look into his clouded eyes. “Aye. I understand. We must go to Maidie. I promised Andrew I would be with her at the birth of their child. Maidie needs our support.”

Alistair cupped her chin. “You’re heart is verra kind, my wife, verra kind and thoughtful. I love you dearly.” 

His lips found hers and pressed softly then became more intense in his caress. He crushed her to his chest so she could barely breath. They exchanged passionate kisses for a long while. Alistair’s lips left hers to nibble on her ear, then follow the line of her neck to her shoulder.

She pushed away. “We must change to our riding garments and leave if we expect to reach Fàrdach before dark.” 

His hands dropped to his side. A look of disappointment covered his face. “Make haste then.”

They changed clothing, donning the garments they had worn to Dingwall—Davina in trews, stockings, leather boots and jacket over a linen leine then all covered with a fur-lined arisaid; Alistair in a leine, wool jacket, riding trews, stockings and leathers boots. They folded the borrowed wedding garments and left them on the bed. Davina looked around the chamber one last time, regretting the way her wedding day ended.

Before opening the door, Alistair turned to Davina then wrapped his strong arms around her, tucking her head under his chin. “I so regret the ending to our wedding day. We should have been married in the chapel at Fàrdach Castle and spent a proper wedding night in our chamber there.”

His gentleness caused tears to sting her eyes. “We’re married now, and will be together forever. We’ll have a fine honeymoon, mayhap no’ tonight, but soon. I’m thinking of a secluded place on the banks of River Alness further into the Highlands.”

“Are you thinking of the hunters’ steading north of Drumainn?” His hand stroked her hair.

“Aye. I haven’t seen the site in many winters, but Andrew took me there once. ’Tis a beautiful place, and very private.” She backed away to look into his eyes now pooling with emotion. “We’ll go without telling where, except for Gavin in case he needs us.”

“’Tis a great plan, lady wife. I’ll have you to myself.” Alistair gazed at her lips then pressed them with a passionate kiss.

Roy Patillo and Ina met them in the parlor, both dressed in traveling clothes. “We’re going with you. Ina is a fine midwife and knows much about birthing. Isn’t the bairn arriving early?”

“Aye. Maidie expected the babe around Yuletide.” The thought of Maidie loosing Andrew’s child caused Davina’s heart to race. The lady had been under a lot of stress during Andrew’s illness and passing. She had never regained the composure so defining of her character.

Teddy, the lad from Fàrdach’s stables who came with the message, met them with horses. Roy had his groom saddle their mounts and his servants provide provisions for the journey. Teddy seemed warmer and eager to return to the castle. 

“Teddy, ride ahead. Tell Lady Maidie we’re on our way and bringing Ina Patillo, an accomplished midwife,” Alistair ordered as he assisted Davina in mounting.

The lad spurred his garron into a gallop when he entered the road. Roy helped Ina, then handed her a leather bag that she carefully tied to her saddle. The men mounted, Alistair on his steud, Brody, and Roy on a garron from his stables.

“We’ll return when possible,” Roy told the butler. “If someone inquires of my whereabouts, tell them I’ll be away for awhile and leave a message. We’ll stay with Maidie until Ina is no longer needed. I plan to assist Alistair with Fàrdach’s accounts, and heavens above I have no idea how long that will take.” He turned to Alistair and smiled. The knight only raised his eyebrows in return.

The party departed and quickly urged their horses into a fast trot. Snow banked the road. Mud puddles of melted snow dotted the road. Traveling would not be easy, but they must make the castle before nightfall. The ladies could not spend the night on the open road. A threat of robbers and ne’er-do-wells added to the danger of travel after dark.

Davina felt safe with her husband riding close by. He stayed at her side until the road conditions demanded they ride single file, then he moved in front. Roy placed Ina in back of Davina, then he and a his guard, Jock, brought up the rear. The men kept a lookout for any unusual sound or movement. The sure-footed garrons picked their way through the mud. Alistair’s steud attempted to dance around the puddles, but had no trouble wading through them with his powerful flanks rippling in the effort. Brody’s training and strength would be needed if a fight ensued on the road.

As Davin watched Alistair’s broad back and powerful legs guiding his great steud, a surge of love coursed from her heart to the tip of her toes. Goose bumps rose on her arms. She pondered the change of her life in the last few mios, months, since returning from London. She still missed her friends and social life in the great city, but with this handsome knight at her side, she would become accustomed to the quiet solitude of the bonnie Scottish Highlands. Looking around, she took in the snow covered bens and braes, the great wooded glens now glistening white in feasgar, afternoon, sunlight, and realized her homeland was indeed beautiful. Peace invaded her soul. She laid to rest the great raging battle of her heart between returning to London and staying in the Highlands. The lovely Highlands with Alistair won.      

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Follow Your Heart

Book TwoThe Wades of Crawford County Series

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Follow Your Heart

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Follow Your Heart is a poignant tale of newlyweds, Leann and Ralph Wade, and their struggle to overcome difficulties during the early years of marriage in post Civil War Missouri. The novel tells of a love strong enough to survive the hard times with the cords of family values and faith intertwined throughout the story.

“Beautiful love story of a young couple just starting their lives together and the struggles they face. They learn to read the Bible and pray for guidance as they seek God’s will. I am ready for the next book!!! It is very well written.”  ~ Linda

“Excellent reading. I recommend this book to others. I enjoyed reading it very much and I am looking forward to more books in this series.” ~ Gail

Follow Your Heart

“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:9

Chapter One

Cuba, Missouri

September 1869

A chilly gust of wind pushed through the open window and past the lace curtains, jerking the wrinkled, faded paper from Leann’s hand, sending it to the floor. She shivered then rose to close the window.

Sue picked the paper up and examined it. “Are you still reading this letter from Sonny Wade, when you’re marrying his brother in two days? I thought you threw it away ages ago.”

“Hand that to me.” Leann had not heard her sister enter the room. She snatched the letter from Sue’s hand, tearing the fragile paper. “Really, Sue, my letter is none of your business. I should have thrown it away, but I felt sorry for Sonny, being in the war and a Union prison camp. And besides, I forgot about it.”

“You were hiding that letter.” Sue’s eyes narrowed when she looked directly into Leann’s.

“I didn’t hide it. You and the family read it.”

“Several years ago. You’ve been hiding it ever since and probably secretly reading it.”

“Don’t be silly.”

“Have you seen Sonny since he got out of the army? Or do you just read his letter and dream about the handsome man?”

“No, to both questions. He works on a Mississippi River steamboat and has only been home a couple of times. Pa told me he saw Sonny in town last year. They talked for awhile, then Sonny headed for the saloon when Pa walked away.”

“Well, you should have thrown it away. What if Ralph finds out you secretly kept his brother’s love letter?” Sue’s locks bobbed with her shaking head.

Leann tore the already ripped paper into tiny pieces and threw them into a small trash basket sitting beside the bedroom door. She could not explain to herself or to her sister why the letter had remained in the drawer for years. “Are you happy now? It wasn’t a love letter. You read it. He only wrote about the war and being homesick. I didn’t answer, so he never wrote again.”

Leann grabbed her younger sister by the arm, looking directly into the girl’s green eyes. Sue stared back with the same intensity. “And don’t you tell anyone about me keeping the letter. I forgot about it until I started packing. Do you want to cause trouble with Ralph or the family?”

“I won’t tell, if you will let me keep your pretty green parasol when you leave.” Sue pushed Leann’s arm off her own.

“That’s my only good one. It matches my green voile dress. I won’t have anything to take to the socials.”

“Make your husband buy you a new one.” Sue was unrelenting.

“Okay. I will leave my green parasol with you. Just don’t tell I kept the letter. Sonny Wade means nothing to me.”

“Well, he must mean something, or you would have thrown his letter away. He may not have put in writing that he loved you, but he came around here pretty often before he joined the army and gave Ralph room to move in.”

“I was only thirteen when he left.”

“I’m thirteen, and I love Johnny Townsend. I plan to be married when I’m eighteen, just like you. What if Sonny hadn’t gone to war? Would he have won your heart instead of Ralph?”

