The thought came unbidden, unwelcome. He’d expected defiance from her; he’d counted on it after that kiss at the altar had nearly knocked him senseless. But seeing her stand up to him now, chin lifted in challenge, made something primal stir in his chest.
“Are ye nae?” He stepped closer, deliberately invading her space. “Because from where I’m standin’, lass, ye belong to me now, body and soul.”
“I belong to nay one!”
“Ye’re wrong.” His voice dropped to a whisper. “Ye became mine the moment ye said those vows, and if ye think I’m goin’ to let ye sit around here playin’ house while me enemies circle like wolves, ye’re sorely mistaken.”
She blinked, some of the fire dying out of her eyes. “Enemies?”
“Aye, men who’d be very interested to ken that Laird McMurphy has taken a new wife. Men who might think a soft Highland bride would make excellent leverage.” He watched understanding dawn on her face. “Is that what ye want, Iris? To be used against me?”
“I...” She swallowed hard. “Nay, but that doesnae mean ye can just do whatever ye like.”
“It means exactly that.” He turned toward the door then paused. “One hour, wife. Be ready, or I’ll carry ye to that carriage meself.”
“Ye wouldnae dare!”
Elijah looked back over his shoulder, letting his gaze travel slowly down her body and back up again. “Try me.”
Fifty-three minutes later, Iris emerged from the castle with her maid Mairie at her side. She’d changed from her wedding gown into a simple riding dress, but Elijah noticed she’d kept her hair in the elaborate style from the ceremony. Almost like she was making a point.
Stubborn lass.
Henry was waiting by the carriage, checking the harnesses one final time. At thirty-two, Elijah’s man-at-arms was built like a stone wall and had the scars to prove he knew how to useevery weapon strapped to his body. But seeing Iris approach, he actually removed his cap.
“Me lady,” he said with a respectful nod, “I’m Henry, and I’ll be escortin’ ye and the Laird to McMurphy lands.”
“Just the two of ye?” Iris glanced around the courtyard, clearly looking for more men. “That’s it?”
Henry grinned, revealing a gold tooth. “Daenae worry, lass. The Laird and I can handle any trouble that comes our way.”
“Any trouble?” she repeated skeptically.
“Aye, been doing it for nigh on fifteen years now.” Henry’s expression grew serious. “Ye’re safe with us, me lady. I give ye me word on that.”
Elijah felt something ease in his chest at his friend’s words. Henry had been with him since they were both green boys playing at being warriors. If anyone could be trusted with Iris’s safety, it was him.
“Thank ye,” Iris said quietly, and Elijah heard the genuine gratitude in her voice.
At the carriage steps, Mairie hesitated, glancing between Iris and the Laird.
“I’ll see ye safe this far, me lady,” she murmured, pressing Iris’ hand. “Ye look every bit the Lady, but I wish it were me ridin’ with ye. It sits uneasily in me heart, lettin’ ye go alone.”
“Aye, and I’ll miss ye. But ye will come soon.” Iris managed a small smile.
Tears spilled down the maid’s cheeks as she whispered, “Then may the saints guard ye, me lady.”
“And may they keep ye as well,” Iris answered softly.
With a curtsy, the maid stepped back, leaving Iris to board alone.
“Right then,” Henry announced, swinging open the carriage door. “All aboard for Castle McMurphy.”
Iris climbed in, but before she could settle into her seat, she turned back to Elijah.
“Are ye nae ridin’ in here as well?”
“Nay, I prefer to ride.” He gestured to his black stallion, already saddled and waiting. “Besides, someone needs to keep watch.”
