Page 121 of The Highlander's Princess Bride
“I understand. But Victoria is also—or will shortly be—a Kendrick, and one ofourown. Every one of my brothers would give his life for her.”
Including Logan.
He mentally frowned at that jarring thought before turning his attention back to Edie.
“I’m happy to hear it, because if you ever injured Victoria in any way, our family—including me—would tear you limb from limb, Nicholas. Literally,” she finished.
He almost laughed at the contrast between her cheery delivery and the bloodthirsty vow. “That would hardly be the action of a loving family member.”
“You haven’t spent much time with my extended family—although yours is quite lively too. My servants are still repairing the mess your brother made at my Hogmanay party.”
Nick winced. Grant had overindulged a wee bit on New Year’s Eve, and Edie’s morning room had taken the brunt of the damage.
“Sorry about that,” he said. “And you can be sure the lad is paying for the damages.”
“He’s already paid Alec five guineas and promised to perform any errands or tasks my husband thinks appropriate.”
Alec, who’d been talking to Royal, switched his attention to their conversation. “Please don’t remind me about that blasted party. The memory still gives me nightmares.”
“Don’t be ridiculous,” Edie scoffed. “Nothing gives you nightmares.”
“The resulting bills did.”
“I understand entirely,” Nick said dryly.
Alec laughed. “Actually, old man, it wasn’t that bad. And Grant has been a great help to me these last few days. I’ve been shorthanded at the Glasgow manor house since my old steward retired a few weeks ago. Your brother has been quite helpful in lending a hand with some estate business.”
“Er, I’m happy to hear that.” Nick glanced at his brother, deep in conversation with Angus. Both twins had seemed more mature of late, perhaps finally growing up.
“Your brothers are all fine men,” Edie said. “They simply needed a little guidance.”
“Beyond my own,” Nick said ruefully.
“Victoria has made tremendous strides with you lot, I must say.” Alec forked up a piece of beef and thoughtfully chewed it. “Best make sure you take care of her, Arnprior,” he added after he swallowed.
“Not to worry, Gilbride. Your wife has already leveled the appropriate threats.”
“That’s my girl,” Alec said, holding his glass up for a refill.
“You outdid yourself with that ring, Nicholas,” Edie said. “I’m pea green with envy.”
Alec heaved a sigh. “Sweetheart, if you wanted a pearl ring, all you had to do was ask.”
Edie’s eyebrows arched up over the gold frames of her spectacles. “The point is tosurpriseme with something that shows how much you adore me, you silly man. Haven’t you learned that yet?”
“Better come up with something good, old fellow,” Nick said. “Or else.”
“Edie won’t have long at all to wait before I comeupwith something very good.” Alec gave his wife a comic leer.
She tried to look stern. “Good God. Behave yourself, Alasdair Gilbride.”
Nick leaned back in his chair, enjoying their banter. Soon, he’d share that same sort of pleasing intimacy with Victoria. He would always feel sadness over Janet’s unhappy life and death and would never fully recover from the loss of Cam. But, for the first time in years, he’d regained something he’d thought lost to him forever.
He’d regained a sense of hope.
“So, Arnprior,” Alec said. “When do you and Victoria tie the knot?”
“We haven’t really had a chance to discuss our plans.”
