Highlander's Guardian (Highlander Heat #4)

“You dinnae wish for Murdock and I to stay?”


“Nay, the king’s men are well aware they’re searching for two of our clansmen, and though you are no’ known as Malcolm and Munroe, if they find you, they may well decide your presence here in the city is proof enough to throw you into the cells. I also need your sword arm on the journey back to Duart. I want my wife to have our full protection.”

“Your wife?” Ian cocked a brow. “About time. My congratulations.”

“You have mine too,” Murdock added with a grin. “That is one union we need to celebrate.”

“Which we will, on our return to MacLean land.” Colin stood. “We leave immediately.”

Aye, the sooner he had Annie back behind Duart’s walls, the sooner he’d be able to breathe without his fear for her his constant companion.



Colin was gone? Annie dressed and hurried into the great hall in the hopes of finding him amongst those breaking their fast. His side of the mattress had been stone cold, as if he’d left her bed some hours before, but that couldn’t be. He wouldn’t leave without first speaking to her.

She entered the great hall and searched the crowded room. A feast had been laid out and the trestle tables overflowed with platters of cooked meat, boiled eggs and bread. She sidestepped around the perimeter, hands clasped in her sapphire skirts, but Colin was nowhere to be seen.

“Annie, there you are.” James strode toward her, looking hearty and hale in tan breeches and a rich brown silk doublet over a white tunic, his red hair a mass of unruly curls.

“James, you look well. When did you return?”

“Late last eve, although I’ve heard gossip this morn which we need to speak about.” He extended his arm. “I need a word in private.”

“Of course.” She took his arm. “Mayhap outside?”

“Aye, after being stuck indoors for days, I could use the fresh air.” He guided her through the balcony doors, down the short flight of stairs and along the stone path surrounded by thick lavender bushes. “There is much we need to speak about.”

“Did you hear about my news?” A gust blew and made her hair tickle her face.

He tucked the strands behind her ear. “If you’re speaking of Hugh and his abduction, then my men informed me. I dinnae condone his actions, but Hugh has been reckless of late, particularly since his wife’s death.” He walked toward a rose arbor with a wooden slatted seat underneath it and motioned for her to sit. “I also heard you’d spoken handfast vows with Colin MacLean. Tell me that isnae true.”

“’Tis true.” She sat and faced him, her hands folded in her lap. “Which means I’m sure you’ll understand why I must say nay to your proposal.”

“The MacLeans of Duart are trouble and Colin MacLean more than any of them.” Looking into her eyes, he took her hands in his callused ones. “Annie, a handfast isnae as binding as a marriage and the vows can easily be broken. Did you speak them for fear of what had happened between us? That you remained unchaperoned at the tavern?”

“I was worried rumors would surface, but that’s no’ the reason I bound myself to Colin.”

“I’d never have spoken against you.” His gaze pleaded her understanding. “I’m naught like my cousin, and my offer still stands. Is there any possibility you might be persuaded to join with me? Together we could form an unwavering alliance.”

“You were kind to me while I stayed at Dunscaith, and for that I’ll always be grateful, but I am very happy with the man I’ve chosen.” Or she would be if she could find him.

“I fear you’ve made your decision too fast. I certainly wasnae given the opportunity to—”

“James MacDonald!” Colin, his face thunderously dark, stormed down the path. “Get your hands off my wife.”

“Colin, nay. It isnae as it seems.” She dived between the men as they came at each other and shoved one hand against each of their heaving chests.

“He was touching you, Annie.” Colin swung her in behind him, raised his sword and glared at James. “What is it with you MacDonalds that you cannae leave what’s no’ yours alone?”

“You cannae speak. She’s your ward, and now you’ve taken advantage of her.”

“Please, let’s discuss this like rational adults.” She gripped Colin’s sword arm, his very immoveable sword arm. Oh goodness. He had to listen to her. “Colin, put your weapon down. James means neither of us any harm. He does no’ even raise his blade.”

James grunted and eyed her. “You truly care for him?”

“With all my heart.” She smiled even in the tense moment. “I’m so sorry, James. The only man I ever wish to wed is the one you see afore you.”

“Damn it,” James grumbled, his palm firm on his belted sword hilt.

“James, I’m most grateful for your friendship, but that’s all I’ll ever seek from you. Please, I hope you can understand.”