“Aidam, what’s going on?” Ellie emerged from the bedchamber. She looked as fresh as the morning dew, and Aidam knew if it came down to a battle with his uncle, he would lose, but he would rather die defending Ellie than willingly allow her to be taken back.
“Me uncle is on his way,” he said simply. She nodded and began to pace. “Damon, ye’ve got to take Ellie out of her. I won’t ask ye to jeopardize yer own family, but get her to the village. I’ll deal with me uncle, throw him off the scent, and then I’ll meet you both in the village.”
“No,” Ellie said. “I willnae leave ye to face the laird alone.”
“Ellie, it’s not a discussion. I can handle me uncle, but if he sees ye with me, he will become enraged. It will be both our heads.”
“He’s right, lass,” Damon said. “Laird Sinclair isnae ken for his mercy.”
“But he’ll surely kill ye, Aidam. I cannae let ye sacrifice yerself.” Aidam could see the tears forming in her eyes.
He pulled her close. “Dae nae fash, Ellie. He willnae kill me outright. I’m still his blood. But I cannae protect ye if he finds ye here. I need ye to be safe. Ye hear me? Safe. Damon will keep ye safe. Will ye please go with him?”
Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of horses. Aidam knew their time was up. He gave Damon a quick nod, and Damon pulled Ellie from his arms.
“My lady, we have to go,” Damon said. She wiped the tears from her face and gave a nod. Quickly kissing Aidam before heading for the back door, she turned and smiled. “Don’t die,” she said.
“My lady, I wouldn’t dream of it,” he replied. Taking a deep breath, he turned to face the front of the cottage. The horses were louder now. He wondered why his uncle felt the need to bring so many men. Did the laird expect a battle? From him? If nothing else, at least Ellie would be safe. That was all that mattered.