Would he have won her heart? Maybe. She had felt an attraction for him. He always seemed so adventurous and daring. She was shy and timid, so daring excited her. “No. I’ve always loved Ralph and always will.”

“Well, let’s hope so. After all, you’re marrying him, not Sonny. Ma wants you to come help with breakfast. She said we have a lot to do today, with finishing your wedding dress so you can wed your beloved.” Sue gave a small giggle, opened the door, and headed downstairs to the kitchen. Leann followed.

How could she have been so careless as to let Sue see Sonny’s letter? It should have been thrown away years ago. She forgot it lay hidden in the back corner of her undergarment drawer, until she began packing her things to take to her new home. She loved Ralph, and the excitement of becoming his wife filled her heart and soul. Hopefully, Sonny would stay away forever and she would never have to face him again.

***

Ralph Wade stared at the ceiling. Sleep would not come. The farm’s coffers were poorer than they were after the war when he first started farming. Gosh, he was getting married in two days. His ma said he worried too much and should turn his troubles over to the Lord, but saying and doing are two different things. After their marriage, Leann would be his responsibility. Could he take care of her properly?

Her family, well-to-do before the conflict, now suffered financially, along with everyone else in the south, but was still doing better than most. Her father had managed to sell some cattle to pay for the wedding. Ralph had nothing to contribute but the farm, his strong back, and a willingness to work his hands to the bone to make a good living for her. If only his crops would produce sufficiently and he could find a buyer for them.

Leann may not want to marry him if she knew he was broke. Just thinking such a thing did a grave injustice to their love. She loved him for himself, he felt sure, and would share his struggles. Leann told him she wanted a large family, and her desire became his desire. He had loved her for as long as he could remember, but children cost money.

Dear Lord, those were hard years of waiting. In two days she will be his wife. He hadn’t prayed much in his life, not that he didn’t believe in the Lord, he just didn’t have the time. Now he needed to earnestly seek the Lord’s blessings on this new life he would share with Leann. He could use the Lord’s help with his finances too.

***

“Leann! It’s time to go. Ralph Wade will have my head if you’re late. He’s been pestering me about this day for years,” Pa called from the bottom of the stairs.

“We’re coming, John,” Ma called back from the girls’ bedroom, where she assisted Leann in putting on the finishing touches of her wedding attire.

Leann gazed into the full-length mirror on the bedroom wall one last time and approved of her image.

“You’re very pretty. Ralph’s a lucky man.” Ma gave the soft ivory broadcloth skirt of the dress one last smoothing stroke with her hand then stood back to look at Leann’s reflection.

“Thank you, Ma, for everything you’ve done to make my wedding beautiful—ordering the pattern and material for my dress from Mr. Samuels and helping me sew it.” Leann embraced her mother. She would miss this loving woman who taught her so much about life and living.

Ma returned the embrace. “You’re welcome, dear. I did it because I love you and want your wedding to be very special.”

“I love you, Ma.”

Leann fingered the delicate lace of a matching color that graced the high collar around her throat and the cuffs of the long narrow sleeves. Small buttons covered with the same fabric lay in a neat row down the front of the bodice to the skirt. The full pleated skirt almost touched the floor hiding white cotton stockings and beige leather high-topped shoes. She had a new bonnet and pink wool shawl to complement the outfit.

Leann turned to her sisters who stood behind her admiring the work they had done on their older sibling’s hair. “And thank you for brushing my hair and helping me pin it.” The girls had arranged her hair into a neat bun with small curls framing her face.

“Washing your hair in rainwater sure makes it shine,” Sue commented. She patted her own head. “My mousy brown hair won’t shine like yours.”

Leann smiled at the young girl. “You have beautiful hair, Sue.”

“I just wish I had some red highlights in it like yours.”

Leann placed a matching pearl handled comb, brush, and hand mirror into the satchel. Before packing the small bottle of lilac toilette water Ralph had given her, she opened the bottle releasing the sweet aroma and dabbed some behind both ears.

Ma started out of the room. “I’m going on downstairs. Hurry and finish up. Your pa and the boys are waiting for us. Is this ready to go?” She picked up the satchel from Leann’s bed.

“Yes, Ma.” Leann ran her hands down the front of the wedding dress one last time.

Sue placed the bonnet on Leann’s head and tied the ribbons under her chin in a neat bow.

Mary Jane clapped her hands and said, “You look beautiful, Leann. I can hardly wait to see Ralph Wade’s face when he sets eyes on you. I’ll bet his heart skips a beat or two.”

“I don’t want you to leave. I’ll miss you.” Sally sat watching.

Leann went to the little girl and gave her a hug. “I love you, Sally. I’ll be coming home often, and you can come to see me.”

“It won’t be the same around here without you.”

“Don’t be so sour on Leann’s wedding day, Sally,” Mary Jane scolded. “You want to make her cry and mess up her face? Ralph may not like that.”

The two older girls giggled, making Sally smile. Leann loved her sisters and would miss them terribly. She looked in the mirror one last time to make sure the bonnet sat straight.

“Come on, Leann. Do you want to be late for your own wedding?” Luke called from the bottom of the stairs with a gruff voice.

He had to ride in the wagon with the other kids while Tom rode the family’s third horse.

Leann grabbed her new shawl and rushed down the stairs with the girls. When she stepped from under the cover of the porch roof, a large drop of cold water splashed on top of her new bonnet, penetrating the fabric to her hair and feeling cold.

“Thank goodness the rain’s over.” The persistent rain shower kept her from sleeping most of the night.

She stopped for a moment to gain her composure and gaze at the lovely rainbow forming across a brightening sky—a perfect picture in every way. The rain had washed the fields of the Missouri countryside to a vivid green and gold. Tall hardwoods cloaked in the beginning of fall colors and interspersed with green firs bordered the fields. Dark gray clouds began turning to fluffy white.

“God’s creation is so beautiful,” she whispered. “He’s so good.” Her heart filled with a sudden joy.

Ma and Stewart waited in the wagon while Pa stood beside the horses and held the reins. He looked handsome but uncomfortable in the new black serge suit and black felt hat. When she came down the porch steps, he handed the reins to Ma, removed his hat, and then met her with a warm embrace.

“You’re a beautiful bride, sweetheart.” He held her at arm’s length with his bright brown eyes creased at the corners and sparkling.

“Thank you, Pa. I’m awful nervous.”

“Well, you’re starting on a great big adventure—a new life.” Pa called to the rest of the family, “This whole bunch looks mighty fine in their new clothes today. Mighty fine.”

“Ralph and I have only been engaged a year, Pa,” Leann said while he helped her to the wagon seat beside her mother. He searched her eyes. “You said he’s been pestering you for years about this day.”

“Well, he’s been hanging around so long, I’ve lost count of the years.” Pa grinned.

Pa’s the biggest tease of all. I wonder if Ralph and I will have as much fun with each other and our kids. Ralph is awfully serious at times, but so am I.

Luke helped the girls into the wagon bed. The frown on his face deepened while he worked to sit between Stu and Leann’s trunk. He crammed the small satchel into a space next to the trunk. Pa climbed onto the seat beside Leann and Ma handed him the reins. Leann straightened her dress. She didn’t want to look wrinkled today, of all days.

Pa smiled. “I don’t imagine Ralph’s going to mind if you’ve got a wrinkle or two in your dress.”

Ducking her head, Leann felt heat rise to her face.

“Quit teasing the girl, John. You’ll get her all flustered before the wedding,” Ma said.

“I’m not teasing, Polly. Ralph Wade won’t be looking at Leann’s dress today.”

The children laughed at their father. Ma shushed them to quietness, but they continued whispering and laughing among themselves. Leann listened to their sweet voices and laughter. She would miss her siblings.

The wagon bounced and jostled down the dirt road. Rain from the night before made the road soft in places. The wheels of the wagon ground through muddy water, splashing it to the top of the sideboards.

“Pa, watch out. You almost splashed mud on me,” Sue cried.

