Page 147 of Bond of a Bewitched Highlander

"Aye, you were right about the curse and the witch. You too, Torr," Brodie said.

They eyed him in disbelief. "'Tis a miracle," Gavin rasped in awe.

"Indeed." Torr dropped into the chair on the other side of the bed.

"When I'm wrong, I say it," Brodie admitted, taking a sip. The whisky burned a trail down his throat.

"Well, we ken the curse heavily influenced you," Torr said.

"Aye, everything feels lighter now that the hag is gone."

They all nodded.

"When is the wedding?" Gavin inquired.

The words were like a thump to the chest. Brodie's heartbeat sped up with excitement. "I have nay even proposed again yet."

"Well, get on with it. What's taking so long?" Gavin gave him a pointed but teasing glance.

Torr snorted with laughter.

"I wish to get down on one knee, nay fall on my face," Brodie grumbled. "If she accepts, we should probably wait for Will to arrive in a sennight."

"If she accepts," Gavin scoffed. "As if she wouldn't."

Brodie grinned, recalling the affectionate things Elsea had said to him. "She's been wearing the ring I gave her when we got betrothed on a cord around her neck."

"Saints," Gavin hissed. "I'd say she loves you."

Brodie nodded, warmth filling him. "I believe she does."

"Well, we ken you've been under her spell for at least two years, aye?" Torr would know since he was the one who'd introduced them.

"Aye, the wee bonnie angel." Brodie recalled how sweet, innocent, and lovely she'd looked the first time he'd seen her.

"Avenging warrior angel now," Torr corrected.

"Aye, she's brave. And strong." Brodie beamed. "I'm so proud of her."

A knock sounded at the door. Was it Elsea returning? He hoped. "Enter."

When his mother stuck her head in, he wanted to groan. She had already hugged him in the courtyard when they'd arrived. He loved her, but didn't like how she treated him like a child, especially in front of Gavin and Torr. They would tease him unmercifully.

"Oh, Brodie, my sweet lad." She hastened forward and kissed him on the forehead, bringing the scent of rosewater with her. "I was so worried. How are you feeling?"

"I'm improving, Ma. Remain calm. All is well."

She stared at his scalp. "Oh, your poor head. I cannot believe you were shot. That horrid man got what he deserved. I'm glad Elsea was there to protect you."

Saints! She made him seem like a helpless bairn.

"Who told you?" Brodie asked.

"Gavin and Torr, of course."

"My deepest thanks, lads," Brodie muttered. "Now I need a wee lass to protect me."

"I had no notion she was so tough," his mother said.