Page 37 of Highlander’s Evil Twin

“You must be getting closer to the date of birth,” Hiram said, trying to encourage her.

“It won’t be long. Apparently, the midwife said the head has engaged. I can’t wait until the baby arrives. I am sure I will still be up all the time...however, I won’t be waddling around, or struggling to get up off the bed at night,” Heather joked.

Heather stretched her back and then, giving Hiram a quick kiss on the cheek, she wandered off to the maze.

“You are worried, Brother,” Maggie said once Heather was out of earshot.

Hiram nodded. “She was having nightmares. They seem to have stopped now but, they were disturbing her sleep.”

“Connor-related?”

“I don’t know. Perhaps. It settled after I gave those men a good thrashing before. She seemed to be more peaceful but then it started again. She was worried about mother, but now that problem has gone. She seems to be anxious at times. Like she is seeing something that is not there. Maybe those damn ghost stories about Connor walking the grounds is getting to her.”

“She did nearly die at his hands,” Maggie stated. “I mean, how do you get over that?”

Hiram shook his head. He felt frustrated, helpless, and knew there was little he could do. Time was moving so fast and he felt he couldn’t keep up with it. He felt as if he hadn’t even grown used to the pregnancy, yet the baby would be here soon. She must feel the same. He was worried. Not just about Heather, but whether he could cope.

“You are frowning. What are you thinking?”

“Aye, I was.” He grimaced. “I can’t help but wonder if I can cope with a wee thing that will be demanding my time.” He tried to laugh but Maggie could see the concern in his eyes.

“You will be fine. I know you Hiram. You will be the best father ever.”

“Do you really think so?” He looked at her gratefully.

“Aye, I know so and I am going to be the best auntie.” She laughed. “You know, I think that the two of you are just getting anxious because you know that having a wee-un around the place is going to change your lives. It won’t be the two of you now, you will be three, a family. Although it will change, it will make it even better.”

Hiram felt his eyes mist with emotion. She was right. It was just last-minute fears and he would protect their child with his life if he had to. “Thank you.”

Heather walked slowly out of the maze. “I think I have had enough exercise for today. I am getting a few pains.”

“The baby? It is coming?”

“No, I don’t think so. Just reminding me to not overdo it.” Heather laughed, lowering herself gratefully in the chair.

“I am worried about leaving you.” Hiram frowned. “I have to attend a meeting soon and I just wish I knew when our child might make an appearance.”

“How long will you be gone?” Heather felt her mood drop. As Laird, he had responsibilities, but she hated him going away.

“A couple of days, my love. Maximum. I will not be staying longer than necessary, but it is important.” He frowned; it was going to be far from easy. The clan McCloud could be difficult when it suited them, but he needed them on side.

“Where are you going?” Maggie asked.

“I have to arrange a deal with the McCloud clan. Not looking forward to it. No doubt they will expect the earth if we want them on side.”

Maggie blushed but said nothing. Heather looked at her quizzically. She had an idea. “Doesn’t the Laird there have all those strapping young sons? Perhaps we could arrange something. How about a marriage?”

Maggie shrunk in her chair, trying to be innocuous.

Hiram sighed. “But which one? There are four of them. Not sure if they have a brain cell between them.”

Maggie gasped. “Heath is not stupid! He is very interesting, actually. You’ve just never bothered to talk to him. If you did, you would be surprised.”

Hiram almost laughed but Heather nudged him. “You like him don’t you?”

Maggie turned bright red again. “Aye, I do.”

“How does he feel about you?” Heather asked.