“I’m trying to be careful, Sue.” Pa kept his eye on the road while carefully driving the horses.

Tom rode ahead and far to one side of the wagon so the muddy water wouldn’t slosh on him. He wore leather chaps to keep the bottom of his pants dry. The children laughed and talked. Leann could not hear all they said, but could hear the happiness and excitement in their conversation. Their excitement added to hers, lessening the tension she felt over the condition of the road.

She hummed the hymn, “My Faith Looks Up To Thee”. Music eased her mind when she became anxious. Ma began singing the words of the song in her sweet, high voice. Pa joined in the singing with his deep bass voice. The younger children, except for Luke, sang the chorus.

The trip into town along the muddy road seemed longer than usual. The horses strained in their traces. With taut arms and strong hands encased in heavy brown leather gloves, Pa pulled hard on the reins while guiding the horses through the large mud holes. Lumber wagons from the sawmill in town had left deep ruts that were now filled with water.

His forehead beaded with perspiration until he pulled the wagon to a stop, removed his coat, and handed it to Ma. Large wet rings appeared under the arms of his clean, freshly starched and ironed white shirt. Leann twisted the end of her shawl and looked at her mother’s drawn face. Ma stared straight ahead. The children were quiet. Luke rose to his knees so he could see the road. Tom rode behind the wagon now. He would stay close in case of trouble.

The town of Cuba finally came into view. Leann spotted the steeple of the church. Tom now trotted down Main Street ahead of the wagon. She saw wagons and horses tied in front of the church with people going into the building. Some of the men stood around in the churchyard getting a last chew of tobacco while others watched Ralph’s friends, Mac Henry and Tell Springer, roast a pig over an open pit at the side of the church. Several children ran and played, squealing with laughter. All turned to see who rode down the street.

Tom reached the church before the wagon. He dismounted the dapple-gray mare and tied her to a tree. Pa finally relaxed the reins and walked the tired horses to the church. Leann slipped her arm inside his. He turned to look at her and smile.

“We made it okay, daughter. You’ll get married to that young man after all.”

Rising slightly, she kissed his cheek. “Thank you, Pa, for working so hard to get me here. You’re my hero.”

“Well, we can’t disappoint your groom. He’s been waiting a long time for this day.” Pa laughed.

“Oh, Pa. I’m going to miss your joking and fun.”

He patted her hand as the wagon pulled into the churchyard. She rested her head on his shoulder before the horses came to a stop beside the mare. Leann sat up as people gathered around the wagon. Luke jumped out and tied the horses to the hitching post in front of the church. Stewart climbed out of the wagon bed then helped his sisters to the ground while Pa helped Leann then Ma out of the wagon. Leann smoothed her dress and hair. Ma handed Pa his coat. He slipped it on over a sweaty shirt.

Leann caught sight of Ralph’s parents coming out of the church. Katherine and Joe Wade quickly made their way to the family. The Wades greeted her parents.

Katherine hugged her and then held her at arm’s length. “You’re beautiful, Leann. Ralph is so very excited and nervous.”

“You sure are a pretty bride.” Joe moved his wife out of the way and embraced Leann. “My son’s a lucky man.”

Katherine took Leann’s elbow. “Joe, tell Ralph that Leann’s here. Polly and I will take her to the antechamber off the church vestibule so she can freshen up. The wedding will be starting on time. I think he’s still in Brother Daniels’ office with Joe Jr. and Sonny.

A gasp escaped Leann’s throat. Katherine turned to look at her.

“Are you all right, dear? You look a little pale. You must be feeling the jitters on your wedding day.”

“Sonny came to the wedding?” Leann managed.

“Yes. Actually, we were all surprised. Ralph wrote to Sonny and told him about your marriage, but we didn’t hear from him. Then he showed up yesterday.” Looking into Leann’s eyes, Katherine added, “I told Ralph it would only be proper to ask Sonny to be his best man since he’s the oldest. I hope you don’t mind. You were expecting Joe Jr. to do the honors.” Katherine smiled. “Do you mind, Leann?”

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Heaven Must Wait, Part II

Book Four

The Wades of Crawford County Series

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Heaven Must Wait, Part II

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Times are difficult in Missouri after the Civil War. Families struggle to keep their property from creditors and outlaws. The desire of Ralph Wade’s heart is to marry the girl of his dreams, beautiful Leann Clark, but many obstacles stand in their way. Ralph finds love is not enough to persuade Leann’s father to give his permission for their marriage. John Clark wishes more than love for his daughter. He wants her husband to provide a good living with a secure future. Ralph is much too hot-tempered and unreliable in John’s eyes. Leann desires the dashing Ralph and defies her father to be with him. She believes her love is strong enough to see them through the hard times. Through adverse circumstances, the young couple struggles to keep the fires of their love and faith burning.

Heaven Must Wait, Part II

“Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.” Psalms 27: 14

Chapter One

Cuba, Missouri
June, 1867

Ralph pulled the loaded pistol from his overall pocket, took careful aim, and discharged the barrel. Jed neighed and jumped at the sound. Ralph patted the faithful horse’s warm nose. A large rattler squirmed, shook its rattles, then lay still in the warm earth not far from the horse’s hoofs. Picking up the snake by the tail, he threw it into the woods, then replaced the pistol in his pocket. The weapon’s weight made carrying it difficult, but too many outlaws roamed the Missouri countryside these days after the war, decimating the farms with their thieving and killing.

Ralph tugged at his hat, pulled a large bandana from his pocket, and wiped the perspiration from his forehead. The afternoon heat felt oppressive, and the summer just beginning. Gosh, he missed Leann. Visions of her loveliness raced through his mind while he made plans to see her. The first opportunity would be at church on Sunday. He had not attended services for a while—since all the trouble began with her father and the summer activities of farming kept him so busy.

On Saturday afternoon, Ralph decided to attend church services in Cuba the next day. Seeing Leann during church was the safest way and sure to bring approval from John Clark, her pa. Ralph fed and watered the livestock, gathered eggs and fed the chickens, then brought the large number two washtub into the kitchen. He drew water from the sink pump he had installed in his kitchen several months before to fill the tub and heated more water on the stove. When the water was heated, he added it to the tub water, located a clean towel in the bedroom, and picked up the small bar of chamomile soap beside the bedroom’s washbasin. Leann had used most of the chamomile bar on Pearl’s hair. Paying good money to buy soap didn’t sit well with Ralph. He liked to use the lye soap his mother provided that made his hair unruly. He used a lot of hair oil that soon vanished to let stiff strands wander down his forehead into his eyes.

Ralph found clean underwear, trousers, and a shirt in the bureau placed the towel and soap on top of the bundle, then made his way to the kitchen. He threw the soap into the tub making water splash out onto the kitchen floor, and placed his clothing on a kitchen chair. He removed his work clothes, tossing them into a pile by the back door. They would be washed on Monday with the rest of his dirty clothes. The heat of summer and the amount of perspiration deposited on his clothing made frequent laundering necessary.

Ralph took a step toward the tub and slipped on a puddle of water. Arms and legs twisted in all directions and his buttocks landed squarely on the kitchen floor. The back of his head hit the floor next. All went black for a moment, then he opened his eyes and saw two of everything. He lay unclothed and still on the floor for a while, trying to get his bearings. Angry with himself for being so careless, he finally sat up and felt the back of his head. Blood covered his hand.

“Doggone. How stupid can I be?” he spoke aloud.

“I don’t know, but seems you’re mighty dumb to slip and fall in your own kitchen,” a voice spoke and a large hand reached down to help him to his feet.

Ralph rose to look into the eyes of his brother, Sonny. “Hello, Sonny.” He put an arm around the man’s neck.

Sonny gave Ralph a pat, then turned him around to look at the cut on the back of his head. Shaking his head, Sonny sat Ralph down in a chair, found a clean dishtowel, wet it with the bathwater, and applied it to Ralph’s head, washing the blood away from the wound.

“Man, do you always leave your door open when you take a bath? What if Ma or some other woman walked in?” Sonny rubbed Ralph’s head.

