Page 22 of Bond of a Bewitched Highlander

"You must be. We have plenty of bread, cheese, and rabbit stew left over. I insist. Your brother will throttle me if I do not feed you well."

She truly wasn't hungry, but he was determined to give her something to do, so he could rush out to the selkies' island, no doubt.

"Very well," she agreed. "If you wouldn't mind. I am a bit hungry."

"Of course." He motioned toward the stairs. "You can eat in one of the bedchambers and sleep there tonight."

She lifted a brow.

"Nay mine. A different chamber. I'll have Vesey, the cook, bring your supper and build a fire for you."

"How nice. I would appreciate that," she gushed. "You are too kind, m'laird."

"My pleasure. I'll show you where it is." He headed up the spiral staircase, and she followed, the scent of mold and decaying wood heavy in the air. In the upstairs corridor, he stopped by an open door. "This bedchamber is decent, and you can use it tonight. I'm certain you're exhausted after that long ride."

She nodded.

"I'm going to look at some horses, so I'll be out for a while. We'll leave in the morn, and I'll take you back to Kincreag."

Horses? Ha. He took her for a complete fool, didn't he?

"You're right. I am tired." She forced a yawn.

"Sleep well, my love. I'll see you in the morn." He kissed her hand, bowed, and left.

Silently, she followed him down the stairs again, looking for another way out of here. She wandered through a few rooms, some in terrible condition.

"M'lady?" Talnaroch called. "Where are you?" He growled orders to someone.

Blast him! She'd thought he was gone. Running footsteps clunked over the floors, echoing. Some headed toward her, and she could find no place to hide in this austere, crumbling place.

"Och! There you are, m'lady!" the gray-bearded, rotund man announced.

"Are you the cook?" she asked.

"Aye. I'm Vesey. I brought you some supper. 'Tis in your chamber." He motioned toward the ceiling.

"Well, I was searching for a garderobe."

"Come, I'll show you."

"You have found her!" Talnaroch beamed.

"She was looking for a garderobe, m'laird."

"Ah. I'm sure you can show her where 'tis. I'll return soon. Enjoy your meal." He inclined his head.

"I thank you."

Talnaroch headed toward the great hall.

Blast it! She had to get away from this cook.

"Do you remember where the chamber is, m'lady?" Vesey appeared sterner now.

"Aye. But what about the garderobe?"

"'Tis upstairs." He gestured for her to proceed up the steps.