Kuresh stood straight, shoulders back, head held high. Pride weaved its way through his strong body. “I believe God brought me here.”
“Then who am I to deny a man his fate?” Jamie said. “Priest.”
Father Brandon shuffled forward, a holy book in his hands. “Kuresh.”
Kuresh didn’t dislike him, for Father Brandon had dedicated his life to serving the people of Clan MacKay. Though he didn’t understand why a man would willingly choose to be celibate. Only eunuchs, tasked with guarding the royal harem, were damned to such a life. “Father Brandon.” Kuresh lowered his head out of respect.
“I welcome ye here,” the priest continued, “before God and these good people to take an oath to Clan MacKay.”
“Wait!” Jamie said. “Let us not forget another honored guest.”
Kuresh followed his laird’s gaze to a far corner of the hall. There, dressed in MacKay plaid, his once long, dark hair cropped short, was Kuresh’s younger brother, Nasim. Kuresh felt his smile grow. Warmth radiated up his body, for he had not seen his brother in months.
Nasim rushed across the room and threw his arms around him, kissing Kuresh’s cheeks. “Brother!”
“Nasim. When did you arrive?”
“Only this morning,” he said. “At the invitation of Laird Jamie.”
“I am happy to see you.”
“You are sorely missed by Laird Alex. I bring missives from him and many of the people, gifts, too.” Nasim stepped back and looked up at his brother.
“Though I miss Alex and his family and the men I served with, this is my home now.”
“I would expect no less,” Nasim said. “After the ceremony and celebration, perhaps you can give me a tour of the lands. I want to see everything, know what you do here. I will leave in the morning.”
How he wished he had more time with Nasim. Soon, he hoped, once Laird Jamie’s household was established, he’d take more time for himself and family. “Then you are not against what I have chosen? To give up my name?”
Nasim shook his head. “Kolay gelsin,” he said in their native tongue.May it be easy for you.
“Are ye ready, Prince Kuresh?” The priest asked.
“Yes. I am ready.”
