Page 19 of The Lass and the Laird

He sat and watched helplessly as his best friend walked out with Meredith. He'd made a huge mistake. It was obvious up until that moment Meredith had no idea who he was.

"Something has happened between the two of you?" Elsbeth leaned forward, an eyebrow raised.

"Yes, Ian and I have been friends for a long time, but he still annoys me to no end." Declan attempted to distract her.

"Not Ian. I spoke of Lady Stuart."

"I believe the lady dislikes me."

"What I saw on her face was not dislike. What I saw was a deep hurt." Elsbeth picked up a piece of cheese and plopped it into her mouth. "Whatever you did, it will be a long time before she will be willing to speak to you."

The blonde lass seemed to enjoy his discomfort. A playful, impish smile lifted the corners of her mouth as she awaited his reply. A perfect woman for Ian. He was sure they were attracted to each other. Of course, it would not come to pass unless her father agreed, which would be hard since Ian was not titled.

"I lied to her," he admitted. "About who I was. She thought me a simple farmer. You would think she'd be glad to finally realize who I am."

Her eyes narrowed. "To realize you are a liar laird? Why would that make her glad?"

The impact of her words made him flinch. "You are correct. Excuse me, Lady McNeil. I see Ian heads back." He stood, not sure where to go. At the moment, it was probably best to give Meredith some time.

"How is she?" Declan met Ian halfway from the entryway. "Will she remain?"

"I don't believe she will. She’s asked for a messenger to send for guardsmen to escort her back. Refused our own.” Ian scratched at his jaw. "She was close to tears, but held them back. She's a brave lass."

"I've made a mess of things. The McNeil lass just called me a liar. I imagine she'll be leaving next."

Declan let out a deep breath. "What should I do? I am too foolish to be laird, have shirked my responsibilities. Lied to the one woman I want more than any and now look bad in the eyes of the McNeil's daughter, who will, no doubt, report back to her father."

His friend's eyes were warm when meeting his. "There have been too many changes so soon after becoming laird. I will speak to Elsbeth and ensure she keeps her opinion of you to herself. You have months to regain control as laird. As far as Lady Meredith, I suggest you give her time before attempting to speak to her."

"You said her brother is eager to marry her off. What if he moves forward with it?"

"Perhaps you can meet with the brother and tell him to give Meredith time. Explain your intentions. If you have them." Ian waited for his reply.

"I have intentions."

"Of marriage?"

"Of what else would they be?" he snapped.

"With you, I'm not always so sure." Ian chuckled and went to seek out Elsbeth.

The following weeks passed quickly. Declan gained new insight into what his father and brother now did. A laird was, above all, responsible for doing right by the people and was looked upon to be so. He learned to listen to those who brought grievances before him and considered both sides before making a decision. He took long walks to clear his head and ponder over the best ways to ensure the people of the surrounding lands were taken care of and would be fed and housed for the upcoming winter season.

One afternoon, the cold wind brushed his face as he stood atop the keep and looked down to the loch. It had been two months since he'd seen Meredith. Thankfully, her brother had given his word not to seek a husband for her as yet. He'd convinced Aiden Stuart that he'd like to court Meredith two months hence after ensuring all was well with his land and people. Now that time was up. He was nervous at how she'd receive him.

True, she had little say in marrying him, but he was not one to force a woman into marriage. If he'd learned anything, he knew an unhappy union brought many days of annoyance and bitterness on both ends.

His brother's marriage was what he wanted. The two were deeply in love and brightened at the sight of the other.

Hopefully he'd not made such a mess of things with Meredith that a chance at love was beyond repair.

A young man made his way toward him, a missive in hand. He was breathing hard from a hurried trip it seemed. "Laird Gordon, I bring a message from the Stuart."

He unrolled the parchment and read over the hurried writing. Meredith was gone.

Declan took off at a run toward the stables. "Dugan! Ian!"

Chapter Ten