He winced. “Don’t rub so hard. No one’s ever walked in before. I live by myself, you know.”

“I just walked in on you, and it’s a good thing I did. There’s a first time for everything, especially when you leave your door open.” Sonny rinsed the towel in the bathwater and reapplied it to Ralph’s head.

“You’re getting my water bloody and I have to take a bath in it.”

“You need one too. I smelled you from the front door.” Sonny popped Ralph’s shoulder with the wet towel. “Get in the tub, then, and wash that head. You may need a stitch in it.”

“I don’t think so. I’m not going into town to see the doctor this afternoon,” Ralph said, climbing into the tub of now tepid water.

He lathered his entire body with the soap, making the cut on his head sting and his eyes water. He tried to soap his back, but couldn’t reach the very middle. Sonny walked to the tub and took the soap from Ralph’s hand, then lathered it across his back. His brother’s scrubbing felt good until he applied the soap to the cut again.”

“That’s enough,” Ralph said, then bent forward and ducked his head under the water.

When he came up, Sonny handed him a towel and looked at the cut again, examining it closely. “You may get by with just a bandage and some tincture of iodine, but you’ll have to shave the hair around the cut so tape will stick. Good thing I happened along to take care of you, Little Brother,” he said with emphasis on, little. “Get your gauze, tape, and iodine. I’ll fix you up.”

Ralph finished drying and wrapped the towel around his waist. He started for the bedroom to get the medicinal supplies from the room’s commode shelf. He kept supplies handy because they were needed on a regular basis on the farm.

“Oh yeah, bring your razor. I’ll need to shave the back of your head,” Sonny called.

“What a mess,” Ralph said under his breath as he made his way to the bedroom, found the needed supplies, then came back to the kitchen.

Ralph placed the articles on the table in front of Sonny. “When did you get home?”

“Yesterday. Thought I’d drop in to see how things are going for you since you struck out on your own. Seems you could be better at the moment. Why don’t I shave your head in the yard so hair won’t get all over everything.” Sonny picked up the razor, handed Ralph the wet dishtowel to hold on his bleeding head, and walked toward the door. Ralph followed.

When they reached the porch, Sonny grabbed a porch chair and took it to the yard. Ralph sat on the chair while Sonny began to shave his head. Ralph watched hair fall to the ground around him. Anger with himself churned his stomach. What would Leann and her family think now? Probably that he had been in another fight.

“You want me to shave your whole head? You’re gonna look funny with just the back shaved.” Sonny worked meticulously around the wound.

“Yeah, go ahead. Serves me right for being so careless.”

“You have a sore back here already that’s just getting well. What did you do to get that one? Get kicked by a mule?”

“It’s a long story and I don’t have time to tell it all.” He didn’t want to go into detail about the fight with Wesley Snipes in the Golden Goose Saloon.

“Have it your way if you want to keep secrets from your brother, but now you are going to have two scars on the back of your head.” More hair fell around Sonny’s feet.

With the job done, Ralph replaced the porch chair while holding the towel to the back of his head. The two men went inside. Sonny took the towel from Ralph, pushed him down on a kitchen chair, and rinsed the bloody towel at the kitchen pump. Sonny applied the towel with sufficient pressure to finally stop the bleeding. He painted tincture of iodine on the cut and Ralph yelped.

“Hold still,” Sonny said when Ralph squirmed.

His brother took too much pleasure in Ralph’s discomfort. Finally, the bandage was applied to the cut and Sonny sat down at the table across from Ralph.

“I just came to get a cup of coffee and see how you’re making it farming on your own. I didn’t intend to get into the doctoring business.” A broad grin broke across his handsome face. Sonny had grown a mustache, making him look like an outlaw. Maybe he had turned rogue. One could never tell about this wayward brother. “You look real cute with no hair.”

Ralph stared at his brother for a moment then ran his hand over his bare head. The stubble of hair felt soft under his palm. “I’ll be wearing my hat for a while, and I wanted to go to church, tomorrow.”

“I didn’t know you’re a church-going man.” Sonny looked astonished.

“I like to go to church. You’re the heathen of the family.”

Sonny’s eyes narrowed. “You have a girlfriend going to that meeting house?”

Ralph felt heat rise to his face. His brother could always read his mind. “Maybe.”

Sonny’s grin lit his face again. “Thought so. What’s her name?”

“You know her. Leann, Leann Clark.”

Suddenly, Sonny rose, walked to the door, picked his hat up off the floor where he had thrown it on seeing Ralph, and put it on. Ralph didn’t know what to think. Had he said something wrong? Sonny was acting strange, but unusual behavior was not new to this brother since he came home from the war.

“I’ve got to go. Take care of yourself and don’t take any more baths with your door open.” Sonny walked to his horse, mounted, and rode toward the town of Cuba.

Ralph supposed Sonny was going to the Saloon, which was his usual practice when in town. He would be gone in a day or two and the family wouldn’t see him again for several months or a year.

***

Leann’s spirits sang as she rushed around tiding up the parlor. Maybe Ralph would come for a visit since Tuesday was his usual time to come calling. She felt a keen disappointment when he had not attended church on Sunday, and didn’t want to get her hopes up too high. He seemed so unreliable lately, not showing up when he promised. Of course, the incident with Pearl last week could not have been avoided, but Pearl was gone, and hopefully, gone from Cuba.

“Leann, Ralph’s here.” Stu’s voice called from the front porch where the family had gathered after the supper meal.

She felt excitement course from the top of her head to the bottom of her toes. Her heart pumped viciously. Heat rose to her face. Ralph kept his promise. He loved her after all. She rushed out of the door and arrived on the porch just as he dismounted from Maude and tied her reins to the oak tree not far from the house. She stopped, not wanting him to see her excitement.

“Your boyfriend’s here,” Mary Jane said with a giggle. Sue joined her with another giggle.

“You girls stop teasing Leann,” Ma scolded.

Leann felt her father’s eyes watching her as she went down the steps to meet Ralph. She stopped in front of him. He seemed reluctant to go any closer to the house and her family.

“I need to talk to you, Leann. In private,” he said, then spoke to her parents, “Mr. and Mrs. Clark. How are you on this fine night?”

“We’re fine, Ralph. Come up on the porch and have a seat,” Pa answered.

“If you don’t mind, Mr. Clark, I’d like to walk with Leann to that big oak over there.” Ralph took her hand.

“Just stay in my sight, son.”

“Yes, sir. We will. Just to the oak over there.” Ralph led her to the oak where Maude was tied.

The mare whinnied when they approached her. He released Leann’s hand and stroked Maude’s muzzle, then turned back with a grin. She returned his smile. She couldn’t help noticing his shaven head peeping from under his hat. “What happened to your hair? Is your head shaved?”

His face flushed. She had never seen Ralph blush before. What could have possibly made him shave his nice thick, brown hair?

“That’s why I didn’t get too close to your parents. I don’t want them to see my head. He turned around and lifted his hat for Leann to see the bandage. A hand flew to her mouth as she gasped. “I was getting ready to take a bath Saturday night, getting ready for church, when I slipped in some water on the kitchen floor. I fell on the back of my head and cut it open and was knocked out.”

“Did you go to the doctor?” She felt relief he was not hurt any worse and that he was getting ready for church.

“No, Sonny came for a visit and found me. He shaved and bandaged my head, then left.” Ralph searched her eyes.

Leann tried to remain calm and spoke over a lump forming in her throat. “Sonny was here?”

“Yeah, funny thing. I told him I wanted to meet you at church, and he got up and left. Don’t know when we’ll see him again. It may not be for months, but I’m sure glad he happened by Saturday night.”

Leann turned away from Ralph’s scrutinizing eyes. Maybe her imagination read too much into his gaze, but she suddenly felt uncomfortable talking about Sonny. He meant nothing at all to her anymore, so why should the mention of his name make her heart beat faster and her palms perspire?

