Page 11 of Deception

“Nearly two years. I entered her brother’s household in anticipation of her return from the convent.”

“That was just two years ago, if I recall.”

Linnae nodded. “Aye. She became so unmanageable, the sisters insisted she be sent home.”

Jacob grimaced. “Her brother couldn’t have been pleased.”

Linnae shrugged. “He wasn’t. But, in truth, it mattered little. He was seldom home.”

“Aye.” Jacob gave a slow nod. “David likes warring.”

“And whoring,” Linnae added.

Jacob looked sharply at her. “Ye are a cheeky wench, I see.”

She gave him a sheepish look. “I suppose it is uncharitable for me to point out his faults. It’s just…”

Jacob lifted a brow in question.

“Well, he has so many—faults, that is. He cared nothing for his sister. She was alone most of the time. And when he was home, he gave feasts for his friends—who were oftentimes very rude to Lady Alison.”

“A brother should care for his sister,” Jacob said. “Lady Alison was fortunate to have such a brave friend such as you.”

“Brave?” she repeated.

“My lady, a woman who threatens to kill me with a knife is brave.”

She grimaced. “I am sorry. I didnae know who ye were.”

“You were right to protect yourself, lass. For my part, I find it much more impressive that ye faced Sophie and Lady Innis.”

Linnae couldn’t prevent a laugh. “I must admit, they frightened me even more than you did.”

His expression sobered. “I am sorry I frightened ye, love.”

Her stomach did a somersault. Love? She shook her head. “There was no way to avoid it.” Thankfully, her voice remained level.

He regarded her. “Tell me about yourself.”

She shrugged. “I am an orphan. I have vague memories that come to me in my dreams sometimes, but I never knew my parents. When I was five, a woman who called herself my aunt sent me to Glenwood Abbey.”

His brow furrowed. “That is a refuge for homeless girls, aye? Under the protection of the Donalds.”

She stiffened. “I am a Donald, and grew up in Donald territory, but, as I told ye before, that doesnae mean I had anything to do with the attack on the carriage. Are ye sure it was the Donalds who attacked?”

“Aye, lass. I recognized their colors.”

Had the men worn Donald colors? She thought back, but couldn’t remember. They’d been too far away to distinguish between the MacKinnon plaid, which had more green, and the Donald, which had more red.

“How did they know Lady Alison was traveling home?” But as soon as the words left her mouth, she knew. Malcolm Donald had spies all over Skye. Guilt stabbed. Should she tell him about Malcolm? If she did, he was sure to think she was involved. If she didn’t, might something else happen?

“I dinnae know,” he replied. “But I plan to find out.

A long silence drew out between them. Stars began to twinkle in the twilight sky and the air chilled.

“What ruby necklace was Lady Innis asking about?” Jacob finally asked.

“In Lady Alison’s satchel is the ruby necklace Lady Alison’s grandmother gave her, and the wedding band she was going to give ye on your wedding day.” She regarded him. “Why were you betrothed to Lady Alison?”