He asked about the townsfolk and of the loyalty that could be expected from them. Hugh had been quite forthcoming in mentioning them all, mostly by name, which was encouraging since he was acquainted with each and every family who lived in Mugdock village.
The one aspect of Sinclair security William was not clear on was the proximity to clans MacKay and Sutherland. Those clans warred with one another frequently, but where Hugh placed himself among those battles, he was not specific. ’Twas fair enough if that man’s position was to remain neutral, but if so, why not make that declaration? William feared it was something far more dangerous, even if not malicious. If Hugh was playing both sides, the resulting effect could have far-reaching consequences. Add in the Highland rebels and this was not a place he wanted to remain with his new wife. Of that much he was certain.
Agnes sighed in her sleep drawing his attention to her form. By God he could not have imagined a more perfect match for himself. She was everything and more he could have ever hoped for. That made the dangers around them much more apparent.He needed to get them out of here where there was nowhere to run should they be cornered.
He’d read the names; in addition to the territories they’d crossed to get here, MacKay was included and if that meant the laird, he was not interested in stirring that pot.
For tonight, he would ensure the king’s guard was assigned to Agnes and no other. They’d been ever watchful and working in shifts, but they would all have their focus on her until she was safely settled into Mugdock Castle. They would leave the day after next and not one moment later. He would allow the three days of nuptial festivities, but after that they would make the long journey home. There weren’t many opportunities to take alternate routes unless he wanted to delay their return significantly, and he most assuredly did not want that.
Agnes stirred on the bed. He loved the way she blinked at him as if she had no idea where she was.
“You still have time to slumber before getting ready if you like,” he said.
She sat up and stretched. “My back was cold and I didn’t know where you’d gone.”
“I’m just sitting here, wife. Enjoying the quiet before the evening.”
She slid off the bed and came to sit in his lap. Curling up, she placed her arms around his neck and put her head on his shoulder.
“Something is troubling you,” she said.
“What makes you say that?”
“Because your brows are tight together and your dimples are not showing. They disappear when you frown.”
He hadn’t realized she had taken such a note of his expressions. This woman of his was far more aware of her surroundings than he’d given credit.
“I was wondering how I’d gotten so fortunate as to have found such a creature as you.”
Agnes unlinked her arms and placed her hands on his face.
“William. I want you to promise me one thing and one thing only.”
“And what is that?”
“I want you to promise me that you will never lie to me again.”
He stared deep into her eyes. She meant it and he wanted to make that promise. But he could not tell her everything. Particularly his suspicions regarding her father’s potential involvement with the rebels, even if involuntary. William feared Hugh was turning a blind eye out of a desire to keep the peace. One could still be found guilty of a crime if one was aware of a dangerous plot and did nothing.
“I promise you that I will be as truthful as I can in all things.”
“I know you are holding onto information about the Highlanders plotting against the king and queen. I also know you are not being truthful when it comes to my safety. I want you to tell me what has put this level of concern on your face.”
“Agnes, it is not that simple.”
“It can be,” she said. “If you trust me.”
“It is not about trusting you. It’s about endangering you more. Your father is convinced this castle and its location is the safest place you could be. I disagree and will only rest easy when you are firmly located at Mugdock Castle and our journey is behind us.”
“You truly feel I am in danger?”
“Aye, I do now more than ever. Now I have seen the lands surrounding this place and having considered your neighbors, I am convinced it is not safe for you here.”
He hated the look of sadness that crept into her eyes. Thankfully she didn’t ask any further questions or make anydebate with him. He kissed her softly and drew her into an embrace. Nothing on this earth would take her from him.
Chapter Twelve
Rummaging through herchest of gowns, she rooted until she found the exact one she sought. She might not know the correct number of guards to place on the wall, but she knew every stone in this castle and every hill surrounding it. She was proud of her family and her clan. She would prove to William they were trustworthy and good people.
