Highlander's Faerie (Highlander Heat #5)

“In a way that can never last.”


“I willnae take things further with you unless you wish it. I give you my word on that. I’m no rogue.”

“I need some time to think through all that my mother has said.”

“Then take that time, but this afternoon, we will talk more.” He dropped a kiss on the top of her head and left, his last glance over his shoulder, a smoldering one.

The heat in his golden gaze spoke of promises she longed to accept, to claim for herself. If only she’d always lived in this time. No matter what her mother said, his future was set.





Chapter 3


Katherine shed her nightrail and stepped into the tub. After sinking into the glorious water, she lazed her head on the rim and relaxed with a heartfelt sigh. She needed this moment, to consider all her options. Traveling to her MacLean kin on Mull and seeing to the fae’s request was paramount. The mission given to her by the little folk had to come first.

She stroked the amulet at her neck. Mary’s talisman, now hers to hold, would provide the safe passage she needed. Only how could she change John’s mind about coming with her?

The water cooled and she picked up the soap and lathered it. She went under then emerged and worked soap bubbles through her hair. Done, she dipped and rinsed again

“Katherine?” A knock sounded on the door. “’Tis Mary. John sent me to sit with you. He worries.”

“Come in, Mary.”

Mary bustled in wearing a billowy burgundy gown, her riot of red-gold curls swaying forward over her distended belly, her baby now due in only a few more weeks. Slowly, she eased into the navy padded corner armchair, stretched her legs and wriggled her slippered feet. “So, what have you done to cause poor John to worry this day?”

“He worries because last night I was drawn to the circle and once I slipped inside, one of the fae spoke to me.” Leaning closer to Mary, she rested her arms on the rim. “I’ve been instructed to wear your amulet and to journey to Mull. Apparently I’m to bring some peace between the clans.”

“Oh, I see.” A frown marred her brow. “Then ’tis no wonder he worries. So many times I’ve stood inside the circle and wished for peace between my clans. The war that rages breaks my heart, and now you and Marie are here at a time when things are so unstable.” She rubbed her belly then rose to her feet. “The babe kicks up a storm this morn. ’Tis difficult to sit still for long.”

“Would going for a walk help to ease your discomfort?”

“Aye. Some fresh air and movement would help.” Massaging her back, Mary waddled back and forth across the room.

“Give me a minute to get dressed and we’ll go for a walk together.” She set the soap aside as she stepped out of the water then grabbed the drying cloth and patted herself dry.

“When I left John below in the great hall, he was busy rousing a party of warriors to search the woods. He insisted every inch be scoured for MacLeans. Do you know what that might be about?”

“I take it you asked him but he didn’t wish to worry you?” She donned her pink silk bra and panties, a sark, then eased the teal gown over her head. The soft folds shimmered down her hips and swished to her ankles. She laced the front stays to the top of the square-cut neckline trimmed with a lacy ribbon, then slid her feet into the matching slippers.

“Aye, he’s a stubborn lout, as are all men.”

She laughed as she picked up a brush, separated her hair into sections and combed. “Oh Mary, we are kindred spirits. I couldn’t agree more.”

“Mount up and prepare to leave.” John’s order rumbled through the open window.

Katherine hurried across. Below in the courtyard, twenty or so MacDonald warriors mounted their horses while an equal number wearing green, red and blue plaids raced under the arch and down the trail to the sea-gate. John led the group heading toward the birlinn moored at the stone landing while a redheaded lad ran to keep up with his fast stride. James. Mary’s eldest son was only ten yet was always in the thick of things

John leaped on board and offered James a steadying hand as he bounded in after him.

Mary peered over Katherine’s shoulder. “Since John is taking my son with him, his mission cannae be too dangerous.”

“He’s only looking for one man, so no, it shouldn’t be.”

Mary squeezed her arm. “Please tell me what this is all about, or I shall go mad with wonder.”

“Last night I had a dream, or I should say a vision. A MacLean warrior by the name of Finlay abducted me. Now John has decided to take every precaution and search for him.”