Page 83 of Tales of Highland Loyalty

Shaking his hand, Trenton indicated the full-length houppelande, which formed a train on the ground behind him, and the joined hose beneath it.

"I cannot walk in them. I can't do it!" he huffed. "Tell me again why I have to come?"

Will rolled his eyes. "For heaven's sake, Trenton, who is the child exactly? Tonight is important to Mary-Ann, so just⁠—"

"Trenton?"

A voice from behind made them all turn around. Standing behind them in the Rothingham townhouse was the dowager duchess.

The duchess lifted Edward, a small three-year-old boy with jet-black hair, and harrumphed at her children.

"You're more mature than the pair put together," she whispered to Edward.

"Mother!" Will leaped up to greet his mother, planting a kiss on her forehead. Beaming, he picked up Edward, spinning him around in his arms.

Duchess Iverst turned to Trenton sharply. "For goodness' sake, boy, get your doublet fastened up and hitch up your hose. For the first time in your life, you will be an asset to this family."

Trenton subdued under his mother's glare. Will hid a smile. And next to him, Lissie beamed.

"Och, it's braw having all the family together," she said, smiling, as the duchess nodded amiably. Then she turned to Will in hope.

"She says it is splendid having all the family here again," translated Will.

The duchess nodded back. Lissie smiled but looked a little uncertain.

Will's mother had been perfectly nice, but she still was not sure whether she approved of their marriage.

"It is," she agreed. "And all worth the long journey to see your grandmother!"

The duchess fussed the little boy some more as Will looked at Lissie.

"She likes you," he said, touching her hand. "Believe me, I can tell."

Lissie blinked and looked away. To her dismay, tears were forming. Emotions washed through her with no warning.

Dabbing her eyes down, Lissie struggled to get control of herself. Perhaps it was her humors; they were in a state of flux ever since being with child.

Seeing all of Will's family together gave her a glow. This felt right. She was glad they had come.

"Hoo there! Are we ready?" called Will, looking around. For a minute, Lissie wondered what he meant. They are all here, she thought. But then she stopped.

There was someone missing.

"Mary-Ann!"

The duchess gasped, and they all turned around. There, in the hallway, stood Will's little sister. But in the half-light, there was nothing little about her.

Lissie did a double-take. Cautiously, Mary-Ann tiptoed across the hall half-apologetically, hitching up her long flowing gown and frowning.

"I am not sure," she said uncertainly. In despair, she turned to the duchess.

"Darling," she said, patting her daughter's hand. "You look beautiful," she said, as Will concurred.

"Ye do," murmured Lissie, unable to recognize Mary-Ann. Her dark hair glistened in the candlelight. Suddenly, she looked much older.

Lissie's heart swelled with pride. Mary-Ann was such a bright girl, and to see her blossom was a privilege.

Will was impressed. Taking Mary-Ann's hand, he straightened her scarlet gown and smiled. Then, linking arms, the four of them prepared to go down into the feast.

Will sighed. "My little sister, all grown up." He smiled. "Whatever next..."

Lissie looked at him archly. Then her eyes met Trenton. Will instantly laughed, and his mother shook her head.

When Trenton had gone on ahead to greet guests, the three of them looked at each other.

"So then, what about a feast for Trenton?" quipped Will, only half-joking. Setting her head on Will's shoulder, Lissie squeezed his hand.

"Do you think you can find a woman who will stand him?" Will said, his blue eyes arching over.

Lissie looked surprised. "Me?" she said, looking up.

"Aye, you," said Will, suddenly taking her in his arms. The feast just beginning, he walked her down the steps to the grand hall. Laughing, the pair of them went into the chamber.

"You. Because you weave enchantments..." He stopped and kissed her. Lissie felt herself flush. "And if anyone can perform miracles, Lissie, you can, so what do you say?"

Caught tenderly in his gaze, Lissie buzzed with pleasure.

"I say, I must be mad, but yes, Will. Pray, let him have as much happiness as we do!"