Page 85 of Highland Sky

“But did ye have a proper weddin’?” asked Spring.

“Nay, we didna,” Nash answered. “I would like a proper weddin’ for Kellina, since she deserves it.”

“And ye deserve this,” said Tomas, pulling a parchment out of his pouch and handing it to Storm.

“What’s this?” asked Storm, still sitting atop his horse.

Tomas answered. “It’s a missive sayin’ that Nash MacKeefe has concluded his punishment here. He has been a true help in rebuildin’ the cottages and has become verra efficient at thatchin’ roofs.”

“So have I,” North called out. “Does that count for somethin’?”

They all laughed.

“Plus, he made the alliance by marryin’ Kellina,” Tomas finished.

“Then, I’d say his sentence his over.” Storm nodded, shoving the parchment inside his sash. “There is nothin’ my grandda can say now about ye, Nash. Ye are no longer an outcast of the clan. Welcome back.”

“What about me?” asked North, pushing to the front of the crowd. “Laird MacKeefe, what will my sentence be? I dinna want to be an outcast any longer.”

“After Nash and Kellina’s weddin’ ceremony, ye’ll get yer sentence as well, North.”

“Then, let’s quickly get back and get the blasted weddin’ under way,” said Nash. “I’m in a hurry to get my sentence over with . . . with Nash helpin’ me as promised, of course.”

“Of course,” grumbled Nash, already regretting the promise he’d made his brother.