Page 23 of A Kilted Marriage of Convenience

However, as they continued to walk, it appeared that no one noticed her among them. Ciara breathed a small sigh of relief and calmed down. It seemed that Lillie had spoken to her brothers, and they approved, strangely enough.

Just when the gates opened and the girls stepped out, she heard a strange rustling behind her. Not knowing what to do, she abruptly turned toward the sound and saw two guards step out of the gate after them.

Och, it makes sense now!

Ciara sighed, somewhat relieved.

The three girls made their way into the forest. Lillie and Hannah walked ahead of her, chatting constantly.

Curiously, she was feeling anxious about being outside. What if her father’s men spotted her? Her red hair was a dead giveaway.

Different thoughts swirled in her mind as she walked, leading to one resolution: she needed a plan; a plan that would assure she would be able to stay at the MacDonald keep for as long as possible.

“Ciara!” A soft call drew her out of her thoughts, and she swiftly turned toward Lillie’s voice. She had been so lost in her head that she had fallen greatly behind. “What are ye doing all the way over there? Come walk beside us!”

“Och, of course,” Ciara mumbled loudly, and she made hurried steps until she reached them and gave them an awkward smile. “I apologize. I got lost in the scenery. The forest is quite beautiful.”

“It is.” Lillie smiled at her and turned back to face Hannah as they began walking deeper into the woodland.

“So, as I was saying… It’s unfortunate that Darragh couldnae come with us, ye ken,” Lillie said. She turned to Ciara, who was standing by her side, “My brother was supposed to be among the guards escorting us today. He had other duties to attend. A meeting with the council, I presume.”

Ciara observed Hannah blush at the mention of Darragh, a shy smile on her face. It seemed there were some feelings at play. How lovely that would be; finding love. She smiled a bittersweet smile.

The keep grounds were beautiful, and the castle was just as welcoming. Everyone was content. Ciara imagined what it would be like to be the woman who would eventually become Aidan’s wife. She was certain he would be a very good husband to whomever he chose. The idea of marrying him was comforting. She was certain he would take proper care of her and—

Wait! All of Ciara’s thoughts ceased instantly. It hit her all at once. That was it. She just had to become Aidan’s wife!

If she could marry Aidan, her father would not be able to take her away from the safety of the MacDonald keep. No matter what!

Why hadn’t she thought of this earlier? It was perfect. Even for Aidan! If he married her, she would become the perfect wife for him. Besides, as MacNeil’s only child, she was sure to inherit a portion of his lands.

It was the perfect plan. But at what cost? Nay... This isnae selfish. Aidan will benefit from the betrothal as well. All she needed to do was figure out a way to explain her idea to him.

As thoughts raced through Ciara's mind, she absentmindedly started picking plants when she heard a rustle nearby. Her senses were immediately heightened. She turned quickly and narrowed her eyes.

What was that? An animal?

And why did she all of a sudden feel so apprehensive?

She attempted to calm her nerves and distract herself by continuing to pick the herbs. But for some reason, her attention seemed to be drawn to the bushes where she had heard the rustling. Instinctively, she turned back squinted once more, taking a closer look.

She spotted two dark eyes staring right back at her.

Human eyes.