Ralph didn’t know Sonny had visited the Clark farm on several occasions and sought her out before he left for the war. She had just turned thirteen and was much too young to keep company with a boy. He came under the pretext of visiting with Tom, but always managed to speak to her and maybe chat for a while. Once she had taken a walk to the creek at the back of their farm and he found her there. She wondered how he knew where to find her. Maybe Tom had told him. Sonny said he had joined the militia and would be fighting Yankees, and wanted to say goodbye. He asked if he could kiss her and she said he could. He removed his hat and brushed her lips with a small kiss. After all, he was going to fight Yankees, and may not come back. She touched her lips several times after he left. Tom told her a couple of days later that Sonny was gone. She remembered feeling sad and forlorn. Ma thought she was sick.

Several months later, Ralph left bashful adolescence and found enough nerve to speak to Leann instead of watching from afar. He was handsome, like Sonny, yet more settled, more serious. Leann loved Ralph and his practical, logical thinking. He had a kind heart, but his temper flared with little provocation. Pa said Ralph’s temper would keep him in trouble if he didn’t learn to control it.

Ralph took Leann’s hand and pulled her to face him. “Are you all right?”

She looked into the pools of his deep, brown eyes. “Yes. I love you is all. I’m worried about your head. Do you want Ma to look at it? She and Pa will be pleased to know you were getting ready for church.”

Ralph sighed. “No. Sonny did a good job. It’ll be well in a few days. I’ll get Ma to change the bandage.”

“Do you want to take a walk? I’ll ask Pa if we can walk to the creek. He shouldn’t mind.” Leann squeezed Ralph’s hand.

“Yes. I would like to be alone with you for a little while if John will let us.” A line creased his brow as he turned toward the porch. “He’s watching us like a hawk right now.”

Leann pulled on his hands. “Come on. Are you afraid of Pa?”

“No.”

She laughed and jerked his hand. “Then come on, scaredy cat. Pa won’t bite you.”

Ralph followed along. “I’m not so sure about that.”

Leann giggled at his timidity. Pa seemed to be the only person around who could intimidate Ralph. They walked hand-in-hand to the porch. Trying to lighten the situation, Leann swung their arms, but Ralph jerked them to a stop. He was not in a playful mood. She looked up into his somber face and realized he dreaded speaking to her father. He glanced down at her. She smiled, but his brows remained knit together. Maybe he thought Pa would ask about his shaved head.

Pa looked up from his wood carving, and Ma from her crocheting when Leann and Ralph approached the porch. Her sisters were inside playing checkers. She could hear their laughter coming from the kitchen. The boys were probably in the barn milking the cow and taking care of chores. Pa always helped with the work, but not this afternoon. He must feel the need to keep an eye on Ralph.

Ralph squeezed Leann’s hand and swallowed hard before speaking. “Mr. Clark, do you mind if Leann and I walk to the creek?”

Pa didn’t answer. He made a cut in the wood. Ma put her crocheting in her lap and looked at him. Ralph squeezed Leann’s hand until a pain shot through her fingers. She looked up to see a jaw muscle twitch.

Pa stopped whittling and looked up at Ralph. “What happened to your hair?”

Ralph hesitated, then told her parents the story of his fall on the kitchen floor while trying to take a bath so he could attend church. Pa laughed.

Ma gave him a strong look. “Stop laughing at the boy, John. He was hurt bad.” She turned to Ralph. “Come up here and let me take a look at your head.”

Ralph obliged her and climbed the steps to the porch with Leann in tow. She pulled her hand from his and gave it a small shake to get circulation back into her fingers. Ralph stood in front of Ma and removed his hat then turned around. She stood on her tiptoes to look, but with Ralph being so much taller, could not see the back of his head very well.

“Sit down on the steps and let me get a good look,” she told Ralph.

He did as she said and sat on the top step. Leann stood beside Ma so she could see the wound. Pa left his chair and took a place behind Ma, looking over her shoulder. Ma turned to glance at him and he nodded toward Ralph. Ma gently lifted the tape from Ralph’s head. He didn’t cry out but winced. She tried to remove the gauze, but it was caked with blood and stuck to his head. She didn’t want to pull too hard.

“I can’t get this dressing off without making the cut bleed again. You need to go see Dr. Reynolds and let him take care of it,” she said.

“Can’t you soak it off, Polly?” Pa asked.

“Yes, but soaking it off will take time. Do you have time for me to soak this old bandage off and put on a clean dressing?” Ma bent down to look at Ralph.

He turned toward her. “Thanks all the same, Polly, but I’ll let my ma take care of it in a couple of days. It’s okay for now.”

Ma repositioned the tape on Ralph’s head and gave each piece and extra rub. Ralph stood and put his hat on.

He faced Pa. “May Leann and I have that walk to the creek, now?”

Pa shook his head. “I guess so. You sure are a persistent pest.” He smiled, but the smile vanished quickly. “Just remember, if you want to keep on seeing Leann, you better be on your best behavior.”

Ralph grabbed Leann’s hand and said, “Yes, sir. I promise to be on my best behavior.”

He led her out to the yard and across the meadow. The creek was about a half mile from the house, but the walk with Ralph was pleasant. Her heart sang with the meadow lark. They dodged the cow patties in the tall grass and kept an eye out for Tanner, the bull. Tanner didn’t like intruders in his pasture. Hopefully, he was getting a drink of fresh water from the trough at the barn.

They reached the copse of willow, oak, and hickory trees beside the creek. Limbs of the willow hung low over the water, sporting light green and yellow leaves. The majestic oaks stood tall with the hickory nested close by. Brown hickory nuts in their hard shells covered the ground underneath. Leann had a favorite spot in a clearing that gently sloped to the water. The boys and Pa had worn the grass down from their fishing excursions. Sometimes the family brought a picnic lunch and spent the day. During the summer months, they waded and swam in the water. Pa let the girls go without petticoats and swim in a blouse and light skirt. The boys swam in short cutoff pants without shirts. Leann thought this arrangement was unfair. She had seen swimsuits for women in Godey’s Lady’s Book, but Pa would not let them have one. He said they were immodest.

The creek water looked cool and inviting after the swift walk, so Leann sat down on a log and began removing her shoes. Ralph did the same, rolling up his pants legs. They waded the cold, shallow waters. Leann held Ralph’s hand with one of hers and pulled up the bottom of her dress with the other. They listened to a robin sing in a willow tree. Leann bent to watch the minnows nibble at her toes. A fish splashed in the deeper middle water.

“I need my fishing pole,” Ralph said when the fish splashed the second time.

“Pa and the boys caught four big bass and several small perch the other day. They seem to be biting now. We had a great fish fry.” Leann’s mouth watered just thinking about the good fried fish and potatoes.

“You’re making me hungry.”

“Did you eat supper before you came?” She stopped and turned to look up at Ralph.

His eyes met hers, lingering for a while, then he looked around. “I wonder if John followed us? Because I’m about to kiss you right now.”

Ralph bent his head over hers and found her lips with his. He released her hand, pulling her close. She closed her eyes, letting her skirt fall to the water, then put her arms around his neck and returned his ardent kiss, matching the fervor. They lingered in the kiss and embrace for longer than usual until the sound of a throat clearing broke the silence. Both dropped their arms and turned toward the sound. Tom stood on the bank with a fishing pole in his hand.

“Did Pa send you to spy on us?” Leann’s voice rose a pitch.

“No. I finished my chores. I didn’t know you were here, although Pa did say it was a nice afternoon for fishing.” Tom grinned.

Leann looked down at her skirts. “Now my dress and petticoats are wet. You gave us a scare, Tom.”

“I’m sorry. Looks like you were enjoying the creek.” Tom’s smile spread across his face.

“Well, don’t you tell Pa.” Leann began wading toward the bank with Ralph’s help.

“I won’t tell Pa nothing. What you and Ralph do is your business, but you need to be careful around the family. Luke and Stu are right behind me. Those two would probably tell Pa if they saw you kissing.” Tom opened a small leather bag he carried and pulled out a worm. He put the worm firmly on the hook attached to the line on his cane pole, then threw the line into the water.

