Page 47 of Never Kiss a Highlander

As she’d thought about her predicament, she knew in her heart that, even though she’d rode out on her own against Finn’s wishes, there was no doubt in her mind that Finn would come for her.

Because she trusted him.

She’d finally accepted that Finn would ne’er hurt her, e’er leave her, or take on a mistress. He’d be there for her.

“I am sorry, lass, that ye still feel as though I am trying to control ye. I’ve given it some thought, and I realized I only need to insist on ye obeying my orders when it comes to yer safety. I doona want to even think about living without ye, Alison.”

And, with a sigh, he continued, “And ye were correct; I need to leave the past behind. I cannot control everything, and I need to stop trying.”

“I love ye, Finn Mackay,” she said.

“And I love ye, Alison Mackay.” He bent and kissed her gently on her lips. She pulled him closer, causing the kiss to go deeper, sealing their love for each other.

Finn held her cheeks in his hands. “Ye are beginning to grow warm again, lass.” He turned to the maid who had been sitting there, assuming she was left there to keep Alison from trying to escape.

“Can ye fetch the healer? I’d like to speak with her, plus my wife seems to be developing another fever.”

“I’m no’ sure I’m supposed to leave her.”

Finn smiled. “’Tis fine. Yer laird is right now speaking with The Mackay. All is well.”

Still looking doubtful, she stood. “I will leave the door open.”

“Archie said his da wanted something from the broken engagement. Is that what they are speaking about?” Alison asked.

“Aye. Yer da wanted me to come by myself to meet with The Sinclair, but I doona ken what he is willing to pay for the broken engagement.”

Alison huffed. “Archie broke the betrothal.”

“And I thank God every day that he did,” Finn said, running his finger down her cheek.

She cupped his face with her hands. “Me as well.”

Finn rested his foot on his knee. “I think after we return home after this, I will be taking over many of yer da’s responsibilities.”

“He is growing weaker, is he no’?”

“Aye. He had a hard time this week remembering two of our maids that have been there for a few years.”

Alison shook her head. “I could see this coming for some time now.”

“I ken,” he said.

The door opened and the maid returned with another woman. Older, plump, and with a smile on her face. Her ruddy cheeks and bright eyes made one like her upon seeing her for the first time.

“Ach, I see our patient is awake.” She moved closer to the bed. “How are ye feeling, Lady Mackay?”

She took Finn’s hand in hers. “Many times better since my husband is here.”

The woman looked at Finn. “And a fine looking mon he is.”

He grinned and Alison nudged him with her elbow. The healer looked at Finn. “My name is Camy Sinclair, the clan healer.”

“Finn Mackay, Miss Sinclair. “I believe my wife is starting another fever.”

Camy began to tsk and felt Alison’s head. “Aye.”

“They said downstairs that Lady Mackay is suffering with an ague,” Finn said to the healer.