Page 59 of Captured By the Cruel Highlander
Freya cackled at that idea, and Emily opened the door as the two women made their way into the castle’s underbelly.
Emily had been grateful to be able to forget her troubles for a few precious hours, but as the night closed in on her, she was reminded that her future remained as uncertain as ever.
21
Adam woke up the following morning feeling drained.
He must have had two hours of sleep, tossing and turning all night, his mind filled with thoughts of Emily.
He lay in bed for a little time, aware that it was only just after dawn. He had drunk too much wine with Doughall after Emily hadn’t appeared for dinner and could feel his blood pumping between his ears.
He groaned.
How could she nae wish to eat together anymore?
Adam understood she was angry with him for what he had said on the way back to the castle, but her behavior puzzled him. Most prospective brides would at least wish to save face with the groom’s mother and stay in her good graces.
Emily seemed to have no such concerns and refused to leave her room, even after Adam had sent for her twice and delayed their supper by half an hour. He couldn’t even muster the anger he should have felt—he was impressed by her audacity.
He threw off the covers and stomped about his room, already in a foul mood, and the sun hadn’t even fully risen yet.
A few minutes later, he emerged from his bedchamber to find Theo waiting for him. They fell into step beside one another as his man-at-arms rattled through the clan business that was pertinent for the day.
“Have the Young family been contacted?” Adam asked, his irritation rising as he thought of Emily’s interference with the council.
“Aye, M’Laird, but they have not yet responded. ”
“Send another personal message from me and ask them to come to the castle as soon as they are able. I ken it is a long journey, but it will be worth their while.”
“Of course, M’Laird,” Theo said. “Will ye be travelin’ today?”
“I might ride with Doughall, but just to the nearby lands. I willnae be needin’ yer services until later.”
“Very good, M’Laird. And Lady Emily?”
“She can do as she pleases,” he growled.
“Very good, M’Laird,” Theo repeated in that infuriating tone.
Adam stopped in his tracks and sighed. “I apologize if I’ve been short with ye lately.”
“I am used to it, M’Laird.”
Adam frowned at the man’s slight smile and shrugged. “Have ye seen the little pixie anywhere? I havenae caught a glimpse of her since yesterday mornin’.”
“I understand she has been assistin’ Lady Freya in the library, M’Laird.”
“With what?”
“Books, M’Laird. Some people read them from time to time.”
Adam glowered at him. “I have read books before, Theo,” he retorted.
“Of course, M’Laird.”
“And ye can stopM’Lairdingme.”
“Aye, M’Laird,” Theo replied, a thin smile on his lips.
