***
“There you are,” Sara said as he walked through the door. “I was just about to have Logan go searching for you.”
“Sorry. I got waylaid by a certain little old woman who needed my help,” Zeke said.
“Bethia. Isn’t she the sweetest? I think sometimes she asks for my help just so she’ll have someone to talk to.”
“I think you’re right.”
“I check in with her every day. I try to bring her food and make sure she has everything she needs.”
“She’s a kind heart, me wife,” Logan added. “Can we eat now?”
“Yes. Now that Zeke’s here I’ll get the food. Sit down.”
“Did ye get any thinking done?” Logan asked.
“I did. I don’t know that I solved the problems of the world, but it was nice to try putting some things in perspective.”
Sara placed the food on the table and they all helped themselves. Zeke glanced up once or twice to see Sara gazing lovingly at him. He had to admit, this was nice.
Chapter 15
Brenna spent the morning with Helene as she busied herself around the castle. She was excited to meet Ashley and Jenna, as they hadn’t joined them for dinner the other night.
“Helene,” Cailin said, as he rushed her way with a sweet little one in his arms. “Would ye mind taking Emma? I’m off to the practice field.”
Helene held out her arms and Emma did the same. “Come here me sweet,” she cooed. “Is Ashley still abed?”
“She’s feeding wee Andrew. I’m sure she could use yer help getting dressed.” Helene took baby Emma from Cailin as the men headed out to the practice field.
“Do ye think Zeke will join them,” Brenna asked, trying not to appear to interested.
“I’m sure he will. If ye’d prefer to go watch them, I dinnae mind.”
“Nae. I’d much rather spend the morning with ye,” she lied.
Helene scrunched her nose and made a face at her. “Yer nae fooling me, lassie.”
“’Tis true. I wish to meet Ashley and Jenna.” She tickled little Emma under the chin.
“Would ye like to hold her?” Helene headed for the stairs with Brenna following behind.
“Mayhap I will later,” she said.
“Alright. Follow me.” They reached the first landing and headed down the passageway. As they approached Ashley’s chamber, they could hear the distinct sound of a newborn babe fussing. Helene knocked on the door.
“Come in,” Ashley called.
They entered the room and Helene handed baby Emma off to Brenna as she immediately began opening the shutters to let the light in.
“Thank you, Helene. I meant to have Cailin do that before he left, but I forgot. This little one has been demanding all of my attention.”
“Would ye like to get out of bed?” Helene asked.
“I would, but I could use some help.” Ashley smiled warmly at Brenna. “Who have we here?”
“This is Dougall’s sister, Brenna. She’s come to live with us.”
