Page 98 of Desire's Ransom
Ryland knew Temair had run away the night her sister died. He could guess her father had mistreated her. But he didn’t realize the woodkerns feared her husband might do the same.
“I would never hurt Temair,” he told them. “You can be assured of that.”
“And why should we believe ye?” blond Niall asked. “Ye lied to us about the ransom.”
Ryland swallowed guiltily. “I did. But that was before I knew who she was, before I knew you were much more than just a band of common outlaws.”
“And now?” Friar Brian arched a brow. “Why should we trust ye now?”
Ryland raised his head. “Because I love her.” It was cathartic to say it aloud. “I love Temair.”
“Anoutlaw?”Warin couldn’t resist blurting out.
“That’s right,” Ryland said, “and I couldn’t be more proud.”
Then he decided he was done defending himself. These were his men, after all. They answered to him.
“Enough talk. I need to find Temair. Adam. Cambeal. You’re in charge. Make peace. When you’ve done that…Friar, will you lead them all to the camp?”
Friar Brian nodded.
“Where are you going, m’lord?” Warin asked.
“I’m going to prove my worth to my bride.”
With that, Ryland let go of the hounds’ collars and loped after them as they followed Temair’s scent.
