Page 80 of Bond of a Bewitched Highlander

Minutes later, once they were inside the castle, she followed Finnian into his workroom. She inhaled the mixed scents of dried herbs.

"How is your head?" he asked.

She touched the lump on her scalp. "Still a bit sore, but nay painful."

"Good. I was afraid the trip might be too hard on you."

She shook her head. "I am well."

"You are a strong young lady. Forgive me for being so forward, but I see how you feel about the chief."

Her face burning, she covered her cheeks and stared at him, speechless.

"Nay, do not be embarrassed, lass. Your feelings for him are pure and beautiful, and I'm so happy to see them. The selkies were aware, too. They are telepathic, you ken. They can read your thoughts and emotions." Finnian gave a slight smile.

"Oh, heavens." Was that why Arabella had wrapped Brodie's hand around hers? Had she sensed Elsea's love for him?

"'Tis Chief Brodie who is the problem," Finnian went on. "His stubbornness knows no bounds. He'll hold a grudge until kingdom come."

She nodded. "I probably deserve it."

"Nay, you do not," Finnian said with vehemence.

Goodness, she had not expected him to defend her with such zeal. She knew not what to say to that except.... "Well, I thank you."

His voice gentled. "Have you apologized to him?"

"Aye, but not well enough, I suppose. He refuses to listen. I tried to explain why I had to do what I did."

"The salmon that hit his chest." Finnian chuckled. "'Twas a sign."

"It was?"

"Aye, it was trying to impart some wisdom on the obstinate lad."

"Oh." How funny. She was not superstitious enough to believe that, but she didn't argue.

"'Twas telling him to listen to his heart." Finnian's sharp blue gaze held hers. "You love the lad, do you not?"

Saints! She had never expected such a direct question. Heat washed over her.

Finnian waited, the corners of his lips lifting a fraction in his snowy beard.

She swallowed hard and looked away, wishing she could hide her fragile feelings. "Aye. Though I ken 'tis foolish of me."

"'Tis nay foolish at all, lass. You are wise beyond your years." Finnian paced as if considering. "I think you should tell him everything and lay your soul bare. 'Tis the only way to get through the thick stone wall he has built around his heart to protect himself. His heart is still broken, and he is fearful of being hurt again."

Biting her lip, she nodded, for she knew this.

"Tell him your reasons, how you felt then, and how you feel now." Finnian's perceptive gaze pinned her to the spot.

Heavens, to make herself that vulnerable. He might destroy her. "I'm nay sure...."

"I've grown rather fond of the lad in the past couple of months," Finnian mused. "He is a good man. There is nay a selfish bone in his body. Aye, he is crabbit and thunderous, but I have never seen a man in such agony. When I look at his future in the keek stane, 'tis bleak indeed if the curse remains. There is nay an herbal remedy for what ails him. You are the only elixir."

"You're saying since I'm the one who wounded him, I'm the one who must heal him?"

"I'm nay casting any blame. I ken you must've had your reasons."