Page 66 of Bride of the Wicked Laird
He took a deep breath, pondering this. He needed time to let it all fall into place so he could decide on a plan. What he would not do, was tell this story to Davina.
Jacob looked at him questioningly.
Everard took out the purse and counted out the coins he’d promised, plus two more as a reward for Jacob’s success. “I thank ye and I am obliged fer yer discretion. Nay one save ye and meself will ken any of this tale.”
He left the tinker and made his way through the village, his eyes raking the crowd unsure of who it was he sought but, somehow, certain he’d ken the man if he saw him. He entered the tavern where the others were waiting. The landlord placed a tankard of ale before him.
Maxwell regarded him with a puzzled expression.
“What is it, braither?” His voice was low enough that Davina and Aileen who were going over the contents Davina’s basked, were unable to hear. “Ye’re as white as a salted cod. Did ye receive bad news?”
“I cannae say if ‘tis bad news or nae. I’ve learned some of Davina’s story, which I’ll tell ye in good time.”
Maxwell nodded, clearly aware that whatever news Everard had received, was not for Davina’s ears.
“One thing I am certain of,” Everard muttered. “We must find Dùghall Mackinnon without delay.”
“Ah.” Maxwell gave a knowing nod. “I’ll go now and ask our taverner tae keep his eye out fer the man.”
Everard raised his tankard and took a long draft. “He can spread the word among the villagers. If anyone sees him, he’s tae send him at once tae Kiessimul.”
Davina turned from Aileen and smiled at him. “Ye’re very serious me laird, did ye receive bad news from yer business?”
Captured by the sparkle in her eyes and the pink flush in her cheeks he returned her smile. She brushed back a wayward strand of auburn hair from her forehead and, suddenly, all he could think of was those enchanting lips on his.
“Nay, Mistress Davina. On the contrary, I received news that has set me pondering.”
In fact, the news he’d received had settled his intention to make DavinaMacKinnonhis. Only when she was the bride ofthe MacNeil could he be certain she would never fall into the clutches of the evil man who she believed was her father.
CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE
Davina enjoyed supper in the solar even though Everard seemed preoccupied and paid little attention to the light chatter between herself, Aileen and Maxwell. They had discussed the new garden being constructed at their grand, house, and she was happy to be able to offer her knowledge of gardening and plants.
She regarded Everard curiously. He gazed into the fire as if his mind was in some distant place. No doubt he was preoccupied with the coming meeting of the Clan Council. He’d said little, only that it was necessary to let them know what had taken place when her father had kidnapped her. When she’d protested, fearing their condemnation, he explained that the Council needed to be aware of any hostile action within the Clan lands.
“Ye’ve naught tae fear, me sweet. ‘Tis Murchadh MacKinnon that will earn their condemnation.
She accepted this warily. He still appeared unduly fash’d about the meeting scheduled for the morrow.
Aileen caught her attention. “I cannae help but admire yer earbobs, Davina”.
Davina smiled. Warming to a compliment came more easily these days. “Thank ye, Aileen, they are, indeed, beautiful.”
Not only had she purchased the carved ivory pair that had first taken her fancy, but she’d also chosen a pair made of lapis in a deep, crystalline blue that matched her kirtle. She glanced at Everard, hoping he’d noticed. Alas, he was focused again on the leaping flames in the fireplace, lost in thought.
It was not long before Maxwell drew the evening to a close. “I am ready fer me bed.” He cast Aileen a meaningful glance that brought a flush to her cheeks. “Tomorrow we’ll need our wits about us tae deal with the Council, Braither. Methinks we’ll find them reluctant tae co-operate, as they’ll be nursing resentment at being called fer another meeting so soon.”
Everard nodded his acknowledgment.
“I’ll meet wi’ ye early in the morrow before the meeting. I have much tae discuss wi’ ye.”
Davina rose to her feet as Maxwell and Aileen departed.
“’Tis time I also was abed, me laird.” She gathered the sleeping Feather from her lap and placed herin her basket.
Everard’s attention turned to her.
“Forgive me fer appearing a little distracted this evening, Mistress Davina. I’m afeared I’ve been giving too much thought tae the Council meeting. Will ye permit me tae escort ye tae yer cottage?” He looked at her with dark eyes. “I wish tae make certain of yer safety.”
