Helen jumped up. “Is she…”
“Resting comfortably and happy.”
“Thank God.”
“May I see her?”
Alex dinna want to excite his wife, not after what she’d just gone through. “In the morn,” he offered. “After she’s rested a spell.”
“I understand, milord.”
“Tis nothing against ye, Lady Helen.”
She smiled softly.
“Do ye like children?” Keely would need help with the bairns. And who better than her closest friend?
“I adore bairns,” she said sincerely. “New life is the promise of a new tomorrow.”
He liked her words very much. “Are ye hungry?”
She nodded.
“Wait here.” Alex walked down the short passageway that led to the kitchens.
The cook and maids were still working, but stopped as soon as they saw him.
“Laird Alex,” the cook asked. “Did ye bring news for us about Lady Keely?”
Jesus, he’d nearly forgotten to share the joyous news. They’d all stayed up late because they loved their mistress so much. How things had changed since she returned on that fateful day two and a half years ago. It had taken hard work to win the hearts of his people again, to earn their trust back. Alex had given her permission to reside over the women’s disputes every month, and she’d proven to be a fair judge. His household had never been more peaceful or efficiently run.
“Twins,” he said. “John Matthew, and Rebecca. Perfect in every way. Lady Keely is recovering—she’s a strong, lass.”
The cheers were endless, and one of the maids handed him a cup of ale.
“Thank ye,” he said, taking a much-needed drink. “There is a lady waiting in the great hall. She needs food and drink. Once she’s finished eating, take her to my ma’s chamber and give her whatever she needs.”
The maid curtsied. “Aye, milord.”
Alex offered his servants a last smile, then returned to the great hall and found Jamie waiting in the shadows. He was obviously transfixed by the golden beauty of Helen Sutherland and her black eyes.
“Jamie.” He tapped his cousin on the shoulder.
“W-who is she?”
“No one ye need to concern yerself with. She is but a ghost.”
“That woman is no spirit—she’s flesh and blood, the bonniest I’ve ever seen.”
Alex sighed. Damn his bad luck. “Helen Sutherland.”
Jamie’s eyes grew wide. “The Helen Sutherland?”
“The earl’s daughter, aye.”
“What is she doing here?”
“She asked for sanctuary, and I have granted it.’
