Page 81 of Her Accidental Highlander Husband

Mari let out a breath. She hadn’t been fair to him. He’d only wanted to share in her worries. She wasn’t used to such a thing from a husband.

Unfortunately, what worried her was something she needed to take care of on her own.

…

Cam arrived at the McInnis castle on a bright, sunny day. The salty smell of the sea put a smile on his face as he greeted the laird and explained the reason for his visit.

While he was greeted warmly, the McInnis laird made no promises that they’d be able to strike an accord. In fact, during the evening meal, the McInnis laird began to explain the predicament of their small port.

“I fear we’ve not an easy access, despite being so close to the water.” He went on to tell how a large portion of a cliff had fallen into the sea and cut off the small beach. They’d not yet found a way to navigate around the new obstacle and he was doubtful it would ever be feasible for more than small vessels.

Cam was almost glad for the news, for it meant he’d be able to start his return to Dunardry the next morning. But he knew Lach would be disappointed if he didn’t try to come up with another way to make it work. So, the next morning they went down to the water to see the devastation. As the laird had said, large boulders and rocks filled what once had been a modest harbor.

The McInnis shook his head in despair as Cam studied the line of rocks. None were of the same height, but the shortest one was of fair size. He reckoned the others could be cut down to match, then the stone that was cut away could be used to fill the gaps.

Before he realized it, he’d opened his mouth and started talking.

“It would be similar to a curtain wall,” he clarified. “You’d need to pile up the rock in the crevices so it would provide support against the force of the sea even during storms. You’re protected here, but you’ll want to plan for the worst nature has to offer.”

An hour later, Cam had requested paper and had drawn out formal plans for their path to the sea.

“With a taper here toward the shore, you’d be able to ride carriages and wagons right up on the wall to aid in loading cargo.” Cam walked the laird to the best place to start the structure.

The McInnis followed, making comments and pointing out things as they went. When Cam was done explaining his plan, the man looked a bit overwhelmed.

“This will not be an easy feat,” the laird said. “Especially with the reduction to our coffers because we’ve been unable to trade. We also lost ships and some good men.” The man grimaced. “But it sounds like it can be done, and doing so will give us back our freedom. When we’re on solid ground again, I’ll be sure to reach out to the MacKinlay to see if we can come to an agreement. Thank you for your help.”

Cam and McInnis clasped arms to solidify the future possibilities. They were leaving the coast for the village when they were approached by a half dozen British soldiers.

“What may we do for you?” McInnis asked with a slight edge to show his displeasure with their intrusion on his lands.

“We’re looking for this woman. It’s thought she might try to board a ship. There’s a reward of one hundred pounds sterling for her capture.”

McInnis smiled. “That would certainly help us pay for our repairs.” He laughed and took the notice.

Cam remained calm despite being able to see Mari’s likeness from where he stood. This was worse than he’d ever imagined.

“My, a duchess wanted for murder,” the McInnis murmured. “You sure do breed your women to be malicious in London.”

“She is a Scot, sir,” the sergeant pointed out, which drew a scowl from the laird.

“Are you traveling all the coast of Scotland?” Cam asked the sergeant.

“Yes, three squads have been dispatched to visit all ports. We’ll find her soon enough.”

Cam hoped desperately that wasn’t true.

Chapter Thirty

“Might I have a word with you, my lord?” Mari hovered by Lachlan’s door. “Kenna is well, that’s not why I’m here,” she added when his face went pale. The poor man had watched over Kenna for days, only to see she was fine and had only needed to eat when she’d fainted.

Mari’s brother-by-marriage looked surprised at the request, but he nodded and stood to help her to her seat like a gentleman.

“What can I do for you today, sister?”

She smiled at his words. Despite his not-so-welcoming greeting that first day, Lachlan had since made her feel as though she were truly part of his family.

“I’m afraid I’ve come to ask a favor of you.”