Leann and Ralph sat on a nearby log watching Tom for a while before Luke and Steward appeared. They spoke to Ralph, fixed their lines with a worm, and threw them into the creek not far from Tom.

“We saw a big fish splash out there in the deep water just a little while ago. You need to throw your bait out as far as you can,” Ralph said, while watching the fishermen.

Leann knew he longed to throw a line in the water. “Do you want to go get a pole from the house?”

“I wouldn’t have time before dark and I need to get on home,” he said, rising from the log, then taking her hand to help her up. He pulled a little too hard so that she pressed against his chest. After looking around at the boys who had their attention fixed on their fishing lines, Ralph kissed her forehead. She wanted to stay close to him, but he squeezed her hand and began walking toward the house.

They walked slowly across the pasture while watching the sun paint colors of gold, pink, and lavender across the western sky. The heady smell of grass and cattle filled her nostrils. Leann felt close to Ralph, a joining of their spirits, and knew as long as she had breath she would belong to him.

They heard Luke yell from the creek bank, “I got ‘im. I’ve got the big one.”

Leann and Ralph turned around, but the trees blocked their view of the activity at the creek.

Ralph squeezed her hand. “I’m coming back with my fishing pole for sure.” He looked down at her with a broad smile. “And to see you, of course.”

She returned his smile. “Yes. I’m glad you added that. I wouldn’t like being second to a fish.”

They reached the house, climbing the steps to the porch. Pa and Ma had gone inside. Leann opened the screen door and pulled Ralph inside. Her parents sat on their chairs in the parlor. Ralph removed his hat but kept it in his hand. Pa read his Bible and Ma looked at a catalog.

“Ralph’s leaving now,” Leann said.

Pa looked up. “Did the boys disturb your walk by the creek? I saw them heading that way with their fishing poles.”

Ralph spoke up, “No, sir, they didn’t, and I think Luke caught a big bass. We heard him shout while we were walking back to the house.”

“I tell you, Ralph, there are some big ones in that little creek. They love that deep hole out in the middle. I’ll probably join the boys tomorrow afternoon.”

Ma put her book down. “Why don’t you come a little early next Tuesday, and we’ll have a fish fry if John and the boys can catch enough.” She looked at Pa and grinned.

“We might take a picnic lunch and spend the afternoon fishing, then fry the ones we catch for supper. Can you take an afternoon off and join us?” Pa asked, putting his Bible on the table beside his chair and rising. Ma did the same.

Ralph’s grin reached from ear to ear. “Yes, sir, I’ll be here with my fishing pole a little before noon.”

“Well, we’ll see you next Tuesday.” Pa smiled at Leann and then shook Ralph’s hand.

Ralph nodded to Ma. “Goodnight, Mrs. Clark.”

Ma said, “Goodnight to you, Ralph. We’ll see you next week.”

Leann felt she couldn’t be happier. Her parents seemed to have forgiven Ralph and were making friendly overtures toward him. She knew Pa expected both she and Ralph to act responsibly, and she determined not to break his trust. Her heart sang as they walked to the oak tree where Maude waited patiently.

Ralph put his hat on, then untied his mare. “I love you, Leann. I’ll see you next week.”

“I love you. I can hardly wait ’til next Tuesday.” She looked toward the house, then stood on her tiptoes and lightly kissed his lips.”

He quickly glanced toward the house, bent down and planted a firmer kiss on her lips, then mounted Maude. Without saying anything more, he turned his horse toward home. She stood watching until he rode out of sight. With a heart bursting with love for Ralph, Leann made her way back to the house.

“Goodnight, Ma and Pa,” she said as she crossed the parlor to the stairs.

“Goodnight, Leann,” Ma answered.

“Well goodnight, sweetheart,” Pa said. “I was hoping for a hug before you went up.”

She turned back and gave both her parents a big hug. “Thanks for inviting Ralph to our picnic and fishing trip.”

“I want to be where I can keep an eye on you two, rather than letting you wonder down there by yourselves,” Pa said.

Leann shook her head and turned to ascend the stairs to the bedroom she shared with her sisters. They were already in bed reading books. She soon joined them and grabbed her own book on the bedside table. She pretended to read, but could not concentrate. Her thoughts centered around Ralph. She pictured his face with its broad smile and white even teeth. His brown eyes sparkling with laughter, and his voice ringing out, calling her name. She soon drifted into sleep.

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About

The desire to write historical fiction has long been a passion with Brenda B. Taylor. Since elementary school, she has written stories in her spare time. Brenda earned three degrees: a BSE from Henderson State University, Arkadelphia, Arkansas; a MEd from Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas; and an EdD from Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas; then worked as a teacher and administrator in the Texas Public School system. Only after retirement could she fulfill the dream of publication.

Brenda and her husband make their home in beautiful East Texas where they enjoy spending time with family and friends, traveling, and working in Bethabara Faith Ministry, Inc. She crafts stories about the extraordinary lives of ordinary people in her favorite place overlooking bird feeders, bird houses, and a variety of blooming trees and flowers. She sincerely thanks all who purchase and read her books. Her desire is that the message in each book will touch the heart of the reader as it did hers in the writing.

A Highland Bride

Book Four

The Highland Treasures SeriesA Highland Bride

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Alistair Munro returns to Scotland after six years of exile in France to find is wife, son, and estate in the hands of another man. Alistair determines to regain his property and child. The beautiful sister of Clan Munro’s chief, a distant cousin to Alistair, attracts his attention and captures his heart; however, Davina must solve conflicting issues before her affections can belong to Alistair. Can the two overcome adverse circumstances to love again?

A Highland Bride, an inspirational Scottish historical romance,is the fourth book in the Highland Treasures series. The series continues in the 16thcentury Scottish Highlands.

A Five Star Review *****

Gripping story of a knight returning from 6 years fighting for France, only to find his handfasted wife married another man and he has taken over his castle, lands and son. He is a member of the Munro clan, and subject to the chief’s orders to stay away from this woman and his son, as the chief wants to maintain peace. Alistair begins training the men and soon leaves for a nearby castle, returning to train the men. As the chief sickens, he chooses Ali to replace him, as his son is satisfied with being 2nd in command at this time. When the chief dies, Alistair takes over his responsibilities.
At the time of Ali’s return, the chief’s sister, Davina, is visiting after her husband’s death. She had asked to return to London, but the chief decides it is too late in the year to attempt such a long journey. Davina is not pleased to have to stay away from the niceties of London she has come to love.
So we have a new widow, not wanting to stay at her brother’s Highland Castle over the winter, and a returning warrior unhappy with the loss of his wife and son. The sparks fly initially as the rough spots in their personalities clash. Despite this, there is an attraction between them that each tries to ignore and eliminate.
We follow this couple and begin hoping they will overcome their reluctance to open their hearts to each other. Events transpire that bring them into close working proximity. Alistair is the first to accept his new feelings for Davina and proposes several times, only to be rejected by Davina.
A snow storm, staying in an Inn, and having the serving girl make suggestive actions and words to Alistair, brings the story to a dramatic high.
I was easily drawn into the story and my interest was kept. This is a clean story, without cursing and overt sexual activity, and does end happily.~Indiana Happy Traveler

A Highland Bride

“There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand.”  Proverbs 19:21

Chapter OneReturning

The North Sea

Scottish Highlands

September, 1519 A.D.

Alistair Munro stood at the bow of the cutter, Nola, watching for a glimpse of Scotland’s shoreline. Salted spray pelted his face, stung his eyes, and wetted his armor.

In a thick Scottish brogue, the captain called above the waves’ roar, “’Tis a storm brewing, sir! Ye should go below! We canna make shore before the hard winds blow.”

Alistair watched the ominous clouds roll across a darkened sky. He gripped the cutter’s bow and watched without heeding the captain’s voice. Rain pummeled his head, ran onto his face, and into the breastplate he wore, making the heavy coat more uncomfortable.

“Sir, ye need to go inside before a swell washes over and knocks ye down. Could even send ye overboard.” The captain paused his commands to Alistair, then barked orders to the crew.

