"Never," he said firmly."I would never abandon ye or any bairn of mine.Dinnae even think such thoughts.Though I should probably stop throwing ye over my shoulder, just to be safe."
They sat in silence for a long while, holding one another.
Until Una asked, "Cormac, why do ye want to stay married to me?"
"Because I love ye."
"Ye love me?"she whispered.
"Aye, sweeting.I have from the very first moment I set eyes on ye, trussed up like a goat in the back of that cart.Now tell me, why do ye keep trying to un-marry me?"
"Because I love ye too.So much, Cormac."
He pressed his forehead to hers."Thank goodness.Say it again."
"I love ye, Cormac."
He closed his eyes and breathed.
"Once more."
"I love ye, husband.But I want what's best for ye."
He opened his eyes, smiled, and kissed her gently."Then ye will know that what's best for me is you, wife.Only you."
Una nodded, feeling the truth of his words settle deep inside her.Her husband loved her.It was time she accepted it and stopped fighting it.
***
Chapter 23
The King's Petition
The session chamberwas smaller than the great hall.The councillors were already seated when Cormac and Una entered.
The Ruthvens were already there.
