Cameron smiled, his whole face lighting up. “I’m happy to provide ye an excuse any time ye need it.”
*
Ailis rode besideLachlan through the glens and hills of the Scottish countryside. The hazy sun cast a warm glow, dappling the fields with light and shadow. Lachlan had arranged this excursion so they could have time to truly speak to one another.
“Ye ride well, Ailis,” Lachlan called over his shoulder.
“Thank ye,” she replied, feeling the weight of their growing connection. Truth be told, she had stronger feelings for Lachlan than she did for Cameron. Much stronger feelings. Yet Cameron seemed safe to her while Lachlan felt just a bit dangerous. She could easily lose her heart to Lachlan. “I’m surprised ye were able to take time from yer duties to ride with me.”
“Sometimes we must make time for things that are important to us. And ye are important.”
“Have ye spoken with me father?”
“Aye. He doesnae mind if we spend time together.”
“Good. Then we shall enjoy that time.” Ailis’s heart raced a bit at her father’s approval. It was what she’d wanted so much…before meeting Cameron anyway.
*
Ailis stood byCameron among kilted warriors and cheering clansmen. There was an archery contest, and they watched it closely.
“Och,” she cried. “I could best every one of them with me knife.”
Cameron chuckled. “I’ve heard tell of yer knife-throwing. Are ye as good as they say? Do ye think ye can best me?”
Ailis smiled. “Is that a challenge?”
Cameron nodded.
Ailis smiled, nodding, while her thoughts lingered on Lachlan.
Ailis stepped forward with poise. She sent the blade sailing into the target’s bullseye with a steady hand. The crowd erupted in applause.
“Ye have a talent that rivals yer wit,” Cameron gushed.
“Thank ye,” Ailis replied, smiling mischievously. She accepted praise with humility but her inner turmoil continued. Her place among the McAfee clan carried expectations. It was obvious by Cameron’s face that he still believed he could best her. It weighed on her shoulders heavily.
Cameron took his turn, and he came close, but he could not hit the center of the target as she had. “I must concede to yer greater skill.”
Ailis grinned at him, but she saw a spark of something in his eyes that surprised her. He was truly angry she’d beaten him! That was so unlike Cameron.
He bowed to her quickly. “I must return to care for me grandparents.”
“Have a good day,” she murmured, watching him go. She couldn’t help but wonder if he’d stay away now that he realized she could best him with a knife. She wasn’t sure if she wished hewould stay away so her decision would be easier, or if she wished he would return.
*
The skies abovethe McAfee lands grew dark, forecasting a storm. Ailis and Cameron wandered through the gardens, their conversation meandering like a gentle stream. The scent of damp earth announced the impending rain.
“Do ye know the story of old when the sky cried for parted lovers?” Cameron asked playfully.
Ailis hummed softly. “Aye, it’s as if even the heavens cannae bear the sight of heartache.”
Raindrops began to fall as they walked. Suddenly, a downpour engulfed them, driving them to seek shelter beneath an ancient oak tree.
“Here we are at the mercy of the storm.” Ailis smiled despite her damp cheeks.
“Mercy, or perhaps fate?” Cameron mused, watching her wipe away water droplets.