Waves crashed over the ship’s side, causing the knight to grip the railings tighter. Alistair refused to leave the bow without first viewing his homeland. He had spent six years in exile, thinking about Bridget and his son with each passing day. He did not intend to spend another moment away from Scotland.

The cutter seemed to be changing directions. Alistair yelled to the captain, “What’s this? You’re turning away from shore.”

The captain called above the fray, “’Tis too dangerous to go closer. The breakers could carry us against the rocks. We need to stay out to sea until the storm passes.”

“Nae!” Alistair commanded. “Go on into port!”

“Canna do so, sir. ’Tis too dangerous. I’ll no’ risk my crew and ship.” The captain stood his ground. “Ye must go below now. I order ye to leave the bow!”

Wind blew with gale force. Trying to get a glimpse of Scotland was useless in this storm. He took the captain’s advice and slowly made his way down the ladder to the main deck, then below to the cramped quarters where Fergus waited.

Fergus sat on the side of the bunk with his head in his hands and a bucket between his large legs. He looked up when Alistair entered the chamber. “I be sick, Ali.”

Alistair’s heart tendered toward the big man who displayed untold strength in battle and while fighting at the knight’s side, but now sat helpless with seasickness.

Fergus’ one good eye, red and bloodshot, gazed at Ali. Perspiration glistened on his broad forehead. Fergus had proved to be a faithful friend and fierce warrior in the many battles they had fought for Francis I of France before Andrew, Chief of Clan Munro, had obtained both their pardons from the Scottish King James V.

The time Alistair had prayed for these past six years finally arrived and the ship couldn’t sail into port. He sat on a small stool beside his friend.

“Ferg, ’tis time we prayed for deliverance from this storm.” The knight patted the strong back of his friend. Tense muscles rippled beneath his hand. “Lord God of All Creation,” Ali began, “deliver us from this storm so my dear friend and I can go home.” He gave Ferg’s back another pat then rose to pace the small cubicle the best he could without losing his footing.

A roll of the ship sent Alistair against the wall. He removed the uncomfortable armor and hung it on a peg as the ship tossed him against the one table. Fergus retched in the bucket.

“Lord, help us here. We’re about to drown.” Ali’s lips moved in silent prayer while bracing himself with the table.

The roar suddenly seemed to quiet, and the rolling became more gentle. Alistair turned toward his friend who now sat up and wiped his mouth with a soiled rag. Opening the lid of a wooden keg, the knight took a dipper that hung from the side, filled it with stale water, and handed it to the sick warrior.

“Here you go, Ferg. You need to drink now. You’ve lost a lot of fluid.”

Fergus took the dipper as the ship’s steep rolling ceased, and the water stayed inside the cup. He drank deeply then poured the remaining liquid over the rag and wiped his face. “Think I’ll be fine, now the ship stopped its tossing.” He gave Alistair a half-smile and handed the dipper to him.

Alistair rehung the dipper, secured the top on the water keg, opened the door, and headed for the deck ladder. Surely Captain planned to take the Nolainto port now the storm had subsided and the water was calmer. When he reached the top rung, his head popped out into the open air. He took a deep breath. Fergus’s retching made the berth smell like an outhouse. The big man couldn’t help being seasick, but Ali didn’t have to stay in the chamber with the unpleasant odor.

Making his way to the bow, Alistair took up the vigil of watching for the shoreline of Scotland. The knuckles of his hands turned white in the cold salt spray as he gripped the sides of the ship once more.

He watched the now gentle rolling waves and whispered, “Thank you, Lord.”

“We’ll see land soon, sir,” the captain called.

Alistair smiled at the burly man. “Aye, soon, and I’ll be right here when we do.”

The mist lifted and the grey image of a shoreline appeared on the horizon. Alistair swiped at the moisture, or mayhap a tear fogging his sight. Beloved Scotland, his home.

***

The cutter docked beside the quay at the port of Cromarty. Alistair, wearing the armor and carrying his small bundle of possessions, hurried down the gangplank with Fergus following. Ali had no idea what his future held, but kissing the soil of Scotland entered his mind. If the armor were not so unwieldy, he would have done just that. He stood with Fergus by his side, drinking in the flavor of the Scots bustling around and listening to their Scottish brogue. How pleasant to his ears, the sound of those conversations after six years of nothing but French to speak and hear.

“Ali, I dinna see Sir Gavin. Do ye think he forgot?” Fergus questioned, looking around the dock.

“Nae. Dinna fash yourself, Ferg. He’ll be here,” Alistair said, reassuring himself as well as Fergus. “Mayhap he’s in one of the pubs, having himself a pint or two.”

“Or three or four.” The large man looked around spotting the two pubs along the waterfront. “I dinna see his horse, Maith, though.”

“Let’s look in the Silver Fox. He kens the proprietor. I only hope his problems with Torquil Urquhart are settled and he’s no’ in the dungeon of Cromarty Castle.” Ali shook his dark, still damp head. “Gavin has a knack for finding trouble.”

The two men crossed the road, dodged a horse and rider, a loaded wagon pulled by a team of sumpters, and made their way to the pub. They entered the gloomy public room filled with the odor of sweaty men, stale food, and ale. Alistair’s eyes scanned the dingy place. Fergus tapped his shoulder then pointed to a pair seated at a back table engaged in conversation over trenchers of roast mutton and mugs of ale.

A smile broke Ali’s face. “Aye, you may ken the mon’s up to his usual instead of watching for us.”

Making his way to the table, he dodged a serving maid carrying a tray loaded with mugs of ale. She stopped in front of him and flashed a broad smile. He took a tankard as did Fergus.

“May we join the two of you?” Alistair asked as he placed his ale on the table and pulled out a chair.

Gavin looked up, recognized his friend, knocked the chair over when standing, and gave Ali a bear hug. The tankard left Ali’s hand and landed on the floor with a thud, spilling the golden libation all over his armor.

“Saint’s teeth, Gavin. Must your welcome spill my ale?” He tried to sound angry, but a grin broke through the facade as he returned the embrace of his friend.

Gavin pushed away, scrutinizing the warrior. “Are you going into battle, Ali?” He fingered the armor’s breastplate and motioned to the burly warrior who rose to greet the returning Scotsmen. “I guarantee Erskin and I mean you nae harm.”

“The only battle I see is one with you, mon, if you dinna replace my ale.” Ali slapped his friend’s broad back. “I purchased this armor with my own funds and I mean to keep it. Who kens, I may run into a beefy warrior like yourself who needs a lesson or two.”

“’Tis good to see you, mon. Sit and I’ll order some food and drink for you and Fergus.” Gavin reached over to shake Fergus’s hand. “’Tis good to have the two of you home, on Scottish soil once more.”

Ali, Fergus, and Erskin took seats at the table while Gavin ordered food and drink for the new arrivals. The men discussed conditions in Scotland over the meal. Ali and Fergus consumed the food in large mouthfuls and gulped the ale.

“Were you fed in France?” Gavin asked between mouthfuls with the corners of his mouth turning up. “The way you’re eatin’ I’m thinking you may have starved.”

“I’ve had nae roast mutton like this since leaving Scotland six years ago.” Ali gazed into the warm hazel eyes of his friend. The sight of Gavin and Erskin made his heart leap. The two looked older, yet not abated in strength. Gavin’s arms still had the appearance of well honed muscles and Erskin’s arms still looked like limbs from a nearby oak. These men had covered Ali’s back in many fights and battles. And he had covered theirs.

Young James V now ruled with the aid of regents from Stirling Castle, Gavin related. Andrew was able to obtain Alistair’s pardon from the king after his father, who outlawed Ali, died in the Battle of Flodden Field.

“I canna thank the chief enough for pursuing our pardon.” Ali nodded toward Gavin. “How is your brother and Chief of Clan Munro?”

“Andrew is fine now. He lost an eye and gained a limp in the Battle of Flodden, but he’s home and tending to clan business. I’m his legs and help with activities outside of Fàrdach Castle.”

