She caught a whiff of a delightful aroma that wafted through the door to the kitchens. It caused her stomach to growl with hunger. Her nerves had gotten the better of her and prevented her from eating breakfast that morning.
Outside, only a handful of people had gathered to witness the ceremony. They were standing at the bottom of the stairs leading to the main hall. Their eyes swiveled to her as she stepped out into the courtyard.
The area was beautifully decorated with colorful flower garlands of various lengths and sizes. The whites, blues, and purples blended seamlessly together along the low walls that bordered the main hall and stables.
“I’m nervous,” Helena admitted, her stomach fluttering.
Alice paused, turning back to her and taking her hands. “About Alexander? Or marriage? Or perhaps both?”
“Aye, all of it…”
“Deep breaths,” Alice advised. “All will be well. Remember why ye’re doin’ this.”
Helena nodded.
Alice gave a soft smile before turning back around.
Following her to the center, Helena noticed a young, red-haired maid glaring at her from the back of the small group. She was just about to ask Margaret who the girl was when the older maid stepped away to join the other servants.
Helena decided that the question would have to wait as she continued following Alice to where her two brothers stood with the priest. Only a handful of the MacAllister clansfolk were in attendance, and the majority of them were the castle’s occupants.
Everyone was staring at her. For some, it was their first glimpse of the new lady of the castle. Alice had informed her just that morning that the tradition in Clan MacAllister was far different from that in Clan MacPherson. She had sworn to help her learn it, as Helena had never been prepared for such a monumental responsibility.
Oh God. After today, I’ll be responsible for these people, their families, and the runnin’ of this clan.
Bile rose in Helena’s throat as she started to panic.
She decided to focus her attention on those she knew, chasing the fear back down. This was the first time she had seen the three siblings beside one another.
The resemblance was uncanny now that she saw them together. All three had dark black hair. All of them had the same striking hazel eyes. The biggest difference between them was their height and facial hair. Alice was short compared to her brothers, Alexander being the tallest of the bunch, Michael not much shorter than him.
The three wore near-matching blue and green tartans—MacAllister colors. Alexander’s belted kilt was pristine. His long hair was pulled back in a small bun at the nape of his neck.
The village priest started the ceremony. Michael handed them a quiach, and as tradition dictated, Helena drank from the small ceremonial cup first and then Alexander, signifying trust between bride and groom. Alice then produced a long ribbon in MacAllister colors for the handfasting part.
Helena felt as if she couldn’t breathe, the air around her thick and stagnant as the gravity of the situation dawned on her. She prayed over and over as she clasped hands with Alexander.
Alice wrapped the soft ribbon around their hands and forearms. An unexpected warmth rushed up Helena’s arm as the ceremony that would forever tie their lives ended.
Remember, it’s just a means to an end. The war will end, and our people will finally find peace. This is the only choice—the right choice.
Risking a glance at him, she found that he was watching her with an amused smile. For the first time, she let herself consider howattractive he truly was, with his long black hair and matching beard.
He looked dashing, with long black hose covering his lower legs, a matching vest, and a belt around his kilt, which matched her blue and green arisaid.
Her thoughts, combined with the look in his hazel eyes, brought a shy smile to her lips. He leaned down to kiss her, but instead of meeting her lips, he brushed aside her hair and kissed her cheek softly.
“I do hope ye are ready to become mine this evening, me bride,” he whispered in her ear, causing a deep blush to bloom across her face such that she could feel its warmth spread down her neck and to her ears.
Alexander raised their arms, signaling to the small crowd that the ceremony was over. Helena felt her neck flush impossibly further as all eyes surrounding them landed on her. She felt exposed under their scrutiny.
Oh Lord, let me find someplace to hide.
“Let us withdraw to the hall for the celebratory feast in Lady MacAllister’s honor,” Alexander boomed as he released her hand. “I will meet ye inside. Alice, please escort Helena.”
Helena looked from Alexander to Alice for a moment, confused by his sudden dismissal. Her sister-in-law took her hand, patting it reassuringly, and pulled her through the crowd.
“Come now, Helena—I mean, Sister. Oh, I’m so excited to say that I have a sister!” Alice squealed, oblivious to Helena’s confusion.
