Page 287 of Wicked Highland Heroes

“You could be lying.”

“I am not. When the sun rises you will see.”

“Why not kill us?” Ronald asked.

“If you do not leave at dawn, I will.”

* * *

“It had to have been St. Claire.” For the dozenth time, Rhoslyn stalked to the window in her solar, despite knowing she could see little of the men camped beyond the wall.

After the two groups of riders met and talked, the English returned to their camp, and the riders followed, then camped beside them.

“Why is he staying out there?” she said.

“You did not think the English army would leave because he asked nicely?” Taresa said.

Rhoslyn looked at her. “Ye think they mean to fight?”

“No. I think they mean to wait until the light of day to be sure they are outnumbered. It will not be easy for them to tell King Edward they did not raise a single sword. They will have to be certain they are vastly outnumbered.”

Rhoslyn glanced at the window. “But ye do think they will leave quietly?”

“Everything is quiet, Rhoslyn. Have faith in Talbot. He does not want to fight his countrymen. He is giving them every opportunity to leave peaceably.”

“That does no’ mean they will.”

“Come, sit with me.” Taresa patted the bench beside her. “You do not want to overexcite yourself.”

Truth be told, Rhoslyn was tired. But she couldn’t think of sleeping.

“Come,” Lady Taresa urged. “Talbot will not be pleased if he returns to find you overwrought.”

Rhoslyn did as she asked and sat beside her.

“It is kind of you to come to me,” Rhoslyn said.

“You are my family. I would not be anywhere else.” She smiled. “Family is what matters, yes?”

“Aye,” Rhoslyn agreed. “There is nothing more important.”

“Tell me,” Taresa said, “have you and Talbot decided upon a name for the baby?”

Rhoslyn shook her head. “St. Claire has said nothing.”

Taresa snorted. “Men. Never mind. Have you a name in mind?”

“We could name him after his father.”

“Talbot is a fine name,” Taresa agreed.

“My grandfather’s name is Hugo. My father was named Henry.”

Taresa’s brow rose. “You are certain it is a boy? What if you have a girl?”

“I do no’ know. St. Claire seems to want a son.”

“All men want sons. But they love daughters, as well. An older sister will keep her brother in line.”