“You mean like chasing reivers and such?” Ali swallowed a large bite then emptied his mug.

Gavin motioned for the serving maid and ordered another round of ale plus helpings of bread pudding for each. He took the opportunity to scrutinize the pub’s patrons.

“By the way, where are the horses you promised?” Ali suddenly remembered Fergus and he were afoot.

“In the stable back of the inn. We’ve been here three days waiting for you. I dinna wish to take a chance on the Urquharts seeing us.” A broad smile covered Gavin’s face. “I think they still hold a grudge from my fight with Young Torquil, but I’m not sticking around to find out.”

“Then let’s eat and go. I’m anxious to see Bridget and my son.” Ali’s heart leapt at the thought of seeing his son who was born soon after he left for France.

Gavin cleared his throat. “About Bridget…”

Alistair stayed the hand headed toward his mouth with a chunk of bread and stared at Gavin. “What about her?”

“She’s remarried. After you left, she had Maighstir Tam annul the handfast.” Gavin gazed at his empty food trencher, avoiding Alistair’s piercing dark eyes.

“Who’s the fortunate mon? Is he a good father to my son?” Alistair’s heart raced and his blood boiled at the thought of another man raising the lad. “I ken I’ve been away for a long time, but I wrote to Bridget often. She sent one missive informing me of Blane’s birth.”

“’Tis the way of women, Alistair. Most are fickle, that is most beside Flora and Maidie. Those ladies are rare jewels.” Gavin smiled when he spoke of his wife, Flora, and Andrew’s lady, Maidie. “Took a lot of convincing to get Flora back after being away for five years, and ’twill be the same for you.”

“Flora wasn’t married when you returned from your adventures in the New World. Bridget is married, or so you say. Who is the mon?” Alistair swallowed around a large lump in his throat and drained his mug.

Gavin finished his ale also. “He is Struan Sutherland. I ken little about him as he stays close to Contullich Castle.” Gavin slammed the mug on the oak plank. “’Tis time to go. Erskin, if you and Fergus will fetch the horses, I’ll settle our bill.” He pushed back from the table, rose, and walked to the pub’s owner who stood behind the bar.

Alistair walked to the front door that opened to a cool ocean breeze. The refreshing salty air washed across his face and brushed the armor, cooling the metal links. The serving maid bumped against his arm when she passed with a tray of ale for two newly arrived patrons. She flashed the knight a broad smile showing white teeth. Her eyes danced with teasing. Ali returned the smile, but moved away. He had no time for frivolous flirtations.

Gavin settled the debt with the proprietor and motioned for Alistair who joined him by the storeroom door. The two passed through bags of grain, flour, and barrels of spirits. One barrel was stamped with the word WHISKY, making him wish for a shot of good Scotch whisky after six years of French wine and ale.

Grabbing his arm and pulling him toward the outside door, Gavin shook his head. “Now’s no’ the time to eye the whisky barrel.”

The two men made their way outside to the horses. Erskin and Fergus were ahorse on two fine steuds. Two others stood ready. Gavin gave one that favored Maith, his warhorse from six years past, a pat on the nose then mounted. The horse remaining for Alistair looked to be a fine chesten gelding with a black mane. Large bright eyes followed the knight when he climbed astride.

“His name is, Brody. He’s from Andrew’s stable of steuds. The chief personally chose him for you,” Gavin said.

Ali patted the silky neck. Brody neighed in return. “He’s a fine one, he is. I must thank Andrew properly.”

“You can thank him in a couple of days. I have orders to bring you to Fàrdach Castle first. Then you can take care of this business with Bridget.” Gavin turned his horse toward the open lane.

“I want to see my son, first,” Alistair complained.

“Andrew’s orders. He has important news for you,” he called while spurning Maith to an open gallop.

The others followed and soon the streets of Cromarty gave way to the open road dotted with runrigs now brown with the stubble left from barley harvest. Shaggy Highland cattle and sheep grazed in green pastures separated by hedge rows and large trees. Alistair’s heart leapt with the welcomed sights of his homeland. While in France serving with Louis’ army and bivouacked under the stars, he imagined the same celestial bodies shining over Scotland. Several times he had seen the Northern Lights in winter skies over his home country, but not in France. Hopefully, they would return this winter with their green and purple hues spreading across the night skies, truly a sight to behold. The biting wind said winter would soon be upon the land.

***

She stood in the chief’s well-appointed library of Fàrdach Castle. Davina had sought Andrew concerning her desire to return to London.

“But Davina, you just came from London. Now you wish to return, unescorted.” Andrew’s voice reached the high pitch of anger. “I’ll no’ fund another journey. Too, traveling to London is too hazardous this time of year. Your elderly aunt is wintering at Dunrobin Castle, and you may reside with her if you wish, but you must stop this whining.”

Her brother’s one good eye shot arrows of fury into her, and she felt certain the black patched one shot the same missiles. Andrew, Chief of Clan Munro, stood his ground. No amount of begging would change his mind, but she must try. Scotland and Fàrdach Castle this time of year sent waves of depression coursing through her very being. Daylight hours shortened until darkness covered the land. Snow and icy rain never ceased. Chills racked her body in spite of roaring wood fires in great fireplaces and peat fires in braziers throughout the castle.

“I dinna wish to spend the winter in Dunrobin Castle. ’Tis worse than Fàrdach with its cold and chill,” she retorted and closed her eyes, waiting for Andrew’s slap to her cheek.

His voice softened. “Open your eyes, Davina. I’ll no’ strike you as did your husband. I’ve never struck a woman in anger and shan’t begin now, but I also dinna take kindly to backtalk from anyone. You must obey my orders while you reside here.”

“’Tis the point, brother. I wish no’ to reside here.” She couldn’t help but say the last word.

Andrew took the distance between them and wrapped still strong warrior arms around her, pulling her close. “Must you always have the last word, lass? I love you and only have your best interest at heart. ’Tis why I say you canna make the journey alone, and I canna spare the men to accompany you. Also, winter is upon us making travel in the Highlands almost impossible.”

She buried her head on his chest. Unabashed tears flowed, wetting her brother’s saffronleine. Of course Andrew was right. He sent members of his luchd-taighe or armed guard to fetch her from London when Edward died of a fever, leaving her alone, but reivers were about while all stayed inside beside warm fires. Winter was their treasured time to steal cattle.

Andrew stroked her hair while she cried. “Come now, sister.” He held Davina at arm’s length, searching her wet eyes, then reached with a calloused thumb and brushed the tears away. “Maidie will be most happy with your company this winter. There is plenty to keep you busy helping her with the castle duties while she’s big with our third bairn, and then his arrival around Christmastime.” A smile broke his solemn face when he spoke of the babe.

Davina returned his gaze. She couldn’t stop her mouth from turning up at the corners also. “How do you ken the bairn’s a he?”

Andrew’s smile broadened. “I feel it in my bones.”

Davina’s head shook at the thought. “Your bones are old and arthritic, they feel a lot of things.”

“I ken in my heart this bairn will be the last babe for Maidie and me, and he will be a man of God. Not like his brother, Willie, who will lead the clan. My days on this earth are fast coming to an end.”

Her brother’s words caused Davina to step back and search his face. “Brother, how can you say such a thing? You’re still a fine, strong warrior and leader of our clan. I feel strength in your arms.”

A winsome smile crossed Andrew’s face. “A mon kens such things, Sister. ’Tis why I desire you to stay in Scotland and let me find you a suitable husband here, in your homeland.”

“Nae, I want to find my own husband.” Davina pushed away from Andrew, turned, and made her way to the door. Looking back before leaving the room, she said, “And I want to find him in London.”

Davina opened the door then slammed it shut. How exasperating this brother of hers.He ruled Clan Munro with an iron fist and tried to do the same with her. She would not have him dominating her life and making her stay in Scotland. She planned to put all of her energies into finding a way back to London. Mayhap she could convince Maidie, then Andrew’s wife could in turn, alter her husband’s mind. Davina made her way to the nursery on the third floor where she hoped to find her sister-in-law.

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