Mhairi studied his face for a moment, then placed her hand back in his. "One more."
They danced three more songs after that. By the time they finally left the floor, Mhairi was laughing, her earlier tension completely gone, and Alpin felt lighter than he had in days.
Maybe weeks.
"I need water," Mhairi said, fanning herself with one hand. "And possibly tae sit down before me feet fall off."
"Weak," Alpin teased.
"Some of us are nae accustomed tae this much movin' around."
"Ye seemed tae manage fine when ye were runnin' through that forest away from me."
"That was different. That was survival." She accepted a cup of water from a passing servant and drank deeply. "This is just showin' off."
"Am I showin' off?"
"Terribly." Her eyes sparkled over the rim of her cup. "But I dinnae mind."
Callum appeared beside them, grinning like a fool. "Enjoyin' the evenin', are we?"
"Immensely," Mhairi said before Alpin could respond.
"Good. Because half the clan's been placin' bets on whether our laird would finally stop broodin' in corners and actually dance with ye."
Alpin glared at him. "They have nae."
"They absolutely have. I'm up three silver coins now, thanks tae ye finally growin' a spine."
"I'm goin' tae murder ye in yer sleep."
"Ye keep sayin' that, and yet here I am. Still breathin'." Callum clapped him on the shoulder. "Now, if ye'll excuse me, I see alovely lass who looks like she needs a dancin' partner. Try nae tae glower at anyone else while I'm gone, aye?"
He disappeared into the crowd before Alpin could respond.
Mhairi was trying very hard not to laugh. "He's terrible."
"He's the worst."
"He’s still yer friend though."
"Unfortunately." Alpin drained his own cup and set it aside. "Come on. Let's get some air before I drink too much ale."
He led her toward one of the side doors that opened onto a small courtyard. The night air was cool and crisp, a welcome relief after the warmth of the crowded hall.
Mhairi tilted her head back, looking up at the stars. "It's a clear night."
"Aye." Alpin moved to stand beside her. "Can ye see our constellations?"
She scanned the sky, then pointed. "There. The Broken Rope."
"And?"
"The Brave Laird." Her hand shifted. "And the Grey-Eyed Queen."
Their fingers were nearly touching on the stone railing. Alpin shifted slightly, closing the distance until their hands met.
"I’m sorry I tried tae push ye away. Ye are so patient and I was bein' foolish," Mhairi said quietly.
